A Plague of Unicorns
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- $5.99
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- $5.99
Publisher Description
In this historical fiction-meets-fantasy novel by award-winning author Jane Yolen, readers 8-12 will experience a world where a young boy with nothing but questions may have the only answer to solving a unicorn infestation at a medieval abbey. With humor, heart, and an empowering twist at the end, this book is perfect for Yolen fans and anyone who wants to make their voice heard.
When young James asks one too many questions, his mother and uncle hope an education at Cranford Abbey will make him a proper noble—but when James arrives, the monks there are most interested in keeping the unicorns in the orchard from eating all the prized golden apples they need to save the abbey. Abbot Aelian thinks he knows how to defeat the ravenous unicorns, though it may actually be up to James to use his inquisitive mind to find a way to save Cranford Abbey and hopefully find a way to return home.
A Plague of Unicorns:
Features original, detailed illustrations that help bring the story to lifeHas short, engaging chapters and a print size perfect for reluctant readersWill appeal to lovers of unicorns, fairy tales, and books by authors like Avi and Karen CushmanHelps empower readers 8 to 12 feel like their voice matters, no matter who they are
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Yolen (Owl Moon) weaves a magical yet believable tale of myth and magic in this charming middle-grade fantasy. In the mythical kingdom of Callanshire, James, son of the Duke of Callander, is sent away at age nine to study at Cranford Abbey. The abbey, struggling to stay financially solvent, plans to make its extraordinary golden Hosannah apples into cider for sale. Unfortunately, unicorns also love these delicious apples. No matter how the monks try, they cannot get rid of the horned orchard raiders until James summons a singer named Sandy, who may have a way with unicorns. James is a hero to be emulated: he is curious, brave, and caring. His family and the monks are all well-drawn, with delightful details (James nicknames his tutor, Benedict Cumber "Cumbersome," for his dry delivery of obscure facts; Alexandria, James's sister, has eyes "like Spanish steel"). Though partially set in an abbey, this tale avoids an overt religious message. It does, however, offer a winsome example of how to live life responsibly. Ages 8 12.
