Title: The Unicorn
Author: Miguel Lopez De Leon
Publisher: Galadria Worldwide
ISBN: 0692229027
Pages: 84, Paperback
Genre: Fantasy Fiction
Reviewed by: Krista Schnee, Pacific Book Review
Book Review
Alex and Jason had a unique childhood, one that involved magic and freedom. Their parents encouraged personal indulgence as well as expression; chocolate cake for breakfast was normal and expected, and strict rules were discouraged. Indeed, such a perspective and family dynamic only served to foster unity and an idea of specialness. The boys often heard through their mother’s stories about the angels that protected them, and the magic was everyday in their household. As the joy, closeness, and freedom of their family was maintained, Alex and Jason enjoyed a fantastical life full of talking creatures and watchful fairies.Twins, the two brothers had grown up together, developing a relationship that would sustain them both through the difficult times that lay ahead. Their mother’s eclectic nature transforms into something much darker when their father leaves them. Her erratic behavior, paranoia, and demanding way affects the boys, leaving them exhausted and without support. Outwardly, they have a perfect life, and yet as with so many families, their lives were deteriorating behind this facade. They could, of course, continue to support their mother even in isolation, losing the magic and happiness of their past. Or they could lean on their own brotherly relationship and recreate their lives. The choice they make will be difficult and possibly disastrous for some.
In The Unicorn, Miguel Lopez De Leon provides readers with a unique blend of fantasy and reality, one that creatively illustrates for the reader the highs and lows of human emotion and experience. Although the novella at first appears to be a standard childhood fantasy, it becomes more of an exploration of the breakup of this family and the strength that is found in the brotherly connection. Indeed, the fantastical elements become more of a tool in the hands of the author; rather than dominating the storyline, the disappearance of the fairies and talking animals during the troubled period makes the emotional impact of what the family has lost that much greater.
The Unicorn is surprising in its depth and will certainly satisfy those readers desiring a childhood story with a darker edge. Although the main characters are young, this novella is most definitely one with adult themes, including mental illness, grief, and despair. However, despite the destruction that happens in the wake of the father’s leaving, there is hope for the boys and for humankind in general. The story is a lesson in staying true to oneself despite the challenges that might be encountered. Such a lesson is certainly one that will resonate with many readers in our modern era. Short and yet wonderfully wise, De Leon’s The Unicorn will stay with readers for a long time.
