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The Shadow of the Unicorn #1
The Legacy
A loud, hissing sound filled the air. The unicorns looked up, their eyes filled with horror.
Azaria, a unicorn colt, is intrigued when the young, clairvoyant dinosaur, Darius, foresees a terrifying change to their world. When a giant fireball smashes into the earth, the unicorns struggle to survive the hurricanes and starvation that follow. But nothing compares to the danger when the creatures-that-walk-on-two-legs settle in the valley, and their leader discovers the healing power in the unicorns’ horns. Greedy and ruthless, Ishmael will stop at nothing in his pursuit of wealth – even the complete extinction of the herd. Azaria must find a way to outsmart Ishmael before it’s too late.
179 pages, ebook
First published November 30, 2012
About the author
Suzanne de Montigny
9 books280 followersSuzanne grew up in Chilliwack, B.C. A musical child, she studied music composition at the U of Victoria and UC San Diego. After a brief career as a composer and pianist, she drifted into music education where she learned she could weave a good story that kept kids pretty entertained. The Shadow of the Unicorn is a three-part series about endangered species and the recklessness of humans.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 17, 2014
5.0 out of 5 stars A story I could hardly wait to give to my grandkids, April 1, 2013
By Penny Estelle (Arizona)
This review is from: The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy (The Shadow of the Unicorn Series) (Kindle Edition)
I just finished reading The Shadow of the Unicorn. What a story teller Suzanne de Montigny is. She combined unicorns with dinosaurs and spun a tail of magic that kept me turning the pages, not to mention throwing in an evil that came in the form of a human!
What an enjoyable story - and here I thought these mystic animals were extinct. I just didn't know what to look for!
By Penny Estelle (Arizona)
This review is from: The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy (The Shadow of the Unicorn Series) (Kindle Edition)
I just finished reading The Shadow of the Unicorn. What a story teller Suzanne de Montigny is. She combined unicorns with dinosaurs and spun a tail of magic that kept me turning the pages, not to mention throwing in an evil that came in the form of a human!
What an enjoyable story - and here I thought these mystic animals were extinct. I just didn't know what to look for!
April 10, 2013
Azaria, a unicorn, is born right before a time of great change. He and his father befriend Darius, a dinosaur who is also a Seer. Darius predicts the coming of planetary disaster, but not when or how. The time of change arrives in the form of a meteor, which brings climactic anomalies that nearly destroy the unicorns. The storms do destroy most of the dinosaurs, only Darius is left alive. There is also another change with the meteor, the ones who walk on two legs, humans relocate to an area where the unicorns have always had sanctuary. One of these humans, Ishmael, proves to be a major problem for Azaria and his herd. Their mettle is tested to its limits, with some of the magical creatures giving in to very human emotions. Can they survive?
Suzanne di Montigny weaves a magical tale for children from seven to twelve years of age. The plight of the unicorns, what they endure, is a thing some children face daily, although not in the same manner. Yet, she manages to keep the story on an entertaining level. Di Montigny stretches her writing muscles to delight young readers, and their parents who should share this story, and keep them coming back for more.
Suzanne di Montigny weaves a magical tale for children from seven to twelve years of age. The plight of the unicorns, what they endure, is a thing some children face daily, although not in the same manner. Yet, she manages to keep the story on an entertaining level. Di Montigny stretches her writing muscles to delight young readers, and their parents who should share this story, and keep them coming back for more.
April 16, 2013
Unicorns and dinosaurs—winning ingredients in children’s literature. Suzanne de Montigny has written a great adventure story in which a young unicorn’s world is changed almost overnight from one of relative peace to one of chaos. The unicorns must face something worse than a tyrannosaurus rex: human greed and treachery. Like the best of fantasies, Shadow of the Unicorn contains universal truths as, for example, children’s overwhelming need to play even in a stressful environment: “Yet despite the dismal landscape and the doubt, the foals grew braver and still played as all young do in times of distress.” In unicorn mythology the unicorn’s horn was said to have healing power, which de Montigny cleverly weaves into a plot that takes many twists and turns to keep readers on the edge of their seats. My favorite quotes include “Daylight crept in again like a cruel, twisted beast,” and the “sandy arabesque” created by the wind. Shadow of the Unicorn imaginatively blends myth—unicorns—with scientific theory—the meteor that crashed into Earth and wiped out the dinosaurs. This is a combination that should appeal to many young readers.
March 16, 2013
This review is from my 9 yr old niece.
