Phoebe and Her Unicorn

July 1, 2014
A pink, bubble-gum bonbon of a tale spun of a likable, albeit self-centered, fourth-grader and her magical, self-obsessed, although sometimes-kind, unicorn. On a perfectly ordinary day, young Phoebe accidentally hits a unicorn named Marigold Heavenly Nostrils while skipping rocks. Unicorns, vain by nature, cannot help but become engrossed with their own reflections, and when Phoebe's rock hits Marigold, she frees the mystical creature from her Narcissus-like state and offers to grant Phoebe a wish. Phoebe then wishes for Marigold to be her best friend. From then on, the two are inseparable, embarking on one adventure after another. Phoebe is often tempestuous and prone to whimsy (what fourth-grader isn't?), whereas Marigold is often the straight man (or unicorn, as it is), taking our human expressions literally and setting up a good deal of the comedic action. As seen in short vignettes, the pair make everyday events-like boring piano lessons or a skirmish with a mean girl-giggle-worthy by the addition of the egocentric unicorn. Clean lines, clearly delineated panels and sparse background detail keep readers focused on the characters, driving the story forward without distraction. Recommend this to fans of Jennifer and Matthew Holm's Babymouse series and Frank Cammuso's Salem Hyde. A sweet, spun-sugar confection just right for unicorn fans. (Graphic fantasy. 7-11)

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August 1, 2014

Gr 4 Up-Simpson's syndicated comics featuring the unlikely friendship between an awkward young girl and an arrogant unicorn are published as one volume for the first time. Phoebe, a somewhat precocious nine-year-old, releases a unicorn held captive underwater by a magic spell. In exchange for her freedom, the unicorn Marigold Heavenly Nostrils grants Phoebe one wish, namely that the two will become best friends. Although imaginary childhood friends such as Hobbes and Winnie-the-Pooh are common, Simpson's take on the subject is unique and witty. Marigold is not invisible but often goes unnoticed, protected by a "shield of boringness." Simple line drawings bring the characters to life without detracting from the clever dialogue. Phoebe's face is particularly expressive, mirroring her wonderment and frustration with her recently acquired friend. The intended audience for this work is unclear. While the protagonist expresses her longing for a best friend, delights in sleepovers, and is enchanted with the mythical creature, there is an underlying sarcastic and mocking tone throughout. Facetious one-liners, such as "Terrible Vortex of Meh" and "summon your inner unicorn" may appeal to a more sophisticated audience. Reference to bathroom humor and several variations on "stupid," such as "stupidbutt" are obviously aimed at younger readers. Still, those looking for something to read after Jenni Holm's "Babymouse" books (Random), might want to take a look.-Barbara M. Moon, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY

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