The One and Only Ivan Chapters 37-40 Summary

introductions, stella and ruby, home of the one and only ivan, art lesson

  • Ruby introduces herself to Ivan and Bob, and she wants to know about everything. Where are the other elephants? Are there more gorillas? Where are Ivan's mom and dad?
  • Ruby is an orphan whose parents and family were killed by humans; none of the other animals are surprised to hear this.
  • Stella takes Ruby like she is her own child, giving her all the affection and attention a baby elephant deserves. It is a beautiful thing for the others to witness, and Ivan has never seen Stella, or any other animal, so happy in all of his life.
  • Hoping Ruby will bring in more customers, Mack adds a baby elephant to the sign outside, next to the image of the One and Only Ivan.
  • Ruby's stream of questions forces Ivan to have to explain things such as the fake nature scene on his wall, or what art is. 
  • Ivan says making art makes him feel quiet inside, and he has another memory of his father.