 |
Prince Michael lives with his family in a beautiful castle. He visits the Great Forest, playing with the elves, dwarfs, and sprites. His friend Imre, Prince of the Dwarves, tells him one day there is a unicorn in the forest—a magical creature with four legs, a long tail, and a horn. "They protect good people from the gremlins and goblins and monsters," Imre explains. Michael has never heard of unicorns before. The young prince decides he would like to capture the elusive creature and returns to the castle to retrieve his magic rope.
Michael repeatedly tries to capture a unicorn, but ends up with silly attempts involving ponies and deer. His mother suggests he simply walk in the woods and see if the unicorn chooses to approach and talk. Michael is surprised to learn that the idea was best, as one day Silvarin, an all-black unicorn with a white horn, tells his new friend that no rope is needed. Instead, Michael can call for him anytime, and he will appear. The two play together, now great friends.
With attractive, colorful graphics by illustrator Meadow Holt accompanying the text, Badzey's picture-book is a fun, lively read full of forest sprites, dwarves, and elves. Prince Michael, the protagonist, is curious, determined, and adorable in his steadfast resolve to capture a unicorn. Further, the story shares an important value for young readers. When Michael learns of the existence of unicorns he incorrectly believes that, because they speak with important grown-ups like wizards and kings, he—as a child—can only meet one by doing somethething sneaky, like catching it. Each unsuccessful adventure with his magic rope results in his forest friends rescuing him to safety. Finally, the magnificent creature Silvarin reveals he need not be "caught" to speak with a child—all that's needed are friendly intentions. In fact, this unicorn would love to make a new friend. Adults, preoccupied with monetary concerns, are "so boring" and children like Michael make the best friends, after all.