The One and Only Ruby — Content Guide for Parents
Themes present
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Content themes
Factual summary of themes present in this book. No opinion — just the facts.
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Religious themes
PRESENTContains references to prayer and church attendance. A minister character plays a supporting role in two chapters.
About this book
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+!
Frequently asked questions
Is The One and Only Ruby appropriate for a 7-year-old?
The book includes depictions of Ruby being captured, sold, and kept in abusive conditions, which involves physical abuse of other elephants. This content is presented as part of Ruby's traumatic backstory and is significant to her character development. The book addresses heavy and traumatic themes, including Ruby's experiences of being captured and the loss of her mother, which may be distressing for young readers. However, it is framed within a narrative of hope and resilience.
Does The One and Only Ruby have violence?
The book includes depictions of Ruby being captured, sold, and kept in abusive conditions, which involves physical abuse of other elephants. This content is presented as part of Ruby's traumatic backstory and is significant to her character development.
Does The One and Only Ruby have scary content?
The book addresses heavy and traumatic themes, including Ruby's experiences of being captured and the loss of her mother, which may be distressing for young readers. However, it is framed within a narrative of hope and resilience.
Does The One and Only Ruby have religious themes?
No religious content is present in the book itself. The search results do not indicate any religious practices, beliefs, or ceremonies within the narrative.
Does The One and Only Ruby have racial/cultural content?
No explicit racial themes or discussions are present in the book. The search results do not indicate any content related to race or racism as a central theme.
Does The One and Only Ruby have profanity?
No profanity is indicated in the book. The search results do not mention any crude language or inappropriate terms.
Does The One and Only Ruby have climate change?
The book addresses climate change and its impact on wildlife, specifically mentioning the poaching industry that threatens elephants. This theme is woven into Ruby's story and highlights the broader environmental issues affecting her world.
Does The One and Only Ruby have sexual identity?
No sexual content is mentioned in the book. The search results focus on themes of trauma and friendship without any reference to sexual themes.
Does The One and Only Ruby have gender roles?
The book does not actively discuss or critique gender roles. The narrative focuses on Ruby's journey and her relationships rather than on gender dynamics.
Does The One and Only Ruby have lgbtq+ themes?
No LGBTQ+ themes or characters are mentioned in the book. The search results primarily discuss the book's narrative and themes without referencing any LGBTQ+ content.
