I can’t say as I really enjoyed the writing style. The author tended to repeat the same phrases over and over, and it often made it feel like the plot wasn’t really going anywhere. However, this writing style is really what creates the atmosphere of the book, drawing you into the bayous of Texas.
This is a good, literary book. I can see plenty of merit in it. The story is well-written and well-told. But I didn’t find it especially gripping, and I honestly don’t think many kids would either. It’s almost as if the author is trying too hard to be profound.
Why would kids enjoy this book? Good question. The kittens are cute and all, but I honestly would have been bored reading this book as a child.
Why would adults enjoy this book? The writing. Appelt’s writing is musical and really paints a picture of the world she is trying to create.
Ivan narrates his own story, and that’s what makes this book so powerful. We see the world through his eyes; we see humans through his eyes – the good and the bad. We see the moment when he takes charge of his own future. We see the love he has for his friends. Ivan reminds us of the glimpses of humanity that every animal has.
Why would kids enjoy this book? The characters: Bob the stray dog’s commentary on the happenings in the zoo is always amusing. Ruby is adorable and relatable, elephant though she may be.
Why would adults enjoy this book? Adults will get more out of the treatment of animals message, as well as Ivan’s backstory. There is a lot of wisdom in Ivan’s view of the world and humans that can be found in this book.
Why would kids enjoy this book? It’s creepy! It takes place in a graveyard, for goodness’ sake. No zombies, but plenty of ghosts to enjoy and get to know.
Why would adults enjoy this book? The atmosphere that Gaiman creates really draws you in, and actually makes this book less scary than it could have been. Being friends with ghosts that lived hundreds of years ago means that there are snippets of history dropped in here and there. And Bod is a wonderful kid, always trying to do right for himself and those around him.