My aunt gave me this book to read. She told me that I would love it. The book has unicorns and dinosaurs. The dinosaurs don’t live long. Well one live a long long time. Darius lives forever. Azaria and his friend Gaelen go with Azarias father to speak with the dinosaur leader. Azarias father is the leader of the unicorns. They learn some terrible things are going to happen. They are told they will encounter creatures that walk on two legs. I think he is talking about humans. I donot know of any other creature that walks on two legs. So much changes it is like a ice age. The unicorns have no food or water. They are cold and hungry All the bad stuff happens. Then the creature on two legs appears and he hunts the unicorns. He wants the magical power they have. Azaria and his friends beat the bad guy and run away in the forest. Right before running away azaria sees his old friend darius. I liked reading this book. It was fun and now I want a unicorn and zebra.
My aunt gave me this book to read. She told me that I would love it. The book has unicorns and dinosaurs. The dinosaurs don’t live long. Well one live a long long time. Darius lives forever. Azaria and his friend Gaelen go with Azarias father to speak with the dinosaur leader. Azarias father is the leader of the unicorns. They learn some terrible things are going to happen. They are told they will encounter creatures that walk on two legs. I think he is talking about humans. I donot know of any other creature that walks on two legs. So much changes it is like a ice age. The unicorns have no food or water. They are cold and hungry All the bad stuff happens. Then the creature on two legs appears and he hunts the unicorns. He wants the magical power they have. Azaria and his friends beat the bad guy and run away in the forest. Right before running away azaria sees his old friend darius. I liked reading this book. It was fun and now I want a unicorn and zebra.
March 5, 2013
Suzanne de Montigny drew me right into "The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy" with her beautiful descriptions of a land shared by unicorns and dinosaurs. I could picture, smell, and hear the landscape as it stretched out in front of the characters. Azaria and the young unicorns are a wonderful mix of playful like children and wise like you'd expect unicorns to be. Darius is wise beyond his years and so caring. I wish he was my friend in real life. Two-legger Ishmael is a devious villian. All the elements of a great fantastical middle grade read.
December 16, 2012
Enter the world of dinosaur seers and happy unicorns as they face the very unmagical greed of humans. This fun story grips the reader and paints a charming world so clearly you will remember it long after you've finished the book
January 29, 2013
I absolutely LOVED this book! My kids enjoyed it too. It's a definite book to have on your reading list and your children's list. You won't be disappointed reading anything by Suzanne <3
October 15, 2022
Azaria está honrado de que su padre, el Gran Semental, lo lleve a una visita al clan de dinosaurios, pero allí conocen a un joven vidente, Darius, que les avisa de una gran oscuridad que causará cambios en el mundo y de unas criaturas de dos patas muy peligrosas.
~~~
Que sea una historia sobre unicornios que tienen por vecinos a los dinosaurios podría crear la preconcepción de que es un libro aniñado. Y ciertamente está clasificado como infantil, y el lenguaje, desarrollo y narración son simplistas, pero las emociones y el mensaje que transmite es apto para todas las edades.
El primer 20 % del libro es tierno, un pequeño unicornio que gusta de retozar con sus amigos, jugarse bromas y escuchar las historias de los ancianos; pero muy pronto todo cambia, cuando se cumple el vaticinio de un joven dinosaurio: una bola de fuego ha caído en la tierra y las cenizas de los incendios y polvo ha ocultado el sol, muy pronto las plantas y las criaturas grandes han desaparecido. Aunque la manada de unicornios ha sobrevivido al apocalipsis y después de meses algunas plantas nuevas comienzan a brotar, su calvario está lejos de acabar, cuando los hombres se asientan en su idílico valle y empiezan a cazarlos. El resto del libro es más sombrío, pero las acciones valientes y decisivas de Azaria conservan el optimismo por el bien de los unicornios.
La autora pudo haberse extendido más en la creación de este mundo prehistórico alternativo, o en sus personajes, pero cumple bien en transmitir su mensaje. Es en la codicia del líder de los hombres por beneficiarse de los unicornios primero como montura (sin buenos resultados) y luego como medicina mágica cuando descubre sus poderes curativos, donde encontramos un mensaje muy actual, y así nos lo hace saber la autora en sus notas finales, comparando los hechos del libro con la caza indiscriminada de elefantes y rinocerontes en nuestros días.
En general es una lectura entretenida, y podría quedar perfectamente como libro único, aunque veo que hay una secuela.
¿Qué Disfruté?
La transición entre unicornios de pocos meses a jóvenes adultos está bien definida por su comportamiento de juguetón a más responsable. Fue bonito ver cómo fueron madurando y Azaria supo hacerle frente a sus nuevas circunstancias.
¿Qué Prefiero Olvidar?
Tal como en la vida misma, tener que despedirse de padres y amigos.
~~~
Que sea una historia sobre unicornios que tienen por vecinos a los dinosaurios podría crear la preconcepción de que es un libro aniñado. Y ciertamente está clasificado como infantil, y el lenguaje, desarrollo y narración son simplistas, pero las emociones y el mensaje que transmite es apto para todas las edades.
