Published: 2022
Author: Helen Yoon
Illustrator: Helen Yoon
Genres: Picture Books, Humor, Unicorns, Animals, Storytime, Childrens, Fantasy, Mythical Creatures
Audience (Grade Levels): Elementary School; Grades K-2
Number of Stars: 5 Stars
Goodreads Link: I’m a Unicorn
Triggers: Mild bathroom/potty talk (referenced via “rainbow poop”)
Review By: Serena Waldron
Publisher’s Summary:
What happens when a one-horned calf with impeccable logic is convinced they’re a unicorn? Helen Yoon spins an endearing comedy of self-determination for gigglers everywhere.
“See?” cries the calf. “Uni means one, and corn means horn!” Even their baby picture proves it: they were born with one horn! But as the eager little calf continues their research, a budding identity crisis arises when they realize they don’t quite check all the boxes—should a certain lack of moonlight sparkle or silky mane or rainbow poop decide the issue. Perhaps some unexpected encouragement from a pack of “real” unicorns might be just the assurance they need? Helen Yoon, the comic talent behind Sheepish (Wolf Under Cover) and the anarchic Off-Limits, returns with a clarion call for self-doubters everywhere to embrace who they are—unicorn or otherwise.
Review:
“I’m a Unicorn” is a sweet, whimsical story about self-acceptance and individuality. The illustrations are simple, charming and allow you to focus on the main character and their emotional journey from “I’m a unicorn” to “I might not be a unicorn” and back again. I love how this book encourages kids to think about how there is more than one way to be something and that differences can be good things in an age appropriate and accessible way. I especially loved the “real” unicorns’ reactions to our main character! Overall, “I’m a Unicorn” is a wonderful book for promoting self-acceptance, self-confidence and celebrating diversity. It would make a great addition to a SEL library as well.
Classroom & Curricular Connections:
- Social-Emotional Learning (Self-Acceptance & Identity): This humorous book is a perfect tool for early childhood SEL lessons focusing on self-confidence, identity crises, and celebrating personal differences. Teachers can use the calf’s journey to talk about self-doubt, what it feels like to not “check all the boxes” of a certain group, and how to build authentic self-esteem.
- Language Arts / Vocabulary (Etymology & Word Play): The calf uses literal logic to claim their identity: “Uni means one, and corn means horn!” Educators can use this comedic setup as a fun, accessible entry point for a primary lesson on prefixes, base words, and how combining word parts creates meaning.
Diversity & Representation:
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The novel actively champions diversity and inclusion by expanding the definition of belonging. By utilizing a comical, one-horned calf who looks completely different from traditional mythical creatures, the text honors diverse definitions of beauty and identity. It teaches young readers that community acceptance should not depend on conforming to rigid, stereotyped expectations.
Readalikes:
- Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima
- Unicorn Thinks He’s Pretty Great by Bob Shea
- The Bad Seed by Jory John
