{"title":"Katherine Applegate","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"the-one-and-only-4-books-collection-set-katherine-applegate-ages-8-12-paperback","title":"The One and Only 4 Books Collection Set by Katherine Applegate - Fiction - Paperback","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTitles in This Set\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Ivan\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Bob\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Ruby\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Family\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCondition: Brand New\u003cbr\u003e\nFormat: Paperback\u003cbr\u003e\n\nPublisher: HarperCollins Children's Books\u003cbr\u003e\nAge Range: Ages 8-12 (Grades 3-7)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only 4-book paperback collection gathers Katherine Applegate's beloved animal friendship saga into one heartfelt set. Beginning with the Newbery Medal-winning The One and Only Ivan, the series follows a gorilla, an elephant, and a dog as their lives intertwine across a shopping mall enclosure, a storm-tossed journey, a wildlife sanctuary, and finally a growing family. Told with gentle humor and genuine emotional depth, these interconnected stories explore courage, belonging, and the true meaning of home. A treasured addition for middle-grade readers and animal lovers alike, perfect for family reading time or a classroom library.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Books\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKatherine Applegate's The One and Only series began with The One and Only Ivan, the story of a gorilla who has spent nearly three decades behind glass at the Big Top Mall, entertaining visitors with quiet dignity. When a baby elephant named Ruby arrives, Ivan's perspective shifts, and a promise made to his dying friend Stella sets him on a path toward freedom and a truer sense of family. The book's spare, first-person narration—delivered in short, poem-like chapters—helped it become a Newbery Medal winner and a #1 New York Times bestseller.\n\nThe sequel, The One and Only Bob, shifts focus to Ivan's small, scrappy canine companion as he sets out to find the sister he left behind, braving a hurricane along the way with Ivan and Ruby at his side. The One and Only Ruby then turns to the elephant's own history, revisiting her early life in Africa and the circus years that shaped her, as she settles into a new home at a wildlife sanctuary. The series concludes with The One and Only Family, which follows Ivan as he adjusts to fatherhood, closing out the quartet's themes of resilience and belonging.\n\nAcross all four books, Applegate's warm storytelling remains rooted in real inspiration—Ivan himself was a real gorilla who lived for years in a Tacoma, Washington shopping mall before being relocated to Zoo Atlanta. That true history grounds the fiction, while the accessible chapters keep the pace brisk for growing readers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Benefits\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComplete four-book paperback set featuring all of Ivan, Bob, Ruby, and Family in one collection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncludes The One and Only Ivan, winner of the 2013 Newbery Medal and a #1 New York Times bestseller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShort, accessible chapters make the series ideal for building independent reading confidence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThemes of friendship, courage, and family provide natural springboards for classroom or family discussion\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePerfect gift for animal-loving kids, birthdays, holidays, or as a classroom library addition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWritten by acclaimed children's author Katherine Applegate, praised for humane, character-driven storytelling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBook-by-Book Guide\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Ivan — A gorilla who has lived behind glass at a shopping mall for years finds his world changed by the arrival of a baby elephant named Ruby.\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Bob — Ivan's small, brave dog companion Bob sets out to find his long-lost sister as a hurricane bears down on the group.\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Ruby — The elephant Ruby settles into life at a wildlife sanctuary while a visit from her past stirs up memories of Africa and the circus.\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Family — Ivan adjusts to the surprises and joys of fatherhood as the found family faces a new chapter together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Author\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKatherine Applegate is an American author of books for young readers, best known for The One and Only Ivan, which won the 2013 Newbery Medal and became a #1 New York Times bestseller. She spent years researching the book, including visiting the real-life gorilla Ivan at Zoo Atlanta, and has gone on to write additional titles in the series alongside other acclaimed middle-grade novels such as Crenshaw and Wishtree. With her husband, she also co-created the long-running Animorphs series. Applegate's writing is known for blending humor, emotional honesty, and deep compassion for both animal and human characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy You'll Love This Collection\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThis four-book set brings together a modern classic in one convenient paperback collection—an ideal gift for birthdays, holiday stockings, or summer reading. Fans of Charlotte's Web and Because of Winn-Dixie will find a new favorite here, with stories that reward rereading and spark meaningful conversations about kindness, courage, and home.