About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the feeling that a situation or environment has been 'ruined' or when they are feeling overwhelmed by a sense of unfairness in the world. It serves as a gentle, allegorical reassurance that even when something beautiful is damaged by negativity or 'poison,' there are restorative forces and protectors capable of bringing back the light. It is a story about the endurance of goodness and the power of a single courageous act to heal an entire community. The narrative follows the legendary Unicorn, who must descend from his mountain sanctuary to confront a serpent that has poisoned the valley's life-sustaining lake. Through Marianna Mayer's lyrical prose and evocative imagery, the book explores themes of environmental stewardship, bravery, and the cyclical nature of hope. It is perfectly suited for children aged 5 to 9, offering a sophisticated but accessible fairy tale structure that provides comfort without oversimplifying the reality of conflict.
