I decided to read this book because my daughter was reading it for school. She's a third grader, and this is the first time that I'm aware of that she's read a novel at school. I was excited!

This is a truly wonderful book. It's often quite sad, but the best books, the ones that really touch you, usually are. It really feels like it's written from the perspective of the gorilla. If I thought that gorillas could actually talk and write, I would believe that this was the gorilla's actual journal. I found myself briefly wondering how the author learned this story from the gorilla before I reminded myself that gorillas can't actually talk, and this gorilla's internal dialogue is a fantasy.

It's also written in such a way that it seems outside of time. The story is probably intended to have taken place in the recent past, but it never hints at a time period and feels very timeless.

I saw quotes saying that this book was a great animal book in the tradition of Charlotte's Web. It exceeded expectations. ( )

This book has heavy "Charlotte's Web" vibes. Not only are the stories similar by subject but also in theme and character motivations. There's a lot to like about the first person Gorilla perspective. The gentle nature and protective desire of a silverback are present through everything.

I'd recommend this book to the same audience that enjoys Charlotte's Web, Watership Down, and other animal-centric metaphor stories. It fits right in. ( )

3-5, Level 4
Awards/Honors: Newbery Medal

Independent Reading Level: Grades 4-6 (ages 9-12) Guided Reading Level: T
Awards/Honors: Newbery Medal (2013)
ALA Notable Children's Book
Booklist Editors Choice
Junior Library Guild Selection

Independent Reading Levels: Grades 3-5
Awards: Newberry Medal (2013), ALA Notable Children's Book (2013), and School Library Journal Best Book of the Year (2013)