El primer 20 % del libro es tierno, un pequeño unicornio que gusta de retozar con sus amigos, jugarse bromas y escuchar las historias de los ancianos; pero muy pronto todo cambia, cuando se cumple el vaticinio de un joven dinosaurio: una bola de fuego ha caído en la tierra y las cenizas de los incendios y polvo ha ocultado el sol, muy pronto las plantas y las criaturas grandes han desaparecido. Aunque la manada de unicornios ha sobrevivido al apocalipsis y después de meses algunas plantas nuevas comienzan a brotar, su calvario está lejos de acabar, cuando los hombres se asientan en su idílico valle y empiezan a cazarlos. El resto del libro es más sombrío, pero las acciones valientes y decisivas de Azaria conservan el optimismo por el bien de los unicornios.
La autora pudo haberse extendido más en la creación de este mundo prehistórico alternativo, o en sus personajes, pero cumple bien en transmitir su mensaje. Es en la codicia del líder de los hombres por beneficiarse de los unicornios primero como montura (sin buenos resultados) y luego como medicina mágica cuando descubre sus poderes curativos, donde encontramos un mensaje muy actual, y así nos lo hace saber la autora en sus notas finales, comparando los hechos del libro con la caza indiscriminada de elefantes y rinocerontes en nuestros días.
En general es una lectura entretenida, y podría quedar perfectamente como libro único, aunque veo que hay una secuela.
¿Qué Disfruté?
La transición entre unicornios de pocos meses a jóvenes adultos está bien definida por su comportamiento de juguetón a más responsable. Fue bonito ver cómo fueron madurando y Azaria supo hacerle frente a sus nuevas circunstancias.
¿Qué Prefiero Olvidar?
Tal como en la vida misma, tener que despedirse de padres y amigos.
December 5, 2013
The Shadow of the Unicorn is a magical and fantastical adventure where the worlds of unicorns, dinosaurs, and humans collide. The story, as told through the eyes of the young unicorn Azaria, provides an engaging (albeit fictional) portrayal of what transpired after the asteroid thought to have led to the extinction of the dinosaurs strikes Earth. We first meet Azaria as a young foal when he and his father, Polaris the stallion of the unicorn herd, go to visit a nearby herd of dinosaurs. They meet Darius, a young dinosaur who foresees the devastation of Earth and the coming of an evil man, Ishmael, who will reign terror among the unicorns and will force them to go into hiding.
The unicorns witness the giant fireball streaming across the sky and landing with a thunderous crash. This signals the beginning of the end for the unicorns’ way of life as well as the extinction of all dinosaurs, except one who survives the ensuing devastation, Darius. Darius is taken in by the unicorns and raised among the herd until the humans arrive to settle into the valley alongside the unicorns. As predicted, Ishmael is motivated by greed and captures the unicorns. When the plague spreads amongst the villagers, Ishmael uses the unicorns’ magical healing powers and becomes a very wealthy man. But this comes at a great cost to the unicorn because their magic resides in their beautiful, spiraling horns and can only be harvested by killing them.
Suzanne de Montigny has done an outstanding job of creating a heinous villain in Ishmael who comes off as completely heartless (even in relation to his dying daughter). You can see the escalation of Ishmael’s bad behaviour from capturing the unicorns to mistreating them to killing them. We are privy to his thoughts as some chapters were written from his perspective and I just grew to despise him. I thought that balancing out his character with those of his wife Adiva and his daughter Ali was very well done. They provided the humanity and compassion by acting as Ishmael’s conscience. The author did a great job of exploring the consequences of human greed.
The overall pace of the story is very quick and the action is non-stop. There are so many great elements to the story including the living conditions and mass deaths of the unicorns after the asteroid strikes, the mentorship of Azaria by Darius in learning to “become one with his shadow”, the obsession of Ishmael with the unicorns, and the coming of age of the young unicorn who must lead the unicorn herd to safety. There is a whole lot of story packed into this one book! One warning though … there are some events that are quite brutal. The unicorns are killed by the humans and their horns are sawed off. Some sensitive children may be quite disturbed to read through those passages.
This last comment has to do with my inability as an adult to completely suspend disbelief (I’m just saying). While I am aware that some people may dispute this, it is my understanding that scientific evidence suggests that dinosaurs and humans did not even come close to co-existing. To be clear, in this story, there is overlap. I don’t have an issue with the author creating a fictional setting where unicorns, dinosaurs, and humans roamed the Earth at the same time. There is a disclaimer at the start of the book saying that this is a work of fiction; but, what I think is necessary for this particular book is a note stating some facts. This could be done with a statement such as “scientists believe that the dinosaurs last roamed the Earth 65 million years ago while the earliest Homo sapiens date back a mere 200,000 years”. Or perhaps, to show respect for those who may believe something different, to say that there is a debate about whether they co-existed. Regardless, I thought that the merging of these different creatures (i.e., unicorns, dinosaurs, and humans) was very creative and interesting.
