Applegate's trilogy ends reasonably well. The actual climax is quite unconvincing, even for the target age group, and the lead character's self doubts continue to be repetitive and annoying. But the handling of death and killing on the battlefield is nicely done -- again, for the target age group -- and there are some nice set pieces.

Passably entertaining, but nowhere near her best.. ( )

After reading The Only, the last book in Katherine Applegate’s The Endling trilogy, I have to conclude the series is excellent. Quality characters and species, bravery, courage, unity, compassion, but her deeper messages about governing, leadership, cooperation, democracy, endangered species, the horrors of war and hatred are equally wonderful. Here is a quote that I particularly liked: “’tis ever easier to hate, Than learn or love, or create.” She addresses important social and political topics in a meaningful way for middle school readers.

Khara, a woman wielding the Light of Nedarra (a sword), is leading the Army of Peace to avert a war between two tyrants. She recruits Byx (the Dairne) and his intrepid tiny inseparable Wobbyk friend, Tobble, to serve as ambassador to speak to other species to obtain their support for the Army of Peace in stopping the war before it begins. The pacing of the book is quick, and Byx’s gift as a Dairne to be able to tell truth from fiction is ever helpful. She is endearing and a convincing advocate, despite her own worries she is not worthy of the title/role bestowed upon her. Yet, she manages to get species, who are normally rivals or even enemies, to join together, which is heart-warming, as is the fierce nature of the Wobbyks, who are not among the Great Species. Finally, in the end, an amazing act of bravery is needed to stop the madness.

4.5 stars recommended, but start with Book #1. P.S. I think Katherine Applegate should refrain from using “The Only” in future book titles. Three books with this as title or part of a title is enough. ( )

I greatly enjoyed the final book in this trilogy. This book was a lot heavier then I remember the first two being, but I was still really pulled into it and I think Applegate did a good job at balancing and mixing in lighter moments amongst the heavier scenes - especially since this book is marked towards younger readers. Compared to many books aimed at adult readers that I have read, I would not consider this book to be particularly graphic, but there are descriptions of battle, injury, and death.
So depending on the specific younger reader, it might be good to have someone they can talk to should those scenes be a little intense for them.

I deeply appreciated the approach Applegate had to war and fighting in this book: there are times it cannot be avoided, but that should never result in rejoicing in the death of others. I also greatly enjoyed the main character and the bonds she formed with many others throughout the book. A few things, especially as the story was coming to an end, were a bit too cliche for me, but that didn't ruin the book for me, personally. ( )