Ivan: The Remarkable True Story of the Shopping Mall Gorilla: Ivan the Gorilla was brought from Africa to a Tacoma, Washington mall to attract shoppers. Eventually, after public outcry, Ivan was moved to a Zoo in Atlanta. From the Congo to America, and from a local business attraction to a national symbol of animal welfare, Ivan the Shopping Mall Gorilla traveled an astonishing distance in miles and in impact. This is the true story and includes photographs and facts.