Cranford Abbey stands in need of revenue, and nine-year-old James may just hold the key to remedy the plague of unicorns. Cider from the golden apples is the Abbey’s most valuable commodity, and Abbot Aelian tries any number of traps, heroes, and schemes to block a herd of unicorns from devouring the Abbey’s annual harvest—all to no avail. When the Earl’s son, James, arrives at the Abbey to receive his education (and to relieve his family of his annoying questions), will the Abbot hazard the Earl’s heir in the quest no man has yet achieved?
Jane Yolen’s spoof on unicorns is a serious swing at Christian humor and does not miss the mark. A Plague of Unicorns delves into medieval history, and fantasy, but more than anything, clean, dry humor. The writing is well done, and although there’s not a ton of suspense the ending has a nice twist. A fun read for any age.
Age Range: 8 and up
Genre: Fantasy/Humor
Zonderkidz 2014
Available: Amazon, Christianbook.com, Also ask for this book at your local library
