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The One and Only Ruby

Description:

An instant #1 New York Times bestseller!

From beloved powerhouse author Katherine Applegate comes The One and Only Ruby, starring the adorable baby elephant from the Newbery Medal-winning modern classic The One and Only Ivan and its bestselling sequel, The One and Only Bob.

Ruby’s story picks up a few months after the events of The One and Only Bob. Now living in a wildlife sanctuary, Ruby’s caretaker from the elephant orphanage in Africa where she grew up is visiting. Seeing him again brings back a flood of memories both happy and sad of her life before the circus, and she recounts the time she spent in the African savannah to Ivan and Bob.

In the timeless way that only Katherine Applegate could craft, this highly anticipated novel in verse is the perfect mix of heartfelt and humorous, poignant and sweet. Artist Patricia Castelao returns to the world of Ivan and his friends with gorgeous black-and-white interior illustrations to complete the story.

The One and Only Ruby features first-person narrative; author's use of literary devices (personification, imagery); and story elements (plot, character development, perspective).

This middle grade novel is an excellent choice for tween readers in grades 5 to 8, for independent reading, homeschooling, and sharing in the classroom.

Don’t miss the film adaptation of The One and Only Ivan, now streaming on Disney+!


Editorial Reviews

Review

"The story leads readers to ponder the ecological devastation of the ivory trade, the difficulties of being torn from your homeland at an early age, and the horrors of many circuses and zoos. But countering that is also the joy of friendship, humans' kindness toward animals, and the joy of just being a kid.... For fans of Ivan as well as animals in general, this is a special sequel." — Booklist (starred review)

"Applegate yet again shows her ability to explore grief and its lifelong ripples with a subtle tenderness. The direct narrative tone gives depth to her personality: Ruby can be as mischievous and playful as she is stubborn and sometimes angry. Ivan, Bob, and Ruby all share terrible experiences at the hands of ignorant and even cruel humans, and while Applegate shows their current caretakers as compassionate people, she never offers redemption to those that hurt the friends and acknowledges the traumas that will stay with the trio for a long time." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Ruby’s playful yet sage voice traces the events that brought her from her unspecified African savanna home to the mall where she and Ivan previously lived, and, at last, to the sanctuary. With her trademark blend of frankness and hope, Applegate details dire circumstances facing elephants in the wild, including climate change and poaching, while elucidating their fierce loyalty and highlighting, via the three protagonists’ unforgettable bond, myriad interspecies relationships." — Publishers Weekly

"An elephant glossary and Castelao’s charming, illustrated guide to elephant body language help immerse readers in Ruby’s world. Goofy, playful, and mischievous Ruby is fully dimensional, as she has shown her bravery during the many hardships of her young life. Applegate deftly tempers themes of grief and loss with compassion and humor as Ruby finds her place in the herd.... Certain to steal hearts." — Kirkus Reviews

"Features Applegate’s trademark verse-prose; appealing spot illustrations; and the hallmark themes of the series: adversity, trauma, friendship, resilience, and hope."
Horn Book Magazine

PRAISE FOR The One and Only Bob: "Good dog Bob. Great to have a best friend.” — Danny DeVito

"Bob proves to everyone (and finally himself) that there is a big heart in that tiny chest…and a brave one too. Applegate picks up where her Newbery Medal winner left off, and fans will be overjoyed to ride along in the head of lovable, self-deprecating Bob on his storm-tossed adventure. His wry doggy observations and attitude are pitch perfect." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"Ricocheting between entertainment and poignancy, the dog’s musings on his past and present give way to an urgent chronicle of survival. Applegate deepens the suspense (while, ingeniously, amplifying the humor) with the appearance of Bob’s long-lost sister. The novel’s fluid meshing of loyalty, forgiveness, and trust will leave readers hoping that the author has more one-and-only stories to tell." — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"In this story of true friendship, hope, and courage, Bob learns to appreciate and cherish those he loves. Driven by favorite characters from The One and Only Ivan, Bob’s story is delightfully heartfelt and adventurous. Castelao’s illustrations add additional beauty to the story. Readers will be lining up to read this sequel." — School Library Journal

"Explore[s] themes of forgiveness, redemption, and heroism. A playful canine glossary and expressive spot illustrations further enhance the appeal of this sequel." — The Horn Book

"Bob supplies a sharp, lively voice that young readers will enjoy. Fans of the first book will love catching up with cherished friends, and newcomers, too, will enjoy this heartfelt story of survival." — Booklist

