Behold... the Unicorns!

From School Library Journal Kindergarten-Grade 3-Unicorns are a source of endless fascination, and Gibbons provides a clear and concise explanation for their presence in the world's mythology and lore. She begins with the Latin origins of the term unicorn ("one horn") and relates this word to examples of other one-horned animals such as the rhinoceros and the narwhal. She then discusses the evolution of the unicorn as a fabulous creature possessing magical powers and provides numerous examples of its existence in the folklore from Persia, China, and India, as well as references in several of the world's religions including Judaism, Hinduism, and Christianity. A floral motif and fibrous handmade paper borders tie together the colorful watercolor-and-ink illustrations, which vary from fanciful to descriptive. Full-color reproductions of the seven famous medieval tapestries comprising "The Hunt of the Unicorn" series are included; unfortunately, their small size and mediocre quality detract from the power of the images presented. The book also suffers slightly from a formulaic format, concluding with a page of informational tidbits instead of incorporating them into the text. For young unicorn lovers who cannot get enough of these gentle and noble creatures, this book fills a factual gap, but those preferring their magical creatures straight up might just want to stick to the lore.