My Bottom Line:
The Shadow of the Unicorn provides an innovative and interesting plotline exploring how the fictional unicorns, the extinct dinosaurs, and early humans may have interacted if they co-existed in a post-apocalyptic world. Suzanne de Montigny does an excellent job of exploring the themes of natural disasters and environmental change, human greed, compassion, and courage. At the end of the day, The Shadow of the Unicorn is an entertaining read that I think will be enjoyed by children who love the fantasy genre and are keen on reading about unicorns. Ages 9+
4.5 Stars
* I was given this book free-of-charge by the author in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
The unicorns witness the giant fireball streaming across the sky and landing with a thunderous crash. This signals the beginning of the end for the unicorns’ way of life as well as the extinction of all dinosaurs, except one who survives the ensuing devastation, Darius. Darius is taken in by the unicorns and raised among the herd until the humans arrive to settle into the valley alongside the unicorns. As predicted, Ishmael is motivated by greed and captures the unicorns. When the plague spreads amongst the villagers, Ishmael uses the unicorns’ magical healing powers and becomes a very wealthy man. But this comes at a great cost to the unicorn because their magic resides in their beautiful, spiraling horns and can only be harvested by killing them.
Suzanne de Montigny has done an outstanding job of creating a heinous villain in Ishmael who comes off as completely heartless (even in relation to his dying daughter). You can see the escalation of Ishmael’s bad behaviour from capturing the unicorns to mistreating them to killing them. We are privy to his thoughts as some chapters were written from his perspective and I just grew to despise him. I thought that balancing out his character with those of his wife Adiva and his daughter Ali was very well done. They provided the humanity and compassion by acting as Ishmael’s conscience. The author did a great job of exploring the consequences of human greed.
The overall pace of the story is very quick and the action is non-stop. There are so many great elements to the story including the living conditions and mass deaths of the unicorns after the asteroid strikes, the mentorship of Azaria by Darius in learning to “become one with his shadow”, the obsession of Ishmael with the unicorns, and the coming of age of the young unicorn who must lead the unicorn herd to safety. There is a whole lot of story packed into this one book! One warning though … there are some events that are quite brutal. The unicorns are killed by the humans and their horns are sawed off. Some sensitive children may be quite disturbed to read through those passages.
This last comment has to do with my inability as an adult to completely suspend disbelief (I’m just saying). While I am aware that some people may dispute this, it is my understanding that scientific evidence suggests that dinosaurs and humans did not even come close to co-existing. To be clear, in this story, there is overlap. I don’t have an issue with the author creating a fictional setting where unicorns, dinosaurs, and humans roamed the Earth at the same time. There is a disclaimer at the start of the book saying that this is a work of fiction; but, what I think is necessary for this particular book is a note stating some facts. This could be done with a statement such as “scientists believe that the dinosaurs last roamed the Earth 65 million years ago while the earliest Homo sapiens date back a mere 200,000 years”. Or perhaps, to show respect for those who may believe something different, to say that there is a debate about whether they co-existed. Regardless, I thought that the merging of these different creatures (i.e., unicorns, dinosaurs, and humans) was very creative and interesting.
My Bottom Line:
The Shadow of the Unicorn provides an innovative and interesting plotline exploring how the fictional unicorns, the extinct dinosaurs, and early humans may have interacted if they co-existed in a post-apocalyptic world. Suzanne de Montigny does an excellent job of exploring the themes of natural disasters and environmental change, human greed, compassion, and courage. At the end of the day, The Shadow of the Unicorn is an entertaining read that I think will be enjoyed by children who love the fantasy genre and are keen on reading about unicorns. Ages 9+
4.5 Stars
* I was given this book free-of-charge by the author in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 25, 2013
Review taken from my blog, The Haunting of Orchid Forsythia
The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy was perhaps one of the oddest books I have read in quite sometime. Odd because the two creatures that were found in the book were two that I would have never expected to see grace one book at the same time.
Suzanne de Montigny's The Legacy surprised me in so many ways. When I started reading it, there were a few things I was unprepared for, like, the presence of dinosaurs and a certain meteorite crash. While those two factors caught me off guard, I really enjoyed the way the author used them in her book and how it took the story on a whole new course.
One of the reasons I enjoyed reading Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy so much was that there was a lot of character development throughout the book and because I enjoyed the way the author used the events of the asteroid/meteorite strike to bring about the changes that would dictate whether or not the unicorns would learn to adapt to survive.
It was definitely interesting for me to see how Azaria went from a goofy colt more interested in proving his worth to his father to a solid and strong leader who would take his people down the next road in life. Azaria's evolved so much throughout the book that you would hardly recognize him from the first third of the book, but while he did change, you could still see the young colt that he started out as. Like I said, it was interesting to see all the character transitions in The Legacy and the fact that it was done so smoothly makes it all the better.