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003ePlease Note: This is the UK edition with the ISBN as listed; the cover may vary slightly from the image shown.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Katherine Applegate","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57112110104950,"sku":"PLD21164","price":27.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0575\/6587\/2211\/files\/the-one-and-only-katherine-applegate-paperback.jpg?v=1785796924"},{"product_id":"katherine-applegate-collection-4-books-set-crenshaw-the-one-and-only-ivan-the-one-and-only-bob-the-one-and-only-ruby-paperback-katherine-applegate","title":"Katherine Applegate Collection by Katherine Applegate 4 Books Collection Set - Fiction - Paperback","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTitles in This Set:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCrenshaw\u003cbr\u003eThe One and Only Ivan\u003cbr\u003eThe One and Only Bob\u003cbr\u003eThe One and Only Ruby\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFormat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Paperback\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThis Katherine Applegate Collection brings four enduring middle-grade novels together in a single, value-packed paperback set. Written by the award‑winning author, these stories blend warmth, humor, and humane insight through animal- and child-centered perspectives. The quartet opens with Crenshaw, a compassionate exploration of friendship and family stress seen through a boy’s eyes and his imaginary big-cat ally. It continues with The One and Only Ivan, a powerful, award-winning tale told in Ivan’s first person voice about captivity, loyalty, and the possibility of freedom. The trilogy expands with The One and Only Bob, a canine-adventure that sharpens themes of trust and resilience, and culminates with The One and Only Ruby, which follows Ruby the elephant in a new chapter of unlikely friendships and hope. Together, these titles offer accessible entry points for readers new to literary fiction and a satisfying re-entry for devoted fans of Applegate’s animal-centered storytelling. This set is ideal as a complete series starter or a thoughtful gift for families seeking compassionate, character-driven fiction.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat This Collection Covers:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nAcross Crenshaw, Ivan, Bob, and Ruby, Applegate explores friendship, belonging, and moral growth through animal and human protagonists. The collection starts with a boy facing financial hardship and an imaginary feline companion who helps him navigate uncertainty, then shifts to Ivan’s reflective, vividly rendered world, where a silver‑back gorilla’s perspective invites readers to question confinement and empathy. Bob’s diary-like voice deepens themes of trust and forgiveness, while Ruby’s story threads in lush, natural imagery and community help. The progression invites readers to see courage in everyday struggle and to recognize the ways kindness can transform difficult circumstances. The interconnected voices emphasize resilience, hope, and the power of unlikely friendships, making this collection both heartwarming and thought-provoking for readers ages 8–12 and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBook-by-Book Guide:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrenshaw\u003c\/strong\u003e follows Jackson and his family as they confront a sudden, hardening financial reality. Jackson’s bond with his imaginary cat, Crenshaw, becomes a lifeline that helps him process fear, shame, and hope. The narrative gently confronts real-life hardship while balancing humor and warmth, offering readers a window into coping strategies, resilience, and the comforting power of imagination. Applegate’s accessible prose and tender character development invite readers to consider how families cope with strain and how friendship—whether with a real person or a larger-than-life cat—can ease the toughest days. The result is a thoughtful, emotional read that encourages empathy and courage. \u003cem\u003eCrenshaw\u003c\/em\u003e is a standout for readers seeking a humane, character-driven story that honors both fear and resilience.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Ivan\u003c\/strong\u003e is told in Ivan the gorilla’s own voice, a rare narrative premise that invites readers into captivity with honesty and humor. The book uses art, observation, and gentle humor to portray life inside a mall‑turned‑zoo, while quietly challenging the boundaries of freedom and friendship. Ivan’s evolving understanding of his world—alongside a cast of animal friends and a few compassionate humans—highlights themes of dignity, compassion, and the search for belonging. The book’s lyrical simplicity deepens as Ivan learns to trust again, making it a moving, accessible entry point to heavier themes about animal welfare and humanity. A beloved, enduring classic in middle-grade fiction.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Bob\u003c\/strong\u003e shifts to Bob, a loyal street dog with a wary heart, whose voice brings humor and grit to the page. The story unfolds as Bob navigates trust, loyalty, and a new home, offering a canine perspective on trauma, recovery, and friendship. With a determined, hopeful tone, Bob’s journey emphasizes courage and the resilience that comes from found family. Applegate again demonstrates how animal‑centered narratives can illuminate human themes—home, forgiveness, and the power of second chances—while delivering a satisfying, fast-paced adventure that appeals to readers who love character-driven journeys with heart.