MARGARET’S UNICORN

Imagine what it would be like to find a mythical creature.

Young Margaret doesn’t have to imagine. After she and her parents move to a mountain cottage, she explores her new surroundings. Walking back, she discovers a baby unicorn tangled in weeds and carries it home. Margaret nurtures the lovely creature, assuring it of its herd’s spring return. Seasons change, nature blossoms, and girl and animal enjoy delightful activities. The two benefit each other: The unicorn thrives under his guardian’s tender care; Margaret’s life grows happier and less lonely. The unicorn acclimates to his human and cozy domesticity; Margaret misses her old home less. Inevitability prevails, though. Spring returns and with it, the unicorn’s mother; they depart, a bittersweet scenario. Sometime later, while playing with a new friend, Margaret is astonished when her unicorn, now grown, returns briefly, then disappears; Margaret takes this well. Children with a taste for the fantasy world who wish for magical encounters should enjoy this sweet, gently told story with an old-fashioned feel. The transience of magic is implied in Margaret’s understanding and acceptance of the unicorn’s comings and goings. Colorful, atmospheric illustrations enliven the country settings and serve the natural world and shifting seasons well; Margaret and the unicorn’s relationship is charmingly depicted. Margaret and her family present white; her new pal has brown skin. The baby unicorn is dappled.

Unicorns are popular among young readers, and this offering will satisfy.