Friday, September 1, 2023

Review: The First Unicorn by Kathleen J. Shields

  
by Kathleen J. Shields

Almost everyone knows what a unicorn is, but do you know where they came from? Who was the first unicorn? How did he get his golden horn? And why did others follow in his footsteps?

Aden is a young horse, who believes that giving of his time and gifts is the best way to share hope in the world. One evening, he is visited by an angel who bestows a gift of gold upon his forehead, “You cannot see or spend it. It’s for others to behold.” Yet, when he returns home that evening, the herd sees the horn as a weapon and chases him away.
Sad but not discouraged, Aden continues to help and care for others. However, when his mother gets injured, he discovers his horn can perform miracles. It was that first miracle that softened the hearts of the others and inspired them to lead a God-filled life as well.

This story is about love, acceptance, kindness and giving. It is the story of the First Unicorn and how God’s creation would succeed at greatness.

“Anything is possible if love is what you choose. Miracles can happen if you share the good news.”



My Take:
The First Unicorn by Kathleen J. Shields is a delightful faith-filled tale of how the first unicorn came to be. Long ago, in a far away land, a herd of horses lived out their lives day to day in a mundane cycle of eating and sleeping. While most of the horses in the herd go about their dreary lives just eating, a young colt named Aden fills his time giving to others, having fun, and doing good deeds. He rescues the weak and comforts the lonely. His actions and care for others eventually result in a gift from God – a beautiful golden horn! But that’s when Aden’s troubles really start. Will Aden find a way to help others when his new appearance frightens even those who knew him well?


Content:
Drug Content:
G – none
 
Violence:
G – A wolf attacks one of the characters
 
Language:
G – Squeaky clean
 
Adult Content:
G – Squeaky clean.
 
Christian content:
This is a Christian book. Unicorns are found in the Bible, depending on the translation/version you prefer. (Job and Proverbs) Aden loves life and God and helps all the woodland creatures. Even when tragedy strikes he doesn’t lose hope. And even when shunned because he is different, he does not lose trust. This story is about love, goodness, kindness, acceptance, giving, and sharing the Good News.
 
Final Analysis:
The First Unicorn by Kathleen J. Shields is a heartwarming story of the first unicorn. Each page is beautifully illustrated by Aashay Utkarsh, and complements the poignant poem contained within this early reader treasure. Short footnotes define difficult or unfamiliar words, and the reading level of this book ensures Elementary-age children will enjoy reading it to themselves. It’s liberally laced with faith and encouragement to children to do the right thing, even when it’s hard. The pacing is perfect, and the plot engaging. Aden is a delightful character, and who doesn’t like stories about horses and unicorns? At 50 pages, it is a very quick read with an engaging storyline and an eternal message. Perfect for young Christian readers and fans of fantasy, unicorns, and faith! Five Stars!



About the Author:
Kathleen J. Shields is a very creative, highly imaginative and extremely dedicated, hard working individual. She runs her own website and graphics design company, a publishing company and has published over 21 books; from fully-illustrated rhyming stories for ages 4 and up, children's chapter books for ages 8 and up, and young adult stories with plans for a few romantic adult stories as well.

Kathleen has been writing poetry and stories for years both for fun and for hire in custom greeting cards and for local speaking outlets. She enjoys sharing her stories and talking with children and adults about how they too can write if they put their mind to it.

Kathleen also writes a blog with inspirational and educational posts both regarding her endeavors as an author as well as a business woman.

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