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Ruby\u003c\/strong\u003e expands the world with Ruby, an elephant whose experiences illuminate community, protection, and perseverance. The story weaves sensory-rich scenes with themes of compassion and stewardship, inviting readers to witness how individuals can contribute to a hopeful future for animals in care. Ruby’s arc reinforces the collection’s core messages about empathy, resilience, and belonging, while introducing a fresh, nature-inspired setting and a new circle of friends. This title completes the quartet with warmth and optimism, making the set a cohesive, multi-voiced exploration of courage, care, and connection across different species and settings.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho This Set Is Perfect For:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIdeal for middle-grade readers and families who enjoy literary animal fiction, this set supports independent reading, read-aloud time, and classroom discussions about empathy, resilience, and social-emotional learning. It’s a superb gift for fans of award-winning authors, for school libraries building a durable, high-impact collection, and for parents seeking thoughtful, accessible novels that invite meaningful conversations. The four titles each stand alone, yet together they form a cohesive reading journey that can spark young readers’ love of books, foster discussion about real-world issues, and encourage empathy for both humans and animals. This collection suits readers who enjoy heartwarming, character-driven stories with hopeful, uplifting outcomes.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Benefits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eEngaging, animal-centered narratives that build empathy and resilience\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eFour‑book value set from a renowned, award-winning author\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eStrong entry points for discussing real-world issues with kids\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003ePerfect for gifting, school libraries, and family reading time\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eDurable paperback editions designed for repeated reading and sharing\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eAccessible language with deep emotional payoff and memorable characters\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Author:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKatherine Applegate is an acclaimed, award-winning author known for creating compassionate, animal-centered stories that resonate with readers across ages. Her work on The One and Only Ivan earned the Newbery Medal, recognizing excellence in children’s literature. Applegate’s storytelling blends clear, approachable prose with themes of friendship, dignity, and courage, inviting readers to see the world through the eyes of animals and young protagonists. Her books are celebrated for their emotional honesty, accessible humor, and ability to spark discussion about empathy and social responsibility. This collection showcases her gift for mixing heart with thoughtful social themes, making it a standout choice for classrooms and families alike.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy You’ll Love This Set:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThis four‑book collection offers a complete, immersive reading experience from a trusted, award-winning voice. Readers gain exposure to diverse perspectives—of a boy and his imaginary friend, a gorilla, a dog, and an elephant—all anchored in universal themes of belonging, kindness, and resilience. The set’s cohesive tone and accessible language make it an ideal gateway to meaningful conversations about real-world issues, while still delivering the page‑turning momentum that young readers crave. It’s a thoughtful, long‑lasting addition to any personal or school library and a gift that encourages readers to care about the world around them.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e The individual books included in this listing will be dispatched as per the original UK ISBN and UK edition cover image shown in the image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katherine Applegate","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57350873579894,"sku":"PLD24552","price":41.4,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0575\/6587\/2211\/files\/61_Ip21k_pL.jpg?v=1771826205"},{"product_id":"katherine-applegate-collection-6-books-set-one-and-only-ivan-the-one-and-only-bob-the-one-and-only-ruby-the-one-and-only-family-crenshaw-wombat-waiting-paperback-katherine-applegate","title":"The One And Only Ivan, The One And Only Bob, The One And Only Ruby And More 6 Books Collection Set - Fiction - Paperback","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTitles in This Set:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Ivan\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Bob\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Ruby\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Family\u003cbr\u003e\nCrenshaw\u003cbr\u003e\nWombat Waiting\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFormat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Paperback\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nSix-book journey into friendship, courage, and animal-wild wisdom, this Katherine Applegate collection gathers The One and Only Ivan, Bob, Ruby, Family, Crenshaw, and Wombat Waiting in a single paperback. Across these titles, Applegate blends humor with heartbreak to explore belonging and the power of chosen family. Ivan's reflective narration, Bob's brave quest, Ruby's memories, and Crenshaw's grounded realism create a rich reading arc, while Wombat Waiting adds a gentle bridge for younger readers. The UK edition provides a consistent format, making this set ideal for home libraries, classroom reading, or BookTok recommendations. Together, they form a cohesive education in empathy and resilience, aligned with school SEL goals, and ideal for read-aloud sessions at home or in class. The six-book sequence invites discussion about responsibility, courage, and kindness, making it a long-lasting gift for growing readers at home, in library shelves.