Unicorn Races

Stephen J. Brooks
Purple Sky Publishing, LLC (2007)
ISBN 9780976901730
Reviewed by Stephanie, Parish (age 3) and Isaac (age 1) Rollins for Reader Views (4/07)


Both Parish and Isaac immediately were drawn to “Unicorn Races.”  They think the unicorns are horses, and Isaac has been trying to make horse noises ever since reading this. 

The story is about the mystical nature of a child’s dreams.  The illustrations capture this well.  The illustrations are dreamy.  Parish loves the little girl’s dress.  She thinks it is an Easter dress, because it is so special.  She now thinks she needs a magic wand.   I suppose I will have to cover a wooden spoon with aluminum foil and sparkles just to satisfy her. 

Each page sparkles with stars and magic.  There are special treats each child will love.  A few pages have a buffet table of cakes, cookies, and ice-cream sundaes. 

In “Unicorn Races,” Abigail pretends to go to sleep.  As soon as her mother closes her bedroom door, she dresses in her special dress, princess shoes, and crown.  She grabs her magic wand and waits for her unicorn.  The unicorn flies her to the unicorn races where they also have a feast of sweets.  She starts the race; the unicorns race across the sky.  Fairies, elves and Abigail cheer the unicorns on.  Then they all enjoy their treats.  The unicorn returns her to her bed for a few hours of sleep

“Do you like this book?”
“I like this dress.  It is an Easter dress.”

“Do you know what her wand does?” 
“It creates magic.”

“What do you think of the pictures?”
“Horses.  Look at the cakes.  MMMM….”

I had to explain unicorns to Parish.  Isaac is making horse sounds and pointing to the pictures of the horses.

“Should we keep this book or give it away?”
“I want to keep it.”
“Unicorn Races” is cute book that will delight preschoolers as well as beginning readers.  All the words used are familiar and easily sounded out.  First and second grade girls will love this book.  The colors are a bit too girly for boys.  Parish and Isaac recommend it.

Make comment on weblog