The Last Unicorn

And the Meaning of Magic

By Peter S. Beagle

USA, 1968

Fantasy

Main Attractions

1. An actual unicorn as the main character.

2. A variety of memorable characters.

3. A brilliant 80s cartoon based on this book.

4. Many great quotes and insights.

5. Many unexpected details.

6. Simple to read, but also very deep in meaning.

7. Great for a study in gender roles.

8. Introduces human nature to YA or children.

9. There’s a pirate cat!

10. And a talking skeleton pirate! 

Cuisine & Delicacies

Ranked as: Dessert Bar

It can be snacked on chapter by chapter.  Or indulged in, buffet style!  On the surface, it’s light and airy easy read that’s suitable for children.  But it’s tones are as rich as cheesecake or as dense as fudge.  Gender roles are brought up repeatedly and are noticeable with careful reading.  Also, the philosophy of the human heart is brought up to weigh in at the dessert bar.   To lighten things up, there’s a talking pirate cat who hangs out and a wine-drinking skeleton.  Both creatures have a marvellous sense of humour.

Why visit here?

It’s sure to brighten your day.  The light - hearted humour and characters are memorable and chuckle-worthy. 

Off the Beaten Path

Here’s the film trailer for the 1982 movie.  It’s a must-see for fans of the book.  It’s rare that a movie and book can be so compatible and equally loved by fans.

Packing List

✓ Photos of The Unicorn Tapestries for inspiration

✓ Ballet music to set the mood, Tchaikovsky is great.

✓ The 1980s film adaptation, loved by the author

✓ Cozy blanket and beverage 

Recommended Resources:

Alternate Books

✓ Anne of Green Gables By Lucy Maud Montgomery (1908) - Also light and airy with lovable characters

✓ The Unicorn Sonata By Peter S. Beagle (1996) - The plot travels between the real world and fantasy world.

✓ Snow Flower and the Secret Fan By Lisa See (2005) - Also poetic language, but much deeper into gender roles

✓ The Neverending Story By Michael Ende (1979) - Also fantasy, but much deeper philosophy

Movie Adaptation
✓ The Last Unicorn (1982) Directed by Arthur Rankin Jr & Jules Bass - It's a great adaptation that the author also enjoys!