Unicorn Is Maybe Not So Great After All (Unicorn #2)

Hysterical side commentary and even funnier details in the cartoon illustrations will keep readers coming back again and again for more of Shea’s irreverent, tongue-in-cheek humor. And if readers learn a lesson about humility along the way? That’s just the icing on Unicorn’s flaming birthday cakes.

In a sequel to Unicorn Thinks He's Pretty Great, it's the first day of school and Unicorn's confidence hasn't waned: "There's nothing to be nervous about!" he assures his friend Goat. "Let me go first, in case there are photographers." But his big entrance doesn't get the reception he'd expected--his animal classmates (including some familiar faces) are distracted by other diversions, including "rubber bands that look like other things" and a poster advertising a visit from "Famous Author Bob Shea." Unicorn hatches a plan to reinvent himself with a "sassy new look," featuring go-go boots, a rainbow wig, and fake teeth. The garb proves more alarming than whimsical, however, and Unicorn ends up home alone sobbing in a ragged bathrobe. Luckily, true friends appreciate the real Unicorn, who, they communicate, is "MAGICAL!" just the way he is. Through his relatable, flawed hero, Shea suggests that one can be authentic and special without being a diva. Ages 3-5. (July)

Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

PreS-Gr 1—Unicorn is ready to start school with his friend Goat, but becomes upset when he is not the center of attention. In an attempt to win back favor, Unicorn dons a new fancy look, covers everyone in glitter, and throws flaming birthday cakes into a crowded soccer game. He is told to go home, leaving Unicorn to doubt himself and his friendships. Shea never fails to deliver and the follow-up to Unicorn Thinks He's Pretty Great does not disappoint. Unicorn and Goat's classmates include some familiar Shea characters, including Dinosaur and Ballet Cat, along with a humorous ice cream cone and piece of toast. Much like Unicorn, the illustrations dazzle and excite, and the text is hilarious and packed with rich vocabulary for young readers. Text and images in the margins and background are equally as engaging and funny, inviting readers to revisit the pages again and again for small details one might have missed. While Unicorn is home and depressed following his failed attempts at gaining positive attention, the pages take on a darker tone. His eyes become bloodshot and he wears a bathrobe, another example of subtle details that are among Shea's strengths. Eventually, the pages return to a cheerful palette of pastels and sparkles once readers reach the happy ending complete with a valuable lesson about friendship. VERDICT A sensational choice for any collection and a welcome addition for Shea's many fans.—Kaitlin Malixi, Kensington Health Sciences Academy, Philadelphia

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.