"Much like Bob himself, this book has an appealing mix of frenetic energy and somber contemplation. Commentary on animal welfare and climate change is carefully woven into the narrative, giving readers food for thought but never overwhelming what is ultimately a tale of friendship and forgiveness." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Applegate writes that she was delighted when she heard DeVito would be the voice of Bob in the upcoming film adaptation of Ivan, and we agree: DeVito's voice is Bob’s. This is a heartfelt and entertaining listen." — Booklist (starred review of audio edition)

PRAISE FOR The One and Only Ivan: “Will capture readers’ hearts and never let go. A must have.” — School Library Journal (starred review)

“Animal-loving youngsters and their adults will find plenty of food for thought in Ivan’s extraordinary story.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“Exemplifies everything youngsters need to know about courage.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Discover an animal hero that will take his place with other courageous and beloved animals such as Babe, Mrs. Frisby, Charlotte and Wilbur. Adults reading this aloud with children will find it just as rewarding.” — Shelf Awareness

“Important.” — The Horn Book

The One and Only Ivan will break your heart—and then, against all odds, mend it again. Such a gentle fantasy is rare; such an evocation of our need to grow, to be free, to become our best selves, is rarer still. In cheering for Ivan and his friends, we cheer for our own humanity and our own possibilities. Read this.” — Gary D. Schmidt, Newbery Honor author of The Wednesday Wars

“A beautifully written, intelligent and brave book. You will never look at the relationship of humans and animals in the same way again. Quite simply, this story is life changing.” — Patricia MacLachlan, Newbery Medal-winning author of Sarah, Plain and Tall

“Kindness, and its ability to change lives, shines through on every single page of this book. Through the eyes of a silverback gorilla, the one and only Ivan, we learn about the power of art, friendship and love. Katherine Applegate’s beautiful, life-affirming story will soar directly from Ivan’s heart into your own. Read it out loud. Read it alone. Read it.” — Kathi Appelt, Newbery Honor author of The Underneath

“Both hearbreaking and uplifting, this brave, moving story is perfect for anyone who loves animals and has ever wondering what they think about life inside a cage.” — BookPage

About the Author

Katherine Applegate is the Newbery Medal–winning and #1 New York Times bestselling author of numerous books for young readers, including the One and Only series, the Endling series, CrenshawWishtree, the Roscoe Riley Rules chapter books series, and the Animorphs series. She lives with her family in Nevada.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book

G. · August 2, 2024

The One and Only Ruby is a delightful children’s book that captivated both me and my child from start to finish. The story is heartwarming and beautifully written, making it an enjoyable read for both kids and adults. Ruby’s adventures are engaging and filled with valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and kindness. This book is a wonderful addition to any child’s library, and I highly recommend it for its charming story and positive messages.

5.0 out of 5 stars It a family story

S. · July 24, 2025

Love the book

5.0 out of 5 stars Kids love it!

L. · August 23, 2025

The kids in my 4th grade class love this series and were eager to read this book! It was a hit!

5.0 out of 5 stars Heartwarming story of sweet Ruby

E.W. · June 9, 2023

They say that an elephant has a great memory. Ruby shows us that in this book, as she tells her story of her what happened to her before she arrived at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall.Top Things to look forward to as you read this book:* Elephants* Growing Up* Finding a FamilyMy children and I enjoyed this book. We felt a lot of emotions as Ruby shared her story with Ivan and Bob. What she went through in Africa and later when she arrived at the Mall. This novel was beautifully written. It touches on hard subjects like, poaching and drought conditions in Africa. But I feel that the way Katherine Applegate wrote it was appropriate for children.Definitely a book we will add to our shelves with the other two books in this series. I hope it doesn't stop here with Ruby's story. My children and now I, can't get enough of these stories.

5.0 out of 5 stars Worth Reading More Than Once!

T. · September 2, 2023

This book really surprised me. I didn't think it was possible to like a third book in a series as much as the first one. I really like how Ruby thinks, and a lot of the things she says are pretty funny. It also surprises me when I read a children's book and find some pretty profound statements. I guess I am just surprised because it makes you wonder if kids will pick up on it. I think it is a good idea to relax and unwind with a children's book every now and then. I am happy to say that this book truly delivers in those areas. This is also a book that I would be more than happy to read again.

