
Skandar and the Unicorn Thief
by A. F. Steadman
Interest age: 9 to 11
Reading age: 9+
Published by Simon & Schuster, 2022
About this book
Skandar has always dreamed of becoming a unicorn rider, so is thrilled when he successfully hatches his very own unicorn, Scoundrel’s Luck. He can’t wait to embark on a five-year training programme on the Island, where he will hone his riding skills. Every unicorn is allied with one of four elements – fire, water, air or earth – although the best riders are those who develop skills in all four disciplines.
When Skandar learns that Scoundrel bears the mark of an illegal fifth group, known as the spirit element, he is terrified that he will be banished from the Island. His new friends, Bobby, Flo and Mitchell, vow to keep his secret and do everything they can to protect him and Scoundrel.
Meanwhile, the four friends work together to stop the Weaver, a sinister spirit wielder, from stealing unicorns and spreading fear across the Island.
This compelling fantasy adventure, the first in an epic series, is a gripping read. With imaginative characters and an exhilarating plot, readers are transported to a convincing world of fortified forests, spectacular treehouses and ferocious unicorns.
Friendship, loyalty and teamwork are at the heart of this novel, which also sensitively explores topics of grief, bereavement and depression.
More books like this
-
Noah's Gold
by Frank Cottrell-Boyce, illustrated by Steven Lenton
9 to 12 years
-
Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Being Good
by Louie Stowell
9 to 12 years
-
Shadow Thieves
by Peter Burns
9 to 12 years
-
Ella Jones vs the Sun Stealer
by Lucy Edwards and Katy Birchall, illustrated by Caroline Garcia
9 to 12 years
Lists of recommended reads
-
Fantasy books for 9+
Some of our favourite contemporary fantasy titles for readers aged 9+ to enjoy
-
A summer reading list: life-changing children's books
Our Writer-in-Residence SF Said knows which books spark a love of reading in children – here, he shares the recommendations.