Ivan is a silverback gorilla who lives in a shopping mall, where he is the main attraction. From inside his enclosure, Ivan watches humans pass by and spends his days with his friends — Stella, an elderly elephant, and Bob, a stray dog.

Ivan doesn’t remember much about his life in the jungle, and at first, he is content with the small world he knows. But when a young elephant called Ruby arrives at the mall, Ivan begins to see his situation differently. Ruby’s fear and sadness awaken memories Ivan has long buried, and he makes a promise to protect her.

Told from Ivan’s unique perspective, this powerful story explores friendship, kindness, freedom, and the responsibility we have to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Inspired by a true story, the novel encourages readers to think deeply about empathy, captivity, and hope — all through beautifully spare and thoughtful language.