Below, I mention what I did not like about this book, but right now I want t tell y'all why I ended up enjoying The Legacy so much. What I really enjoyed about this book is that it was original because I don't think you are ever going to find another book that will have both unicorns and dinosaurs occupying the same time in history (although, we all know unicorns aren't real). What I liked about Suzanne de Montigny's use of unicorns and dinosaurs was that as characters they were written quite well. What really made them interesting though was the that as the book progressed you saw how the peril's predicted by Darius changed both groups...or what was left of both species.
While The Legacy ended up being quite an entertaining read, I must say that the only thing that kept me from fulling loving this one is because it was a little weird to be reading a book that had both unicorns and dinosaurs in it. Don't get me wrong I really enjoyed it because it was so different, but it was just a little weird when the dinosaurs were first brought into the picture. So, while it an an unexpected element to the story I found it to be interesting how the author made it work for the her book. This is definitely one book that you can not judge without at least giving it a shot. Who knows, it may just surprise you.
Final Verdict: Unicorns, dinosaurs, and potential destruction...need I say more.
The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy earns 4 out of 5 pineapples
The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy was perhaps one of the oddest books I have read in quite sometime. Odd because the two creatures that were found in the book were two that I would have never expected to see grace one book at the same time.
Suzanne de Montigny's The Legacy surprised me in so many ways. When I started reading it, there were a few things I was unprepared for, like, the presence of dinosaurs and a certain meteorite crash. While those two factors caught me off guard, I really enjoyed the way the author used them in her book and how it took the story on a whole new course.
One of the reasons I enjoyed reading Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy so much was that there was a lot of character development throughout the book and because I enjoyed the way the author used the events of the asteroid/meteorite strike to bring about the changes that would dictate whether or not the unicorns would learn to adapt to survive.
It was definitely interesting for me to see how Azaria went from a goofy colt more interested in proving his worth to his father to a solid and strong leader who would take his people down the next road in life. Azaria's evolved so much throughout the book that you would hardly recognize him from the first third of the book, but while he did change, you could still see the young colt that he started out as. Like I said, it was interesting to see all the character transitions in The Legacy and the fact that it was done so smoothly makes it all the better.
Below, I mention what I did not like about this book, but right now I want t tell y'all why I ended up enjoying The Legacy so much. What I really enjoyed about this book is that it was original because I don't think you are ever going to find another book that will have both unicorns and dinosaurs occupying the same time in history (although, we all know unicorns aren't real). What I liked about Suzanne de Montigny's use of unicorns and dinosaurs was that as characters they were written quite well. What really made them interesting though was the that as the book progressed you saw how the peril's predicted by Darius changed both groups...or what was left of both species.
While The Legacy ended up being quite an entertaining read, I must say that the only thing that kept me from fulling loving this one is because it was a little weird to be reading a book that had both unicorns and dinosaurs in it. Don't get me wrong I really enjoyed it because it was so different, but it was just a little weird when the dinosaurs were first brought into the picture. So, while it an an unexpected element to the story I found it to be interesting how the author made it work for the her book. This is definitely one book that you can not judge without at least giving it a shot. Who knows, it may just surprise you.
Final Verdict: Unicorns, dinosaurs, and potential destruction...need I say more.
The Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy earns 4 out of 5 pineapples
May 17, 2013
I was lucky enough to be introduced to Suzanne de Montigny through a friend of mine. I received the book and began reading with only knowing that it was written for a middle-grade audience. I must say, I very much enjoyed the book and have recommended it to my friends with children in this age group.
The cast of characters runs the gamut from the playful Nathaniel and Zackary to the more mature Azaria to the intriguing, admirable, and gifted Darius. Polaris is the perfect strong leader that works hard to care for his herd but yet is able to show his own range of emotions. Ishmael's family pulls at the heart strings, especially his little girl. I have this picture of her in my mind, and it makes me hope I could have a daughter like her. I wish I could go on, but I'm afraid to spoil it!
It's a great read and highly recommended!
The cast of characters runs the gamut from the playful Nathaniel and Zackary to the more mature Azaria to the intriguing, admirable, and gifted Darius. Polaris is the perfect strong leader that works hard to care for his herd but yet is able to show his own range of emotions. Ishmael's family pulls at the heart strings, especially his little girl. I have this picture of her in my mind, and it makes me hope I could have a daughter like her. I wish I could go on, but I'm afraid to spoil it!
It's a great read and highly recommended!
January 16, 2013
This book is one of those book that I really love to read. As a mother speaking I think this book is suitable for 7 to 12 years old. I love that Suzanne has created something different from the things I've already read about unicorns. Since my boy Jace is already 8 years old I think I'd let him read the book and decide from himself. As a mother I think the message of the story is simple but conveyed perfectly in the story, I would love to pass that to my child. It's something that I think my children would really enjoy. If you're a mom as well you should definitely read this one, if you're a tween you better not pass the chance because it's one of those books that I would really recommend for you to read.
