A Gathering of Unicorns

Kristin Butcher writes novels for young adults. Her most recent works
are Cairo Kelly and the Mann, The Gamma War, The Tomorrow Tunnel, The
Trouble with Liberty, and Zee’s Way.

A Gathering of Unicorns, the fifth and final book in Vicki Blum’s
unicorn adventure series, opens with Nue, a scruffy elf from the fairy
world of North Bundelag, popping up at the Earth school attended by the
story’s heroine, Arica. The residents of South Bundelag have declared
war on their neighbours to the north, and Arica is the only one who can
help. Referred to as “True One” by the unicorns, who are among the
many creatures living in this other world, Arica must round up
sufficient forces to defend the home front. After numerous failed
attempts, she finally turns to the Book of Fairies for guidance. It
poses a riddle that Connor, Arica’s clever cousin, solves. To save
North Bundelag, Arica must use the power of all the unicorns to call for
help. This involves searching out a rebel unicorn, who is reluctant to
co-operate, but finally concedes, allowing Arica to complete the task
for which she was destined.

The story moves along briskly, with Blum creating vivid images of the
netherworld. Her wonderful word pictures are enhanced by numerous
black-and-white illustrations. For those who have read the other books
in the series, A Gathering of Unicorns provides a satisfactory
conclusion to the adventures of Arica and Connor. However, the book does
not stand well on its own. Though Blum includes information from the
previous novels, it is not sufficient to make first-time readers
comfortable with the story. There are too many gaps. Recommended with
reservations.