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Makes This Collection Worth Owning:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBuying the six titles as a single collection offers a complete reading journey with a consistent paperback experience in the UK edition. The trio of Ivan, Bob and Ruby provides a through-line about friendship, courage, and belonging, while Crenshaw adds a grounded, timely perspective on family life, money worries, and resilience. Wombat Waiting adds a lighter, picture-book entry that makes the set accessible to younger readers and siblings. Collecting these six titles saves time and shipping, makes gifting easier, and creates a cohesive reading shelf for families, classrooms, and book clubs. Readers can enjoy a binge-reading experience, advancing from Ivan's introspective voice to the broader cast of characters, all authored by the award-winning Katherine Applegate.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBooks Included in This Collection:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Ivan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nFrom the Newbery Medal tale, The One and Only Ivan follows Ivan the gorilla as he learns to look beyond his enclosure and discover friendship. The story blends warmth with heartbreak as Ivan and Ruby form a bond that pushes them toward a kinder life. This paperback edition preserves Applegate's concise, image-rich narration and vivid scenes, inviting readers to consider belonging and family.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Bob\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBob, a stray dog with a big heart, takes center stage in this hopeful sequel. Facing danger, loss, and a perilous journey, Bob discovers that courage arrives through friendship and loyalty, with Ivan and Ruby beside him. Applegate threads humor and tenderness through every twist, keeping the pace accessible for middle-grade readers while inviting reflection on home, memory, and belonging.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Ruby\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nRuby's voice grows brighter in this companion tale, recounting life before and after she found safety at a wildlife sanctuary. Her memories reveal trust, resilience, and self-discovery, while new caretakers offer hope for a brighter future. Applegate presents the animal world with warmth and honesty, inviting readers to consider kindness across species. The narrative remains clear and accessible, delivering an emotional arc.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Family\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA family-centered entry that expands the world of Ivan and Ruby, showing how love and protection grow in unexpected places. The gorilla family, the dog pack, and Ruby's circle weave through parenting, belonging, and resilience as new chapters—like the arrival of twins—soften heartbreak with hope. The pace stays gentle but emotionally precise.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrenshaw\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCrenshaw follows Jackson and his imaginary cat through a real struggle that threatens their family's stability. The book blends magical realism with grounded scenes to explore anxiety, friendship, and the courage to ask for help. Applegate's clear voice invites readers to sit with difficult truths while maintaining warmth.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWombat Waiting\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nWombat Waiting is a gentle picture-book that complements the longer narratives with a calm voice and soft illustrations. It introduces a patient wombat and a hopeful mood that invites readers to slow down and enjoy a quiet story. While shorter, the book carries Applegate's empathy, making it a bridge for younger siblings.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho This Set Is Perfect For:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDesigned for families, classrooms, and book lovers who crave character-driven animal stories, this six-book collection suits readers aged roughly 8–12, though many younger readers will enjoy Wombat Waiting with parental read-aloud support, and older readers will appreciate Crenshaw's realism. It's ideal for indie reading time, library displays, or gifting to new readers to the author. The through-line across Ivan, Bob, and Ruby offers a cohesive entry point to Applegate's world, while Crenshaw and Wombat Waiting widen the tonal range for varied tastes. The set is a strong pick for BookTok recommendations and classroom sets that foster discussion about friendship, resilience, and empathy.