April 15, 2013
"A loud, hissing sound filled the air. The unicorns looked up, their eyes filled with horror."
With this exciting and intriguing introduction, Suzanne de Montigny commences her marvelous fantasy, THE SHADOW OF THE UNICORN, THE LEGACY. Soon we meet Azaria, a unicorn colt, Darius, a young clairvoyant dinosaur, and the greedy and ruthless leader of the creatures who walk on two legs. Fantasy devotees of all ages should love this wonderful story told with a congenial and charming pen.
Readers should also be aware thst twenty percent of all proceeds from sale of the book will go to the Third World Eye Care Society, a group of eye specialists who travel to third world countries delivering thousands of pairs of glasses, and performing eye surgery for free.
With this exciting and intriguing introduction, Suzanne de Montigny commences her marvelous fantasy, THE SHADOW OF THE UNICORN, THE LEGACY. Soon we meet Azaria, a unicorn colt, Darius, a young clairvoyant dinosaur, and the greedy and ruthless leader of the creatures who walk on two legs. Fantasy devotees of all ages should love this wonderful story told with a congenial and charming pen.
Readers should also be aware thst twenty percent of all proceeds from sale of the book will go to the Third World Eye Care Society, a group of eye specialists who travel to third world countries delivering thousands of pairs of glasses, and performing eye surgery for free.
January 28, 2013
Unicorn in the title is what drew me to this story, as I'm sure it also attract young readers especially girls. They will love the main characters of Darius and Azaria (a dinosaur and a unicorn).
It is always good to see the world from a different perspective, and Suzanne shows the greed of humans through the dinosaurs and unicorns' eyes.
As mentioned by others, Darius teaching Azaria to become invisible is delightful, and kids may even try this themselves!
Boys 8-10 will like this because of the dinosaurs, and girls 8-12 will like this because of the unicorns.
May be some tears shed at the end of this story so be forewarned.
It is always good to see the world from a different perspective, and Suzanne shows the greed of humans through the dinosaurs and unicorns' eyes.
As mentioned by others, Darius teaching Azaria to become invisible is delightful, and kids may even try this themselves!
Boys 8-10 will like this because of the dinosaurs, and girls 8-12 will like this because of the unicorns.
May be some tears shed at the end of this story so be forewarned.
March 24, 2014
Polaris, leader of a herd of unicorns, is summoned by Saul, chief of the dinosaurs. Polaris takes his son, Azaria, and his young friend, Gaelan, to the distant land of the dinosaurs. There they are introduced to a young long neck that can see the future. He tells them of coming changes and warns of the two-legged creature.
They don’t understand, but watch for the signs. The first sign comes quickly changing their world in an instant. At first they think the Sun fell from the sky, but Earth recovers. The unicorns have many trials and lessons in this mid-grade book. It is a delightful story for girls or boys.
They don’t understand, but watch for the signs. The first sign comes quickly changing their world in an instant. At first they think the Sun fell from the sky, but Earth recovers. The unicorns have many trials and lessons in this mid-grade book. It is a delightful story for girls or boys.
July 10, 2013
This story pulled me in with a beautiful portrayal of a time and place where unicorns and dinosaurs live side by side. It moved me forward with unexpected twist and turns (a requirement in any good story). I found it hard to put the book down and was totally engaged in seeing the young characters (unicorns and dinosaurs) survive and grow because of the challenges they faced. I also like how the writer used greed in the story, and natural disaster at the beginning of the book seems to be based on one of the theories as to what actually killed the dinosaurs (which I loved—feels like the writer did her research). This is a book I will definitely loan to my children for a summer read.
July 2, 2013
I loved this book! For years I've avoided a YA book. No particular reason, but then, the unicorn caught my attention. Then I saw the video and bought it. Glad I did. What a wonderfully written story. Unicorns growing up. Meeting dinosaurs and living in harmony. Then, the unthinkable happens. Always a villain, but this villain is nasty and my heart when out to the poor critters. I finished this book, but didn't want it to end. Congrats to Suzanne with her debut novel. Full marks for this one.
January 11, 2013
So I’m not sure if I’ve read a story before where the main character isn’t a human, but it was a nice change. Unicorns and dinosaurs are an interesting mix, and Suzanne pulls it off well with this brilliant fantasy read.
It was a little hard to get into this book, but once I did I enjoyed it. It is a fast paced novel after the beginning and it was very descriptive, which I loved! There is a great message in this book, I won’t spoil it…you’re gonna have to read it to get the message!
It was a little hard to get into this book, but once I did I enjoyed it. It is a fast paced novel after the beginning and it was very descriptive, which I loved! There is a great message in this book, I won’t spoil it…you’re gonna have to read it to get the message!
