Unicorn riders series by Aleesah Darlison
Ill. by Jill Brailsford. Walker Books, 2011.
(Age 7-10) Recommended. Four young girls, Willow, Ellabeth, Quinn
and Krystal and their magical unicorns feature in this fascinating
series for young girls. The young unicorn riders live in the kingdom
of Avamay and are sent off on dangerous missions when their country
and its people are in danger. Not only do they have action packed
adventures, each girl manages to find her inner strength, overcoming
fears and obstacles and becoming stronger in themselves.
I really enjoyed the books in this series. I loved how the girls
were introduced in the front of each book. Each girl has her own
symbol, which fits with her personality, her own uniform colour and
special gifts. The unicorns too have different horns and special
gifts, which help the girls on their missions. Young girls will have
fun deciding which rider most appeals to them and which personality
most fits their own and their friends. Jill Brailsford's
illustrations have ensured that the reader has a clear picture in
her head of the different girls and their personalities shine
through the simple black line drawings. The girls' large eyes are
sure to appeal to young readers and each has a distinct hairstyle.
The unicorns, too, are quite unique both in their appearance and
personality.
The girls are courageous and bright and have a wonderful
relationship with their unicorns. Each book features a different
girl and her unicorn, facing danger and becoming more self-confident
and self-reliant. Quinn must solve riddles in the first in the
series,Quinn's riddles. Girls will love the challenge of
trying to work out what the message is in the rhymes that the
Prince's kidnappers send. Willow learns how to forgive her uncle in
the second story Willow's challenge, while managing to lead
the riders and save the town of Arlen. In Krystal's choice,
Krystal has to decide whether she wants to be a Rider and in Ellabeth's
test, Ellabeth must overcome her self doubts, and learn how to
be a leader when Willow is injured.
This is an excellent series for young girls. It combines all the
ingredients that make for a good read - magical creatures,
adventurous girls and dangerous missions as well as giving girls the
opportunity to think about issues such as forgiveness, leadership,
family and what is important in life.
The books are:
Quinn's riddles by Aleesah Darlison. Walker Books, 2011. ISBN
9781921529979.
Willow's challenge by Aleesah Darlison. Walker Books, 2011.
ISBN 9781921529986.
Ellabeth's test by Aleesah Darlison. Walker Books, 2011. ISBN
9781921720000.
Krystal's choice by Aleesah Darlison. Walker Books, 2011.
ISBN 9781921529993.
Pat Pledger