The first time you see art created for your manuscript is like nothing else. How much of the art do you see before the book publishes? The artwork of Ivan and Bob are so integral to both books. Still, they may sound different, but deep down, Ivan and Bob are both softies at heart. I wanted to be sure he had his own unique sound. He’s a poet, a philosopher, a guy who’s accepted the worst of human behavior and learned to move on.īob, on the other hand, is a tough-guy mutt, stre et-smart and sarcastic. You can do all the research in the world, but at the end of the day, you’re taking a leap into the unknown. I’m always aware that when you write from the point of view of a different species, anthropomorphism is inevitable. What are the challenges of writing these characters? And how was writing Bob’s voice different than Ivan’s?

You have a great deal of experience when it comes to expressing the voice of nonhuman narrators ( The One and Only Ivan Wishtree). And they have plenty of new stories to share. They may have a few more gray hairs or wrinkles, but they still sound exactly the same. Was it difficult returning to that world? Or are the characters always with you? It’s been years since you published Ivan. Want to hear more about Bob and Ivan and meet the author? Be sure to tune in for the live webcast next Tuesday. SLJ recently caught up with the author to hear about returning to the world of the lovable gorilla and his friends. The One and Only Bob, Katherine Applegate's anxiously awaited sequel to the Newbery Medal–winning The One and Only Ivan, comes out on May 5.

One and only bob book