Dominika Dvorzhak, a San Jose-based author and linguist, has released The One and Only, a rhyming children’s book illustrated by Vivien Sárkány that shines a light on the emotional world of only-children.
Unlike the many picture books that focus on sibling dynamics or preparing for a new baby, The One and Only centers on a young child navigating the experience of growing up without siblings. It gently explores themes of identity, belonging and the quiet strength of being “just one.”
“I wrote the book I wish I had when I was younger,” Dvorzhak said. “And the one I wanted to give my daughter.”
The idea for the book came after a visit to several local libraries, where Dvorzhak noticed a lack of stories that spoke directly to only-children.
“There were plenty of books about becoming a big brother or sister,” she explained, “but nothing for kids who are—and will likely remain—an only child. As much as we should celebrate growing families, we also need to embrace and support different family dynamics.”
Later that day, while having a cappuccino at Los Gatos Coffee Roasting Company, she began reflecting on her childhood as an only-child—including the everyday moments that shaped this experience.
“Rhymes that captured the essence of those memories started coming to me,” she recalled. “I wish I had a romantic story about writing them on a napkin, but I just pulled out my phone and started taking notes. That’s how the first draft of The One and Only began.”