4.0 out of 5 stars Informative and Entertaining

P.S. · June 27, 2025

This the third book in the series. It was a little slow at times, but there were also some valuable lessons. This story picks up where the second book left off, but readers who haven't read the first two will still be able to enjoy it. Ruby is a small African elephant who has had a challenging life. He recounts much of his past while talking to his friends Ivan the Gorilla and Bob the Dog. Ruby becomes an orphan after his mother is shot by poachers. He then is moved to an animal sanctuary in Africa, to a mall in America, and finally to a zoo where he is now. He longs for his old life in the wild, though he also feels cared for and loved at the zoo.The other elephants are excited to celebrate Ruby's Tusk day, a sign he is growing up. Mostly this brings up bad memories because Ruby remembers when his mother was hunted for her tusks. He contemplates running away because he wants to avoid his expected speech.Readers will get the sense that author Katherine Applegate wrote this story in large part because of the cruel treatment of elephants in circuses. One of the skillfull aspects of the story is that Applegate teaches us about elephants while still writing an entertaining piece of fiction.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Third Book

S.K.S. · October 13, 2024

The One and Only Ruby is the third book in the four book series written by Katherine Applegate. The book tells the story of Ruby, the elephant we meet in the first book, “The One and Only Ivan.” Ruby was a very small elephant when we was brought to the “The Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade”. She lived there with a larger elephant named Stella, Ivan the Gorilla and their friend Bob the dog.”Ruby now lives in the zoo next to Ivan. She is not happy that she has tusks, even if they are small. She dreads having to give a speech about what Tuskday means to her. She sees no use for tusks. Maybe this is because she has seen what happens to elephants when poachers want those tusks. As she tries to work her way through her feelings leading up to Tuskday she tells her story to Ivan, his mate Kinyani, and Bob. Through this story we learn about Ruby and her life in Africa and the herd she was a part of. We learn of her joys and her sadness. Along the way we see Ruby mature and grow and actually become a part of the herd she is with at the zoo.I was so excited when this book came out. Just as excited as when I read the first two books, “The One and Only Ivan”, and “The One and only Bob”. This book, like the others is an emotional read. It is one that I will never forget.

5.0 out of 5 stars Muy bueno

V. · October 15, 2025

Mi hijo quería leerlo y le gustó muchísimo .Excelente calidad !!!

Touching story

V. · July 17, 2025

Love all these books!

A good book to read.😆

C. · May 26, 2023

Cute characters in this story! Their friendship is really amazing ❤️ A very good book for reading. Recommend to all😆

Eine herzerwärmende Geschichte

A.@.W. · August 13, 2025

Im dritten Band hat Ruby ihren Auftritt. Das kleine Elefantenmädchen ist neugierig und voller Tatendrang und hat sich gut in ihre neue Herde im Zoo eingelebt. Allerdings, wie die meisten Kinder, ist sie verspielt und nicht immer einer Meinung mit den Anweisungen der Älteren.In ihrer frischen, naiv-liebevollen Art erzählt sie von sich und ihrem großen "Tusk-Day", der Tag, an dem ihre Stoßzähne durch die Haut brechen (also ähnlich wie die Milchzähne bei Menschenbabys), allerdings ist Ruby gar nicht erpicht auf eine große Feier. Es geht um das Erwachsenwerden, dem sie mit unterschiedlichen Gefühlen entgegen siehtAuch über Elefanten lernt man hier so manches, denn Ruby hat, wie alle Elefanten, ein sehr gutes Gedächtnis und so erfahren endlich auch Ivan und Bob, wie es dazu kam, dass sie aus der Savanne in den Kafig der Mall kam. Es geht hier darum, über Dinge zu sprechen, sie mit anderen zu teilen und zu erkennen, dass man dadurch manches für sich abschließen kann, auch wenn es natürlich immer ein Teil von einem bleibt. Und sich auf diejenigen zu konzentrieren, die für einen da sind und einem guttun.Aber auch um das Erwachsenwerden und die Zugehörigkeit, dass man zueinanderfindet, sich zuhört, geliebt und verstanden fühlt und man selbst sein darf.Morning ist like a gift you get to open every single day.Zitat Seite 50Liebevoll und mit viel Empathie geschrieben - für die Tiere und das Miteinander <3

Good

M.B. · April 16, 2025

Great book

Great book!

J.S. · March 31, 2024

My daughter read “the one and only Ivan” and “the one and only bob” so getting this book was a no brainer! She loved all three books equally. Makes a perfect gift if hardcover!

The One and Only Ruby

Product ID: U0063080087
Condition: New

4.8

AED9431

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Hardcover
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

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The One and Only Ruby

Product ID: U0063080087
Condition: New

4.8

The One and Only Ruby-0
Type: Hardcover

AED9431

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

An instant #1 New York Times bestseller!

