The Unicorn Came to Dinner

April 15, 2020
Mythical beast versus pragmatic parents--with somewhat expected results. A unicorn has arrived for dinner, having apparently eaten Mom and Dad's daughter, Elizabeth (not for the first time). Rude, ungainly, and temperamental, the unicorn tracks prints around the house and exhibits appalling table manners. Dad and Mom, initially irritated, eventually tame this wild beast and even tuck it into bed with a teddy bear. Parents may smile in recognition at the rather obvious ending of this preachy tale. Kids might recognize themselves in this enormous creature that can't control its temper and feels generally misunderstood; however, the final metamorphosis has little explanation or catalyst, and the story's perspective seems very parent-oriented. There's no explanation why the unicorn is so upset; rather, the parents must figure out how to handle this situation as calmly and positively as possible. That seems unhelpful for both children and caregivers who need emotional guidance. Cornwall's illustrations, done in muted earth tones save for the pink unicorn, do nothing to enliven the flat story, a stark contrast to the vibrancy and emotional range evident in her debut, Jabari Jumps (2017). Furthermore, she uses paper-bag skin tones for this family of color, even giving Mom nearly the same skin tone as that of the woodwork. Disappointing and preachy, with illustrations that leave little to readers' imaginations. (Picture book. 4-6)

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May 1, 2020
Grades K-3 A unicorn has started showing up at Elizabeth's house and making herself at home, but she's grumpy and less than gracious, leaving hoofprints behind and making Elizabeth's mom hold her backpack. When Dad wonders where Elizabeth is, Unicorn declares, ?Neigh. Neigh!'" which means ?I ate her' in unicorn talk. Following a chaotic family meal, Unicorn sulkily does Elizabeth's homework, bathes, and then reluctantly readies for bed ( ?Neigh. Neigh!' . . . This meant ?Five more minutes' ). But Dad broaches Unicorn's moodiness ( The first week of school can be scary ) and offers perspective and encouragement, inspiring confidence and a more optimistic outlook for Unicorn?aka Elizabeth, now pictured as a girl in a montage of school-related activities and then cozy in bed, cuddling teddy . . . and toy unicorn. Creatively integrating amusing, upbeat, and sympathetic elements, animated prose, and charming, expressive illustrations, this portrays how unfamiliar or new situations can impact children's feelings and behaviors. Entertaining and ultimately reassuring, this will likely resonate with and be appreciated by kids and their adults alike.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)