The Twelve Unicorns of Christmas

Breaking with tradition, Knapman turns the favorite cumulative Christmas carol into a countdown to Christmas Day. Preparations begin with zing as a unicorn-obsessed blond-haired girl announces: “On the first day of Christmas,/ my parents gave to me.../ 1 sparkling Christmas tree!/ And a real-life UNICORN!” Subsequent days outline activities enthusiastically undertaken with the unicorn, such as making “9 cards with unicorns on them!” for friends. By Christmas Eve, the girl’s unicorn pal has lost some of his sparkle, and she makes a special request of Santa. The book’s title teases the boisterous group of four-legged revelers who appear, ready to celebrate Christmas morning. Though typical seasonal activities are spotlighted, unicorn fans will delight in the narrator’s unicorn-tastic wardrobe—pajamas, headbands, and even a dress adorned with the mythical horned creatures—as well as the plethora of rainbow and glitter details throughout. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)