Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE ONE AND ONLY

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THE ONE AND ONLY

Katherine Applegate

The stories of Ivan, Bob and Ruby. (Ages 8 to 12)

Ages 9+Source checked

Why this age? The language and plot are accessible to middle-grade readers, but animal captivity, neglect, separation, and a friend's death may be emotionally difficult for younger children. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age9+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Products & advertising2/5

Strongest positives

  • Kindness & empathy5/5
  • Positive messages5/5
  • Courage & resilience4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

Mention of mall commercialism as part of the setting.

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Includes the death of an older elephant, handled with emotional depth.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Animal captivity, separation, neglect, and threats create recurring emotional tension, especially around Stella and Ruby, but the story is not presented as horror.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Refers to the history of animals being captured and some mild aggression in the wild.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Characters show great courage in changing their circumstances.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Ivan's art is a key component of his expression and development.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

The book includes some varied human and animal perspectives, including Julia, but human cultural and identity diversity is limited and not a main focus.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Provides insight into the lives of animals in captivity.

Kindness & empathy5/5
Why this rating?

Kindness is a central, driving force of the narrative.

Positive messages5/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes of empathy, standing up for others, and the value of freedom.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Ivan is a selfless, thoughtful character; some human characters show growth.

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. Where did a character show kindness or empathy, and what changed because of it?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in THE ONE AND ONLY would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE ONE AND ONLY, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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