From beloved powerhouse author Katherine Applegate comes The One and Only Ruby, starring the adorable baby elephant from the Newbery Medal-winning modern classic The One and Only Ivan and its bestselling sequel, The One and Only Bob.

Ruby’s story picks up a few months after the events of The One and Only Bob. Now living in a wildlife sanctuary, Ruby’s caretaker from the elephant orphanage in Africa where she grew up is visiting. Seeing him again brings back a flood of memories both happy and sad of her life before the circus, and she recounts the time she spent in the African savannah to Ivan and Bob.

In the timeless way that only Katherine Applegate could craft, this highly anticipated novel in verse is the perfect mix of heartfelt and humorous, poignant and sweet. Artist Patricia Castelao returns to the world of Ivan and his friends with gorgeous black-and-white interior illustrations to complete the story.

The One and Only Ruby features first-person narrative; author's use of literary devices (personification, imagery); and story elements (plot, character development, perspective).

This middle grade novel is an excellent choice for tween readers in grades 5 to 8, for independent reading, homeschooling, and sharing in the classroom.

Don’t miss the film adaptation of The One and Only Ivan, now streaming on Disney+!


Editorial Reviews

Review

"The story leads readers to ponder the ecological devastation of the ivory trade, the difficulties of being torn from your homeland at an early age, and the horrors of many circuses and zoos. But countering that is also the joy of friendship, humans' kindness toward animals, and the joy of just being a kid.... For fans of Ivan as well as animals in general, this is a special sequel." — Booklist (starred review)

"Applegate yet again shows her ability to explore grief and its lifelong ripples with a subtle tenderness. The direct narrative tone gives depth to her personality: Ruby can be as mischievous and playful as she is stubborn and sometimes angry. Ivan, Bob, and Ruby all share terrible experiences at the hands of ignorant and even cruel humans, and while Applegate shows their current caretakers as compassionate people, she never offers redemption to those that hurt the friends and acknowledges the traumas that will stay with the trio for a long time." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Ruby’s playful yet sage voice traces the events that brought her from her unspecified African savanna home to the mall where she and Ivan previously lived, and, at last, to the sanctuary. With her trademark blend of frankness and hope, Applegate details dire circumstances facing elephants in the wild, including climate change and poaching, while elucidating their fierce loyalty and highlighting, via the three protagonists’ unforgettable bond, myriad interspecies relationships." — Publishers Weekly

"An elephant glossary and Castelao’s charming, illustrated guide to elephant body language help immerse readers in Ruby’s world. Goofy, playful, and mischievous Ruby is fully dimensional, as she has shown her bravery during the many hardships of her young life. Applegate deftly tempers themes of grief and loss with compassion and humor as Ruby finds her place in the herd.... Certain to steal hearts." — Kirkus Reviews

"Features Applegate’s trademark verse-prose; appealing spot illustrations; and the hallmark themes of the series: adversity, trauma, friendship, resilience, and hope."
Horn Book Magazine

PRAISE FOR The One and Only Bob: "Good dog Bob. Great to have a best friend.” — Danny DeVito

"Bob proves to everyone (and finally himself) that there is a big heart in that tiny chest…and a brave one too. Applegate picks up where her Newbery Medal winner left off, and fans will be overjoyed to ride along in the head of lovable, self-deprecating Bob on his storm-tossed adventure. His wry doggy observations and attitude are pitch perfect." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"Ricocheting between entertainment and poignancy, the dog’s musings on his past and present give way to an urgent chronicle of survival. Applegate deepens the suspense (while, ingeniously, amplifying the humor) with the appearance of Bob’s long-lost sister. The novel’s fluid meshing of loyalty, forgiveness, and trust will leave readers hoping that the author has more one-and-only stories to tell." — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"In this story of true friendship, hope, and courage, Bob learns to appreciate and cherish those he loves. Driven by favorite characters from The One and Only Ivan, Bob’s story is delightfully heartfelt and adventurous. Castelao’s illustrations add additional beauty to the story. Readers will be lining up to read this sequel." — School Library Journal

"Explore[s] themes of forgiveness, redemption, and heroism. A playful canine glossary and expressive spot illustrations further enhance the appeal of this sequel." — The Horn Book

"Bob supplies a sharp, lively voice that young readers will enjoy. Fans of the first book will love catching up with cherished friends, and newcomers, too, will enjoy this heartfelt story of survival." — Booklist

