A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling overlooked or questioning where they fit in. It's a gentle and empowering fantasy for a child who feels ordinary but dreams of being special. The story follows Evelyn, a timid orphan who discovers she has a unique and quiet gift: she can understand unicorns. This ability leads her on a dangerous quest to save the last of these mythical creatures from a menacing hunter. The book beautifully explores themes of finding your inner bravery, understanding that everyone has a unique purpose, and discovering a sense of belonging. Its classic quest format and focus on empathy make it an excellent choice for middle-grade readers ready for a heartwarming adventure.
The protagonist is an orphan, which is a source of her initial loneliness.
Sensitive Topics
The main character is an orphan, a common fantasy trope that serves as the basis for her initial loneliness and desire to belong. The topic is handled gently, focusing on her journey to find a new, chosen family rather than dwelling on past trauma. The primary conflict involves the threat from a villain, but the peril is fantastical and not graphic. The resolution is hopeful and affirming.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is an 8 to 10-year-old who loves animal fantasy, mythical creatures, and gentle adventures. This book is perfect for a quieter, more introverted child who may feel underestimated or is struggling to identify their own talents. It will deeply resonate with a child who daydreams about secret worlds and believes in the power of empathy and kindness.
Parent Prep
The book is safe to read cold. The villain, Strangle, is menacing and there are a few scenes of mild peril (being chased, facing a scary beast) that are standard for the genre. These moments are not overly intense and serve to highlight Evelyn's growing bravery. No specific context or preparation is needed. A parent has noticed their child expressing feelings of inadequacy, saying things like, "I'm not special," or "Everyone else is good at something except me." The child may seem to be losing confidence in social or academic settings and is retreating into fantasy play.
Age Experience
A younger reader (age 8-9) will primarily enjoy the magical adventure: the talking unicorns, the suspense of the quest, and the clear good-versus-evil narrative. An older reader (age 10-12) will connect more deeply with Evelyn's internal journey of self-discovery, her struggle with self-doubt, and the overarching theme of finding one's unique purpose in the world.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many fantasy books where the protagonist has a powerful or flashy magical ability, Evelyn's gift is one of quiet empathy and communication. The story champions introverted strengths and shows that true bravery isn't about being fearless, but about acting in spite of your fear. It provides a wonderful model of courage that is rooted in kindness and understanding, which is a unique and valuable perspective in the genre.
Read plot summary
Evelyn, a quiet and seemingly untalented orphan at the School for Prospective Tames, is shocked to discover she can communicate with magical creatures, specifically unicorns. When she learns that a cruel hunter named Strangle is pursuing the legendary last unicorn, she feels compelled to act. Along with her fearful but loyal schoolmate, Dimitri, Evelyn embarks on a dangerous journey into the risky wilderness. She must learn to trust her unique abilities and find her courage to protect the unicorn and fulfill her unexpected destiny in the secret Order of the Unicorn.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
At the start of the book, Evelyn's ability to understand unicorns isn't seen as a valuable skill. What is a skill you have that might seem small to others, but is important to you?
2
Dimitri is very frightened, but he still chooses to go on the quest with Evelyn. What does this story suggest about the true meaning of bravery? Can you be scared and brave at the same time?
3
The unicorns have to learn to trust Evelyn before she can help them. Why was it so hard for them to trust humans? Think of a time it was hard for you to trust someone and why.
4
Evelyn feels like she doesn't belong at her school. By the end of the story, where does she find her sense of belonging? Is it a place, a group of people, or something she finds inside herself?
