The one and only ivan

One School, One Book

Arrowwood Community School 2022

“One School, One Book” is a novel program in that children at all grade levels will all be listening to the same book. Strange or daring as that may seem, it actually makes sound educational sense. Reading professionals recommend reading material out loud that is beyond a child’s own reading level, and we also believe it is wonderful to read chapter books with your older children, even when they are able to read by themselves.

We have selected a title that can be followed and enjoyed by younger students, but that will still captivate and stimulate older children. Feel free to stop and discuss the vocabulary as you read – it is an important aspect of this story. Even if your child does not understand all the words, it is a great opportunity to have rich discussions, especially with this particular piece of literature.


Audio versions of each reading section are available on Google Classroom for The One and Only Ivan. Students know where to find this.

Parent Letter One and Only Ivan - Google Docs.pdf