This Unicorn Book Is Magical 🦄

Not Quite Narwhal
Written & Illustrated by Jessie Sima
Age Level: 3-6 Years
Published February 14, 2017

Currently researching ‘horn vs tusk’

Just when I thought that a high quality unicorn book was just as mythical as the creature itself, I discovered Not Quite Narwhal. Funny, endearing, insightful, and sweet, this story is a dream come true. 

Kelp was born knowing he was different from the other narwhals. His tusk was noticeably shorter and his swimming skills were subpar, but he was accepted by the group so he didn’t overthink things. One day, a strong current carries Kelp towards land where silhouetted on a cliff stands a familiar looking four legged creature with a horn on top. “Land narwhals!” Kelp exclaims. Not quite, Kelp. 

“Did he want to be a land narwhal with the unicorns . . . 
or a sea unicorn with the narwhals?”

The story that unfolds is wonderfully sophisticated in how it handles themes of belonging, friendship, and finding oneself. Once Kelp figures out he’s a unicorn, everything about him makes sense. But once a sea unicorn, always a sea unicorn, and rather than trade his old life for a new one, Kelp brings both together in a sweet ending that shows how sometimes it really is possible to have the best of both worlds.