January 31, 2013
What a delightfully unique book. Unicorns and dinosaurs facing changing conditions. Darius is a young dinosaur capable of seeing the future. Azaria is a young unicorn who becomes a friend and learns from Darius.
Yes, there are humans in this book. They are the villains of the story. Greedy beasts.
I think both boys and girls will love this story. Very quick paced and easy to read. A delightful story, and I look forward to more from this author.
Yes, there are humans in this book. They are the villains of the story. Greedy beasts.
I think both boys and girls will love this story. Very quick paced and easy to read. A delightful story, and I look forward to more from this author.
December 21, 2012
This fantasy world of dinosaurs and unicorns comes to life on the pages. It is a book that is hard to put down because you care so much for the unicorns. My favorite part of the book is when Darius a dinosaur teaches Azaria a unicorn how to be a ghost. Great read for any child.
August 26, 2013
Long, long ago lived the unicorns and dinosaurs. Then came the fireball hurtling toward earth, and their world would never be the same. Strange creatures that walked on two legs appeared, bringing with them danger and death. Soon the unicorns were in a struggle to survive. Award Winning Author Suzanne de Montigny tells their story in her MG/Tween Fantasy, THE SHADOW OF THE UNICORN.
Azaria, unicorn colt, and his father, Polaris, receive a message from Saul the Great Chief asking them to go where the dinosaurs dwell. That’s a scary request because the dinosaurs are huge animals and dangerous, but they go anyway and meet Darius, a small dinosaur that tells strange tales, tales the unicorns cannot ignore, for they soon come true, and the creatures that walk on two feet (humans) arrive in the valley, bringing greed, torture, and death with them, threatening to wipe out the entire unicorn herd. I don’t want to give anything away, just let me say that Suzanne de Montigny has written a story that will have you laughing, crying, and falling in love with not only the unicorns, especially Azaria, but with the little dinosaur Darius, also, whose warnings they’d best heed. I found myself wishing I wasn’t a human at times, for the cruelty the human Ishmael shows to the unicorns, who only want to live in peace.
THE SHADOW OF THE UNICORN would make a great addition to school libraries and classrooms to show how greed and the choices a person makes, whether right or wrong, affect those who make the decisions as well as others. This is the first book in a series, so be on the lookout for book number two for the further adventures of Azaria and the unicorns.
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Azaria, unicorn colt, and his father, Polaris, receive a message from Saul the Great Chief asking them to go where the dinosaurs dwell. That’s a scary request because the dinosaurs are huge animals and dangerous, but they go anyway and meet Darius, a small dinosaur that tells strange tales, tales the unicorns cannot ignore, for they soon come true, and the creatures that walk on two feet (humans) arrive in the valley, bringing greed, torture, and death with them, threatening to wipe out the entire unicorn herd. I don’t want to give anything away, just let me say that Suzanne de Montigny has written a story that will have you laughing, crying, and falling in love with not only the unicorns, especially Azaria, but with the little dinosaur Darius, also, whose warnings they’d best heed. I found myself wishing I wasn’t a human at times, for the cruelty the human Ishmael shows to the unicorns, who only want to live in peace.
THE SHADOW OF THE UNICORN would make a great addition to school libraries and classrooms to show how greed and the choices a person makes, whether right or wrong, affect those who make the decisions as well as others. This is the first book in a series, so be on the lookout for book number two for the further adventures of Azaria and the unicorns.
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December 1, 2016
A good read for middle graders. First in a promising series.
This is a charming story starting in prehistoric times, when dinosaurs and unicorns roamed the earth. But the fireball, or asteroid, creates catastrophic changes, and the dinosaurs die out, leaving the unicorns struggling to survive – and then the two-legged animals arrive.
There is a considerable amount of humans-ruining-paradise in this book, although it turns out to be mainly one human as the ringleader. The tale is well told, but as with One Dollar Horse, it relies on a common enough theme. The author’s descriptions are vivid, and give a real sense of place, and that helps to draw you in to the problems the unicorns face. The solution is inevitable, and as book 1 in the series, really sets the scene for a fantasy world of the adventures of the unicorns (I hope without too much human involvement).
This is a charming story starting in prehistoric times, when dinosaurs and unicorns roamed the earth. But the fireball, or asteroid, creates catastrophic changes, and the dinosaurs die out, leaving the unicorns struggling to survive – and then the two-legged animals arrive.
There is a considerable amount of humans-ruining-paradise in this book, although it turns out to be mainly one human as the ringleader. The tale is well told, but as with One Dollar Horse, it relies on a common enough theme. The author’s descriptions are vivid, and give a real sense of place, and that helps to draw you in to the problems the unicorns face. The solution is inevitable, and as book 1 in the series, really sets the scene for a fantasy world of the adventures of the unicorns (I hope without too much human involvement).
