Because of Winn-Dixie
Kate DiCamillo
Like Ivan, this story is narrated by a young voice who finds friendship in an unlikely companion, a stray dog. DiCamillo balances humour and loneliness in the same tender way Applegate does.
12 books to read next
Books Like The One and Only Ivan
If you loved The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
Readers who love The One and Only Ivan often respond to its gentle, funny narrator, a gorilla who notices small things and speaks plainly about big injustices. The book is short and quick, with a first-person voice that mixes humour and sadness. Its themes are friendship across species, the power of making art, and the hope that a life can change for the better. Its pace is brisk, its tone warm, and it never talks down to young readers.
Animal narrators with heart
Wonderstruck
Brian Selznick
Its quiet, observant tone and focus on art and wonder echo Ivan's love of drawing. The illustrated pages mirror Ivan's way of seeing the world through images.
Charlotte's Web
E. B. White, Kate DiCamillo
A classic animal friendship story told with warmth and humour, where a clever animal character works to protect a vulnerable friend. It shares Ivan's blend of gentle comedy and sorrow.
Stories of rescue and friendship
Crenshaw
Katherine Applegate
Applegate's own book about a boy and his imaginary friend facing hard times. It has the same emotional honesty and quiet hope, though it is a different story.
Rain Reign
Ann M. Martin
A girl and her bond with an animal help her face a difficult world. Like Ivan, the narrator sees the world in a distinctive way that makes the emotional moments land.
Wonder
R. J. Palacio
A moving story about kindness and seeing others clearly, told from several viewpoints. Readers who loved Ivan's compassion for Ruby will find the same empathy here.
Art and seeing differently
The Crossover
Kwame Alexander
Verse and rhythm carry this story of a family and their sense of self, much as Ivan's art shapes how he sees his world. Its vivid, musical voice suits readers who enjoyed Ivan's way with words.
Wolf Hollow
Lauren Wolk
A thoughtful, emotionally serious story told by a young narrator who learns to see the people around her differently. It shares Ivan's focus on fairness and courage.
Out of My Mind
Sharon M. Draper
A determined narrator who sees more than others expect shows the world through her own eyes. Its honest portrayal of a child's inner life echoes Ivan's perspective.
A lighter read
The Wild Robot
Peter Brown
A survival story about an unexpected creature finding a place in nature, with clear humour and tenderness. Its short chapters and gentle wit suit readers who enjoyed Ivan's easy narration.
Flora & Ulysses
Kate DiCamillo
A comic, illustrated tale about a squirrel with unexpected powers and a warm friendship. It has the same playful energy and affection for its animal characters as Ivan.
The Tale of Despereaux
Kate DiCamillo, Timothy B. Ering
A witty, storytelling-driven fable with a small hero who shows great courage. Its narrator speaks directly to readers, much as Ivan does, and its heart is generous.
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