If you thought unicorns were strictly imaginary, think again.
Anatomy, evolution, life cycle, magical properties: prepare to learn just how much you didn't know you didn't know about unicorns. Dive into the life's work of famed unicornologist Professor Temisa Seraphini with this beautiful, fully-illustrated encyclopedic volume of unicorn knowledge. Meet species from the fjords of the north to the unforgiving deserts of the equator as you discover the wonders of this enchanting creature from past to present.

This books is so divine. The hard cover has silver detailing, which makes it feel extra special before you even open it, and the illustrations are so beautiful - just look at those beautiful endpapers!

Inside, Dr Temisa Seraphini shares everything you ever wanted to know about unicorns, from the evolution of the six different species of unicorn through information about their anatomy and magic, unicorns in history, and how to track and communicate with unicorns. Like I mentioned above, the illustrations are are really lovely and every page is a delight.


I really think this one is a perfect book to give as a present to the unicorn lover in your life. The gorgeous presentation makes it extra special, and I think the way the information is presented would make it perfect for reading out loud together.
Huge thanks to the team at Walker Books for sending this one our way!

xo Bron

***
The Secret Lives of Unicorns by Dr Temisa Seraphini and Sophie Robin
Out now from Walker Books
Source: Thanks so much to Walker Books Australia for sending us this copy
Category: Picture book, mythology
Format: Hardcover, 61p 
On Goodreads.

I love seeing authors speak about their books and their writing process (actually, I love hearing about any artists' creative process!) so I jumped at the chance to go along to the launch of local Canberra author Amy Laurens' new book "Where Shadows Rise". And, I was so glad I did! The launch was a lot of fun - Amy spoke really beautifully about what it takes to get book to the shelves, and what being author means to her. We had got to know each other a little bit online in the few weeks leading up to the launch, and I have to say she was even more lovely in real life than I had expected =). Ooh, and also, the food was amazing haha

 

Of course I bought a copy of Where Shadows Rise for Amy to sign on the night - as if I could say no to that cover! I read it in just two or so sittings the following weekend, and really enjoyed it!

 

I should start by saying that I've recently noticed that I find the first person present POV a bit annoying, especially with a young protagonist, HOWEVER I got so caught up in the plot of this book that I didn't even notice! It felt original and fast paced, and I couldn't wait to find out what happened next! There were a few places where I would have liked a bit more info/background, and I definitely read Edge and Gem as older than 13, but I am so pleased that this is a series because I am looking forward to reading about what they get up to next!

I gave it 3/5 stars (I need the sequel NOW please!)