"Much like Bob himself, this book has an appealing mix of frenetic energy and somber contemplation. Commentary on animal welfare and climate change is carefully woven into the narrative, giving readers food for thought but never overwhelming what is ultimately a tale of friendship and forgiveness." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

"Applegate writes that she was delighted when she heard DeVito would be the voice of Bob in the upcoming film adaptation of Ivan, and we agree: DeVito's voice is Bob’s. This is a heartfelt and entertaining listen." — Booklist (starred review of audio edition)

PRAISE FOR The One and Only Ivan: “Will capture readers’ hearts and never let go. A must have.” — School Library Journal (starred review)

“Animal-loving youngsters and their adults will find plenty of food for thought in Ivan’s extraordinary story.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“Exemplifies everything youngsters need to know about courage.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Discover an animal hero that will take his place with other courageous and beloved animals such as Babe, Mrs. Frisby, Charlotte and Wilbur. Adults reading this aloud with children will find it just as rewarding.” — Shelf Awareness

“Important.” — The Horn Book

The One and Only Ivan will break your heart—and then, against all odds, mend it again. Such a gentle fantasy is rare; such an evocation of our need to grow, to be free, to become our best selves, is rarer still. In cheering for Ivan and his friends, we cheer for our own humanity and our own possibilities. Read this.” — Gary D. Schmidt, Newbery Honor author of The Wednesday Wars

“A beautifully written, intelligent and brave book. You will never look at the relationship of humans and animals in the same way again. Quite simply, this story is life changing.” — Patricia MacLachlan, Newbery Medal-winning author of Sarah, Plain and Tall

“Kindness, and its ability to change lives, shines through on every single page of this book. Through the eyes of a silverback gorilla, the one and only Ivan, we learn about the power of art, friendship and love. Katherine Applegate’s beautiful, life-affirming story will soar directly from Ivan’s heart into your own. Read it out loud. Read it alone. Read it.” — Kathi Appelt, Newbery Honor author of The Underneath

“Both hearbreaking and uplifting, this brave, moving story is perfect for anyone who loves animals and has ever wondering what they think about life inside a cage.” — BookPage

About the Author

Katherine Applegate is the Newbery Medal–winning and #1 New York Times bestselling author of numerous books for young readers, including the One and Only series, the Endling series, CrenshawWishtree, the Roscoe Riley Rules chapter books series, and the Animorphs series. She lives with her family in Nevada.

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book

G. · August 2, 2024

The One and Only Ruby is a delightful children’s book that captivated both me and my child from start to finish. The story is heartwarming and beautifully written, making it an enjoyable read for both kids and adults. Ruby’s adventures are engaging and filled with valuable lessons about friendship, bravery, and kindness. This book is a wonderful addition to any child’s library, and I highly recommend it for its charming story and positive messages.

5.0 out of 5 stars It a family story

S. · July 24, 2025

Love the book

5.0 out of 5 stars Kids love it!

L. · August 23, 2025

The kids in my 4th grade class love this series and were eager to read this book! It was a hit!

5.0 out of 5 stars Heartwarming story of sweet Ruby

E.W. · June 9, 2023

They say that an elephant has a great memory. Ruby shows us that in this book, as she tells her story of her what happened to her before she arrived at the Exit 8 Big Top Mall.Top Things to look forward to as you read this book:* Elephants* Growing Up* Finding a FamilyMy children and I enjoyed this book. We felt a lot of emotions as Ruby shared her story with Ivan and Bob. What she went through in Africa and later when she arrived at the Mall. This novel was beautifully written. It touches on hard subjects like, poaching and drought conditions in Africa. But I feel that the way Katherine Applegate wrote it was appropriate for children.Definitely a book we will add to our shelves with the other two books in this series. I hope it doesn't stop here with Ruby's story. My children and now I, can't get enough of these stories.

5.0 out of 5 stars Worth Reading More Than Once!

T. · September 2, 2023

This book really surprised me. I didn't think it was possible to like a third book in a series as much as the first one. I really like how Ruby thinks, and a lot of the things she says are pretty funny. It also surprises me when I read a children's book and find some pretty profound statements. I guess I am just surprised because it makes you wonder if kids will pick up on it. I think it is a good idea to relax and unwind with a children's book every now and then. I am happy to say that this book truly delivers in those areas. This is also a book that I would be more than happy to read again.

