About the Author

Timothy Knapman is both writer and playwright. He was cast adrift on a boat made of books when he was very small, but made his way to Surrey where he now lives. He is the author of Mungo and the Picture Book Pirates, Mungo and the Dinosaur Island, The Twelve Unicorns of Christmas, and the smash hit Dinosaurs in the Supermarket.

Ada Grey studied illustration and later took a role in design. Moving back into illustration, Ada set about designing her own unique picture book style. Characterized by an energetic palate, adorable, lively characters, and a delicate use of texture, Ada's work has a whimsical, boutique feel. She is the illustrator behind Shhh! Don't Wake the Royal Baby! and I Love You Just the Way You Are, among others.

Reviews

Breaking with tradition, Knapman turns the favorite cumulative Christmas carol into a countdown to Christmas Day. Preparations begin with zing as a unicorn-obsessed blond-haired girl announces: "On the first day of Christmas, / my parents gave to me.../ 1 sparkling Christmas tree!/ And a real-life UNICORN!" Subsequent days outline activities enthusiastically undertaken with the unicorn, such as making "9 cards with unicorns on them!" for friends. By Christmas Eve, the girl's unicorn pal has lost some of his sparkle, and she makes a special request of Santa. The book's title teases the boisterous group of four-legged revelers who appear, ready to celebrate Christmas morning. Though typical seasonal activities are spotlighted, unicorn fans will delight in the narrator's unicorn-tastic wardrobe--pajamas, headbands, and even a dress adorned with the mythical horned creatures--as well as the plethora of rainbow and glitter details throughout. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)--Publishers Weekly "September 21, 2020"