The One and Only Ruby by Katherine Applegate


Hello! I'm Sloane and I am reviewing The One and Only Ruby by Katherine Applegate, which is the third book of The One and Only Ivan series. I already reviewed the first and second book, but I'm going to talk about different aspects of the story in this post! I read this book recently after reviewing the second book, as I was looking for a book to read and was already reminded of this series. While the first two books are better, the third book is still a good read!

*Some spoilers for books 1 and 2*

The One and Only Ruby is written from the perspective of Ruby, the elephant that Ivan and Bob met in the Big Top Mall and helped to get relocated to a sanctuary. Her life in the sanctuary has been safe and happy, spending time with her herd of elephants, as well as Ivan and Bob. Ruby's "Tuskday" is tomorrow, which is a ceremony that celebrates an elephant growing their tusks. Early in the book, Ruby reveals that she hates her tusks. Jabori, one of her old caretakers, appears at the sanctuary to visit her. Ruby is reminded of her old life. When Ivan and Bob see her later that day, she tells them the story of her old life. Ivan, Bob, and Ruby remember Stella, recalling everything she taught them. Finally, Ruby's Tuskday is here, and she has to decide what to do about it.

*End of spoilers*

There are many things I like about this book. Ruby's character is so cheerful and bubbly. The book addresses serious issues on elephant poaching and animal cruelty. I also want to take a moment to appreciate the cover art, which is very lively and colorful. However, there are a few things I would change about the book. I think that, compared to the other books in the series, this one did not have a super exciting plot, or many plot points at all. The beginning of the book consists of Ruby explaining things about her new home and getting us used to the characters. The middle of the book consists of Ruby telling her entire background story. The end of the book finally puts us into the action, but it seems a little rushed. While there is a conflict, there are not a lot of stops along the way. Despite this, the book is good and Ruby's personality made me smile.

I would recommend The One and Only Ruby if you are looking for a quick and heartwarming read. Thank you for reading my blog post!

Comments

  1. Mattox PughMonday, April 28, 2025 at 1:54:00 PM CDT

    Hey Sloane! Great post, and the book you recommended seems like a fun read, though I may have to read the first two in the trilogy before I read it..

    ReplyDelete
  2. DarshanMonday, April 28, 2025 at 2:02:00 PM CDT

    I didn't realized they made another book after The One and Only Bob. I guess I'll check it out.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Sarah T.Monday, April 28, 2025 at 3:01:00 PM CDT

    Hi Sloane! This book sounds really interesting, and I feel like the cover art of all the books in this series is really good. Good job!

    ReplyDelete
  4. SofiaMonday, April 28, 2025 at 3:13:00 PM CDT

    Hi Sloane! This sounds like a great book! I like that it brings awareness about animal cruelty and elephant poaching while still having a good and fun plot.

    ReplyDelete

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