Andrea and I are so happy to see the positive reception of The One and Only Question so far. A big thank you to everyone who took the time to write such thoughtful book reviews!
CanLit for LittleCanadians:
“The text of The One and Only Question conveys with such poignancy Zeke’s apprehension for a horrible day, even at a new school where everything should feel fresh. Instead of expecting goodness, new friends, and positive beginnings, his viewpoint and mood are fearful, and cannot help but cloud every interaction he has, from riding the school bus or eating his lunch, to playing outside. He anticipates “the worst day ever” and understandably sees everything through that lens. But Norma Charles and Andrea Charles also give Zeke the opportunity to pull back that fatalism and see a positive interaction when someone reaches out to him and then when others do the same. He’s not rooted in the belief that things will only be horrible. He sees around his fears and looks at these interactions from a different perspective and sees what he likes. That’s both courageous and strong.”
Read the full review: https://canlitforlittlecanadians.blogspot.com/2025/03/the-one-and-only-question.html
Story Time with Stephanie:
“I love how Norma Charles and Andrea Charles are honest and forthright about what is bothering Zeke. Putting the phrase “the N-word” into the story may make some people feel uncomfortable but it’s so critical to readers for them to hear situations that are similar to those they can experience in real life in the books they read.”
Read the full review: https://storytimewithstephanie.org/home/theoneandonlyquestion
Kirkus Reviews:
“Writing in terse prose that effectively conveys the protagonist’s tension, the authors—a mother and daughter—draw from personal experience for a look at the toll that racist bullying can take on young people. They demonstrate how isolating it can feel to be targeted due to one’s race. Daley’s warm, expressive art makes a tough topic feel more accessible. The book ends with a note from co-author Norma Charles and advice on dealing with racism, aimed at both children and adults. Zeke’s community is diverse.”
Read the full review: https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/norma-charles/the-one-and-only-question
Quebec Literary Association:
“The authors address this serious topic well and in a way that is developmentally appropriate for young children. A note in the backmatter includes some ways to address bullying and racism for caregivers, teachers, and students. The One and Only Question would be a great addition to any school, public or home library.”
Read the full review: https://abqla.qc.ca/en/review-the-one-and-only-question/