4.0 out of 5 stars Informative and Entertaining

P.S. · June 27, 2025

This the third book in the series. It was a little slow at times, but there were also some valuable lessons. This story picks up where the second book left off, but readers who haven't read the first two will still be able to enjoy it. Ruby is a small African elephant who has had a challenging life. He recounts much of his past while talking to his friends Ivan the Gorilla and Bob the Dog. Ruby becomes an orphan after his mother is shot by poachers. He then is moved to an animal sanctuary in Africa, to a mall in America, and finally to a zoo where he is now. He longs for his old life in the wild, though he also feels cared for and loved at the zoo.The other elephants are excited to celebrate Ruby's Tusk day, a sign he is growing up. Mostly this brings up bad memories because Ruby remembers when his mother was hunted for her tusks. He contemplates running away because he wants to avoid his expected speech.Readers will get the sense that author Katherine Applegate wrote this story in large part because of the cruel treatment of elephants in circuses. One of the skillfull aspects of the story is that Applegate teaches us about elephants while still writing an entertaining piece of fiction.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Third Book

S.K.S. · October 13, 2024

The One and Only Ruby is the third book in the four book series written by Katherine Applegate. The book tells the story of Ruby, the elephant we meet in the first book, “The One and Only Ivan.” Ruby was a very small elephant when we was brought to the “The Exit 8 Big Top Mall and Video Arcade”. She lived there with a larger elephant named Stella, Ivan the Gorilla and their friend Bob the dog.”Ruby now lives in the zoo next to Ivan. She is not happy that she has tusks, even if they are small. She dreads having to give a speech about what Tuskday means to her. She sees no use for tusks. Maybe this is because she has seen what happens to elephants when poachers want those tusks. As she tries to work her way through her feelings leading up to Tuskday she tells her story to Ivan, his mate Kinyani, and Bob. Through this story we learn about Ruby and her life in Africa and the herd she was a part of. We learn of her joys and her sadness. Along the way we see Ruby mature and grow and actually become a part of the herd she is with at the zoo.I was so excited when this book came out. Just as excited as when I read the first two books, “The One and Only Ivan”, and “The One and only Bob”. This book, like the others is an emotional read. It is one that I will never forget.

5.0 out of 5 stars Muy bueno

V. · October 15, 2025

Mi hijo quería leerlo y le gustó muchísimo .Excelente calidad !!!

Touching story

V. · July 17, 2025

Love all these books!

A good book to read.😆

C. · May 26, 2023

Cute characters in this story! Their friendship is really amazing ❤️ A very good book for reading. Recommend to all😆

Eine herzerwärmende Geschichte

A.@.W. · August 13, 2025

Im dritten Band hat Ruby ihren Auftritt. Das kleine Elefantenmädchen ist neugierig und voller Tatendrang und hat sich gut in ihre neue Herde im Zoo eingelebt. Allerdings, wie die meisten Kinder, ist sie verspielt und nicht immer einer Meinung mit den Anweisungen der Älteren.In ihrer frischen, naiv-liebevollen Art erzählt sie von sich und ihrem großen "Tusk-Day", der Tag, an dem ihre Stoßzähne durch die Haut brechen (also ähnlich wie die Milchzähne bei Menschenbabys), allerdings ist Ruby gar nicht erpicht auf eine große Feier. Es geht um das Erwachsenwerden, dem sie mit unterschiedlichen Gefühlen entgegen siehtAuch über Elefanten lernt man hier so manches, denn Ruby hat, wie alle Elefanten, ein sehr gutes Gedächtnis und so erfahren endlich auch Ivan und Bob, wie es dazu kam, dass sie aus der Savanne in den Kafig der Mall kam. Es geht hier darum, über Dinge zu sprechen, sie mit anderen zu teilen und zu erkennen, dass man dadurch manches für sich abschließen kann, auch wenn es natürlich immer ein Teil von einem bleibt. Und sich auf diejenigen zu konzentrieren, die für einen da sind und einem guttun.Aber auch um das Erwachsenwerden und die Zugehörigkeit, dass man zueinanderfindet, sich zuhört, geliebt und verstanden fühlt und man selbst sein darf.Morning ist like a gift you get to open every single day.Zitat Seite 50Liebevoll und mit viel Empathie geschrieben - für die Tiere und das Miteinander <3

Good

M.B. · April 16, 2025

Great book

Great book!

J.S. · March 31, 2024

My daughter read “the one and only Ivan” and “the one and only bob” so getting this book was a no brainer! She loved all three books equally. Makes a perfect gift if hardcover!

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