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Screenwise Verdict
This is the 'palate cleanser' of children’s literature. In a world of loud, fast-paced media, Applegate gives us a quiet, beautiful story about a gorilla becoming a father.
It’s not trying to sell your kid anything or keep them addicted to a screen; it’s just a damn good book. If your kid has read the others in the series, this is a non-negotiable must-read. If they haven't, start with 'The One and Only Ivan' and work your way here.
Age Fit
Perfect for ages 7 to 12. It’s sophisticated enough for middle schoolers but accessible enough for a second grader to read with a little help.
WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
96
It’s a heartfelt exploration of fatherhood and legacy through the eyes of a silverback gorilla. The tone is emotionally mature but gentle, modeling deep kindness and the importance of kinship.
Imaginative
89
Katherine Applegate’s signature first-person animal perspective remains a masterclass in empathy-building and creative narration. It invites kids to see the world through a non-human lens without being cheesy.
Safe
98
Standard middle-grade fare with no red flags. While the series touches on Ivan's past trauma (captivity), this installment focuses on the positive arrival of his new twins.
Enriching
92
Teaches emotional intelligence, the complexities of family dynamics, and a subtle respect for wildlife conservation. It’s the kind of book that makes a kid think about their own place in their family tree.
Parent Info
✓
Why It Might Be Great
Provides much-needed closure for fans who have followed Ivan since his days in the shopping mall circus.
The short, poetic chapters make it an easy win for reluctant readers or kids who get overwhelmed by big blocks of text.
It tackles big themes like 'what makes a family' without being preachy or boring.
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What to Watch For
The plot is more 'slice of life' than 'action-packed adventure,' so kids looking for a thriller might find it a bit slow.
Brief mentions of Ivan’s past may stir up questions about animal captivity and his old life at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall.
Conversation Starters
"Ivan spent most of his life alone—how do you think that changes the way he looks at his new babies?"
"What do you think makes a family 'a family'? Is it just being related, or is it something else?"
"If you were a gorilla living in a sanctuary, what would be the best and worst parts of your day?"
