“The One and Only Ruby” is a middle grade novel by Katherine Applegate. It will be released on May 1, 2023. And yes, I preordered this book months ago.

I received an eARC from NetGalley and HarperCollins Children’s Books.

This story is about sweet Ruby. Just like the preceding books of “The One and Only Ivan” and “The One and Only Bob”, the story of Ruby does not disappoint. It was like catching up with an old friend. Comfortable. Joyous. This book allows readers to learn about Ruby’s back story, the interactions that Ruby had with Stella, and shift into the present and get to know Ruby with her herd.

I highly recommend this book for middle grade readers. I simply think everyone should discover Katherine Applegate because her books are a treasures..

Katherine Applegate's The One and Only Ruby tells the story of our favorite elephant who is about to be honored on her Tuskday. She is not looking forward to the celebration because she has seen how tusks can make elephants vulnerable. With the kindness and wisdom of her elephant aunts and her chosen family - the one and only Ivan and Bob - Ruby is able to navigate the rite of passage with her signature grace and humor.

I will definitely be adding this to my classroom library. Its messages about loyalty, friendship and bravery are timeless and it provides an honest look at the treatment of elephants in our world. Ruby is told to ask herself, "What gifts did the world give you today? What gifts did you give the world?" If we all asked ourselves those questions every day, our world would be a better place.