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Benefits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComplete six-book collection by Katherine Applegate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUK paperback edition for a consistent reading experience\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEngaging, character-driven stories about friendship and family\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuitable for shared reading at home or in the classroom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGreat as a gift set for animal-loving readers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSupports reading progression from picture-book to middle-grade fiction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Author:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKatherine Applegate is an award-winning American author whose books connect with readers through clear, compassionate storytelling. The One and Only Ivan won the Newbery Medal in 2013, a milestone that established Applegate as a master of animal-centered fiction for middle-grade readers. The Ivan series—Bob, Ruby, and Family—continues to engage fans with themes of friendship, courage, and belonging, while Crenshaw and Wombat Waiting showcase her range, from realistic juvenile fiction to picture-book tenderness. Applegate's accessible voice, witty observations, and humane perspectives make her books reliable picks for families and educators seeking thoughtful, uplifting, and truly engaging storytelling.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy You’ll Love This Set:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nOwning the complete six-book collection delivers value, continuity, and the joy of watching a reading journey unfold. The titles are rich with emotion and insight, sparking conversations about kindness, courage, and what it means to belong. The UK paperback editions maintain a cohesive look on shelves and in classrooms, while the mix of novels and a picture book offers a varied pace that keeps readers hooked. This set is ideal for gifting to new readers or longtime Applegate fans who want the full author-led experience in one trusted bundle.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e The individual books included in this listing will be dispatched as per the original UK ISBN and UK edition cover image shown in the image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katherine Applegate","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58367355486582,"sku":"PLD26040","price":49.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0575\/6587\/2211\/files\/71ztbzWVrFL.jpg?v=1785395367"},{"product_id":"katherine-applegate-collection-6-books-set-one-and-only-ivan-the-one-and-only-bob-the-one-and-only-ruby-the-one-and-only-family-crenshaw-wombat-waiting-paperback-katherine-applegate-1","title":"The One And Only Ivan, The One And Only Bob, Crenshaw \u0026 More 6 Books Collection Set - Fiction - Paperback","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTitles in This Set:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Ivan\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Bob\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Ruby\u003cbr\u003e\nThe One and Only Family\u003cbr\u003e\nCrenshaw\u003cbr\u003e\nWombat Waiting\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFormat:\u003c\/strong\u003e Paperback\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nDive into a deeply human collection where animal protagonists illuminate big truths about courage, friendship, and belonging. This six-book set brings together The One and Only Ivan, The One and Only Bob, The One and Only Ruby, The One and Only Family, Crenshaw, and Wombat Waiting, all by acclaimed author Katherine Applegate. Each title blends warmth, humor, and heartache to create unforgettable reading experiences for middle-grade readers and families alike. From Ivan’s gentle reflections in a mall menagerie to Bob’s perilous quest for his sister, these stories celebrate resilience and the power of chosen family. Ruby’s quiet, hopeful voice threads through the others, while Crenshaw offers a candid look at poverty and love through a child’s imagination. Wombat Waiting, a standalone later in Applegate’s repertoire, adds a moving note about loyalty and healing. This paperback collection is designed for easy sharing, classroom discussion, and lasting memories, making it a complete reading journey in one carefully curated box of adventures.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Makes This Collection Worth Owning:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nCollecting The One and Only Ivan universe alongside Crenshaw and Wombat Waiting offers a cohesive, ongoing exploration of belonging, empathy, and courage across six stories. The set provides a seamless reading sequence that helps young readers grow with recurring themes, recurring voices, and familiar character dynamics. Owning the full lineup simplifies gifting, library curation, and classroom planning while delivering a unified reading experience that rewards binge-reading and discussion. The mix of animal-led adventures with human emotional stakes makes these titles accessible for emerging readers and engaging for more confident readers alike, encouraging reflection, conversation, and a lifelong habit of turning pages.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBooks Included in This Collection:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Ivan\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIvan, a silverback gorilla living in a mall, speaks with quiet dignity about captivity, friendship, and hope. When a baby elephant named Ruby arrives, Ivan confronts the reality of his life and discovers that a different future is possible—tied to loyalty, care, and a will to change surroundings for the better. This moving story invites readers to consider empathy, resilience, and the power of community in surprising places.