December 23, 2012
Suzanne has created a modern fable suitable for children aged between 8 and 12. Speaking as an ex-teacher, I can't see too many boys interested in a fantasy world of unicorns, but that's not to say they wouldn't be. Woven into the story of the unicorns and their nemesis, the human protagonist, is a message about preservation and conservation of wildlife, greed, inappropriate behaviour and its consequences, and loyalty. The characters are endearing and engaging, and there are some very clever plot development points. Perhaps somewhere out there, hidden from us by shadow dancing and becoming one with the land, is a colony of unicorns, waiting for us to become a sensible group of humans so that we can share in their magical powers.
September 13, 2013
Ms. de Montigny's The Shadow Of The Unicorn is a great book, particularly for middle grade aged readers. It unwinds a tale about Azaria, a young unicorn, and how he matures and rises to the occasion to save his endangered species from a new threat in the form of a particularly heinous human. Most unusual is the wise sage character, Darius, who is a dinosaur, the last of his kind. Kudos to Ms. de Montigny for writing an original variation on the fantasy epic--unicorns intermingling with dinosaurs! The book's themes include the humane and environmental concerns that Watership Down and the films of Hayao Miyazaki have in common. If you have a middle grader or are just young at heart, pick up The Shadow Of The Unicorn.
April 8, 2014
Shadow of the Unicorn: The Legacy was a fun, MG tale about a land with unicorns and dinosaurs. This cleverly crafted story brought to mind The Enormous Egg, by Oliver Butterworth, and the Land Before Time movies.
I loved the interaction between the young unicorns, Azaria and Gaelan, and their dinosaur friend, Darius. The friendships shown were so realistic and fun to see playing out on the page.
Through her characters Ms. de Montigny teaches us many lessons. One that stuck with me was how when mistakes are made that result in high penalties, trust isn't easily given, but redemption can still be found.
Azaria truly grows throughout this book, and I can't wait to see what's in store for Darius in the future.
I loved the interaction between the young unicorns, Azaria and Gaelan, and their dinosaur friend, Darius. The friendships shown were so realistic and fun to see playing out on the page.
Through her characters Ms. de Montigny teaches us many lessons. One that stuck with me was how when mistakes are made that result in high penalties, trust isn't easily given, but redemption can still be found.
Azaria truly grows throughout this book, and I can't wait to see what's in store for Darius in the future.
August 11, 2013
The Shadow of the Unicorn is a must-read for all unicorn lovers, but even more so for the ones, like my self, who hadn’t read anything about them yet. It is a thrilling and encouraging story about a young unicorn that has to save his herd after a meteor nearly destroyed their environment and killed the dinosaurs. Suzanne de Montigny created a compelling universe with believable characters and a great adventure story to challenge them with. While the story finishes in this book, I can’t wait to read about the new adventures the unicorns will face.
July 4, 2013
A fantastic story built in the world of unicorns, where friendship, choices, and loyalties help the herd survive a catastrophic natural event and the appearance of a greedy and ruthless human. Suzanne de Montigny creates a magnificent world in dramatic transition around the loss of dinosaurs, the rise of man, and the changes forced upon the unicorn herd in order to survive.
June 20, 2014
It's been a long time since I read a YA book, but I'm glad I picked this one up. It's cute and sad and has a great moral. Unicorns and dragons. A perfect read. Well done. A recommend!
November 8, 2018
This is a delightful tale of unicorns and even a few dinosaur at a time when the world was changing. Combining science of Earth’s past and wonderful myth, this book is perfect for readers of all ages who love fantasy.
Azaria is a young unicorn, fathered by the Great Stallion. One day he will take his father’s place as Great Stallion, leader of their herd.
Polaris, Azaria’s father, takes him to meet the dinosaurs who live in the next valley. They have been summoned by the leader. There is a young dinosaur who is a seer. He has made a dire prediction the dinosaurs want to share.
This seer has predicted a great change in the world. Many animals and dinosaurs will be killed. There is also a coming threat from one of the species that comes after. Will these predictions come true? How will the unicorns survive if so many species are to die?
Join Azaria and his herd. Find out the fate of the unicorns when the world turns dark!
Instafreebie edition
Azaria is a young unicorn, fathered by the Great Stallion. One day he will take his father’s place as Great Stallion, leader of their herd.
Polaris, Azaria’s father, takes him to meet the dinosaurs who live in the next valley. They have been summoned by the leader. There is a young dinosaur who is a seer. He has made a dire prediction the dinosaurs want to share.
This seer has predicted a great change in the world. Many animals and dinosaurs will be killed. There is also a coming threat from one of the species that comes after. Will these predictions come true? How will the unicorns survive if so many species are to die?
Join Azaria and his herd. Find out the fate of the unicorns when the world turns dark!
Instafreebie edition
August 24, 2017
This is a very good book. Very interesting. A real page turner.
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