The One and Only Bob

Bookseller recommendation

“Gruff-but-lovable Bob the dog picks up the narrator’s reins in this follow-up to Newbery winner The One and Only Ivan. He’s adjusting to his newfound status as a family dog after years on his own, and looks forward to trips to the zoo to visit with old friends Ivan and Ruby. When a bad storm throws his world into chaos, Bob finds bravery he never knew he had in order to rescue a friend he thought was lost forever. Themes of courage, friendship, and forgiveness are balanced perfectly against Bob’s wry observations and self-deprecating wit. Readers in grades three through six—and anyone who loved Ivan—will cherish more time spent with these characters. Highly recommended.”

— Noah • Blue Willow Bookshop

Bookseller recommendation

“"In The One and Only Bob," Katherine Applegate's sequel to her Newberry Award winning "The One and Only Ivan", our scruffy little dog finally gets a chance to make up for when he didn't track down and save his sister, the only other puppy to survive his litter being tossed out of a car. During a tornado, his friends are threatened, he confronts grief and guilt, and he discovers a sense of belonging. In tiny chapters, Applegate allows kids to process some pretty big ideas in a wonderful story full of humor and grace. I adored it and the audiobook, narrated by Danny DeVito, is utterly charming.”

— William • An Unlikely Story

Bookseller recommendation

“This book was the best book of the summer for 8-year-olds like me, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. You are always wondering what will happen next to Bob the dog, Ivan the gorilla and Ruby the baby elephant. And the audio book is narrated by Danny DeVito! 4.5 stars.”

— Nicole • Bookworm of Edwards