McLaren, Meg. Wee Unicorn. Meg McLaren, Illus. Charlesbridge, 01/2025. [32]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-62354-493-5. GRADES Preschool–2. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Originally published in Great Britain in 2023, this sweet story is set in an unnamed country that resembles mythological Scotland, with giants, selkies, and a monster in the loch. The title character is afraid of the monster at first, but learns to make friends with the monster, who the wee unicorn nicknames Ness. The theme of kindness and not judging others is obvious but not too heavy-handed. The cartoon-like illustrations feature dialogue balloons and use soft earth tones for the mixed media artwork. Sure to be popular due to the focus on the unicorn and the humor woven into the story. Review based on an ARC.
Penny Peck—San José State University, iSchool