This article outlines an integrated STEAM project based on "The One and Only Ivan" by Katherine Applegate (2012). Elementary students focused on real-world, authentic problems presented in this 2013 Newbery Award-winning novel. The novel deals with difficult issues such as the humane treatment of animals, and has a powerful message of friendship and hope. The project discussed in this article used a "One Book, One Community" format--a reading program that attempts to get everyone in a city or community to read and discuss the same book. The goals are to build a sense of community, promote literacy, and can include activities like book discussion groups, author visits, lectures and watching the movie (if there is one). It has become so popular that school librarians now integrate it into curriculum. Five Chicago elementary schools, in a collaboration with the Lincoln Park Zoo, communicated using Skype and a blog. Teachers shared lesson ideas between schools, and students from all of the schools met with each other during field trips. All grades were included in this project.