Unicorn Is Maybe Not So Great After All

In a sequel to Unicorn Thinks He’s Pretty Great, it’s the first day of school and Unicorn’s confidence hasn’t waned: “There’s nothing to be nervous about!” he assures his friend Goat. “Let me go first, in case there are photographers.” But his big entrance doesn’t get the reception he’d expected—his animal classmates (including some familiar faces) are distracted by other diversions, including “rubber bands that look like other things” and a poster advertising a visit from “Famous Author Bob Shea.” Unicorn hatches a plan to reinvent himself with a “sassy new look,” featuring go-go boots, a rainbow wig, and fake teeth. The garb proves more alarming than whimsical, however, and Unicorn ends up home alone sobbing in a ragged bathrobe. Luckily, true friends appreciate the real Unicorn, who, they communicate, is “MAGICAL!” just the way he is. Through his relatable, flawed hero, Shea suggests that one can be authentic and special without being a diva. Ages 3–5. [em](July) [/em]