I think I need to read more middle grade fiction, because there's so much fantastic writing to be found. This story, told so beautifully and simply from the viewpoint of Ivan the gorilla, was heartbreaking and, ultimately, heartwarming. I can't wait to share it with my kids when they get a bit older and are learning themselves about the central theme of this story: principles. "...a belief that helps you know what's right or wrong." p. 194