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Bob\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nBob the dog, with a street-smart edge and a past he’s not afraid to own, embarks on a dangerous journey to reunite with his long-lost sister. As a hurricane looms, Bob’s courage, wit, and the steadfast support of Ivan and Ruby propel him toward a brave choice: friendship and family can redefine a life on the edge of danger.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Ruby\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nRuby’s voice carries the memories of her life before sanctuary, drawing readers into memories of the African savannah and the bonds she formed along the way. Now living in a wildlife sanctuary, Ruby’s caretaker visits, weaving past and present together as she recounts life with the elephant orphanage and the people who kept her safe.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe One and Only Family\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA warm, hopeful look at what family means, featuring a cast of animal friends whose loyalties and affection echo the everyday ways families support one another. This title blends tenderness with humor, reinforcing the idea that belonging is a choice—and that love, shared moments, and mutual care build lasting bonds.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCrenshaw\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA grounded, emotionally honest tale of poverty, imagination, and resilience. Jackson and his family face hard times, but Crenshaw—the boy’s invisible, imaginary cat—helps him navigate fear, hope, and the courage to voice his needs. A compassionate exploration of anxiety, fear, and the bonds that sustain us when life gets tough.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWombat Waiting\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nA moving middle-grade standalone in verse about a homeless dog named Wombat who survives a devastating fire. Through spare, lyrical storytelling, the novel examines trauma, recovery, and the healing power of friendships, caretakers, and second chances. It’s a poignant, uplifting addition to the collection that resonates with readers who cheer for resilience.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho This Set Is Perfect For:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nIdeal for ages 8–12, animal-loving readers, and families building a shared bookshelf, this collection suits classroom libraries, read-alouds, and gift purchases. Fans of award-winning children’s fiction, animal protagonists, and heartfelt, character-driven narratives will find familiar comfort and new discoveries in each title. It also serves as a thoughtful starter kit for reluctant readers who respond to warm voices, quick pacing, and engaging plots, while still rewarding confident readers with deeper themes and emotional payoff.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Benefits:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eSix interconnected stories in one affordable paperback set\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eEngaging animal-centered adventures with human emotional depth\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003ePerfect for binge-reading, gifting, and classroom use\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eAccessible language paired with meaningful themes of resilience\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eAuthored by Katherine Applegate, a trusted voice in children’s fiction\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Author:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nKatherine Applegate is a Newbery Medal–winning, New York Times–bestselling author renowned for her accessible, hopeful storytelling and memorable animal characters. Her work often explores themes of friendship, identity, and belonging, earning praise from readers, librarians, and educators alike. The One and Only Ivan, Crenshaw, and The One and Only Bob are among her most beloved titles, celebrated for their emotional honesty, cinematic imagery, and enduring appeal to young readers seeking meaningful, heart-led adventures. Applegate’s prose blends simplicity with depth, inviting readers to reflect on empathy, courage, and the power of community long after the final page is turned.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy You’ll Love This Set:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThis complete six-book collection offers a rich, immersive reading journey that grows with the reader. It provides reliable quality, a cohesive thematic throughline, and multiple entry points for discussing character, resilience, and belonging. The set’s mix of standalone titles and recurring motifs makes it ideal for building a personal library, inspiring family discussions, and encouraging a lifelong passion for reading in a compact, gift-ready package.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e The individual books included in this listing will be dispatched as per the original UK ISBN and UK edition cover image shown in the image.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katherine Applegate","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58367395955062,"sku":"PLD26040","price":54.9,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0575\/6587\/2211\/files\/71ztbzWVrFL_ca0e4db9-be73-4bab-990d-b92ed81586c3.jpg?v=1785395695"}],"url":"https:\/\/skymartbooks.com\/collections\/katherine-applegate.oembed","provider":"Skymart Books","version":"1.0","type":"link"}