The Unicorn Doctor and Uni the Unicorn

One of my patients calls me 'the unicorn doctor'.  It's true.  And, it's oh so flattering. Why? Because as much as I like to keep my ego in check (and most of us are GOOD at that by second guessing ourselves), I'd like to think that I'm overall a good doctor.  So calling me a unicorn doctor means that I'm unique, and hopefully when she says she wants to see the unicorn doctor, it means that I'm doing a good job. 

And in honor of "A", I'm going to do a review recommendation of Amy Krouse Rosenthal's Uni the Unicorn (published in 2014 and illustrated by Brigette Barrager).  A brings her unicorn with her when she comes to the office.  We've talked about unicorn books including this one and Not Quite Narwhal.  And I realize I hadn't reviewed Rosenthal's Uni the Unicorn because--I'll be honest here--and say that I didn't like it the first time around.  <GASP!> I know! 

Rosenthal is amazing, and the world is a bit sadder for her early death last year.  Not just the book world, but the world in general.  After Rosenthal's death, I've been following the Instagram account that her daughter has set up to honor their relationship.  And not only is Amy an amazing writer and mother, I've come to realize that she touched so many lives with her words and actions.  You don't come across someone like that every day. 

So I had high expectations when I read Uni the Unicorn.  And was disappointed the first time around.  I'm happy to say that I gave it a second chance and I saw it in a whole new light.  I read Rosenthal's dedication to her daughter, and I thought of my daughters, who are dreamers and chock full of imagination.  And, yes, if they were unicorns, they'd believe in little girls (or boys) too. 

You know what disappointed me the first time around?  The illustrations.  While they are beautifully rendered and full of animation, I thought they were typical.  However, it's been several months since I first picked up the book, and this time I loved the rich, vibrant colors.  And I love the fact that Uni makes wishes on dandelions, especially since we love doing that too.

Overall, Uni the Unicorn is a story about believing.  And Amy Krouse Rosenthal is a master at making us believe that there is a good world out there, and that we can make a difference in that world.  So, if your little one is into unicorns, or day dreams, or making the impossible become possible, this book is for you. 

Dear A, I hope you realize how unique and special you are too, and that you make my day when I see you.  :D

Readability: Uni the Unicorn is a great read-aloud for a beginning (or master) reader.  Not too many words, but each one counts, just as it should be in picture books. 

Diversity side note: It's not that diverse but there's also only one little girl in the book.  The unicorns are different, though. 

Tell Dr. Bookworm!

Do you believe in unicorns?  Do you have a nickname you're proud of?  Let me know in the comments below.

This is me, the unicorn doctor, with some unicorn friends.  The purple one is a 'kitten corn' from Tee Turtle.  #notanad #it'sjustcute