I have had such a run of great books to review in the last few weeks. This is up there with one of my favourites. It is another one that I first noticed floating around on instagram, and I should really start giving instagram more credit, because my gosh – this book is fantastic.
The cover is what initially drew me into this beauty.
A unicorn… maybe some rainbows… a little bubble helmet.
Yes. Please.
The title “Not Quite Narwhal” is also the thing that grabbed the attention it just rolls of the tongue.
Upon opening this book I knew I was in for something special. Even just touching the cover in all it’s shiny glory is an experience in itself.
Then on the first page you are greeted with this.
A unicorn. In a shell. In a sleepsuit.
I can now die of happiness. It is probably the cutest thing I have ever seen. Every page has this actual physical shiny feel to it and makes the whole experience kind of magical.
The story follows a little unicorn ‘Kelp’ (great name choice) who lives with Narwhals under the sea. He knows he isn’t quite like them, but is okay with that. He isn’t a great swimmer (very logically so) and doesn’t like their food much. But he is totally chill about it and loves his life under the sea.
“He knew early on that he was different from the other narwhals… But his friends didn’t seem to mind, so Kelp decided he wouldn’t either”.
That is until one day he floats up to the surface a sees a creature that is just like him. Following this is a tale of home and belonging and remembering where you come from. And it is just wonderful, sweet and truly beautiful.
I love this book. From the super sweet memorable illustrations, to the adorable character of Kelp, to the themes and sense of belonging. I just love love love it. This is one I will be buying in bulk and handing out for birthday presents for little ones for sure. It even has little hints of humour, making it extra enjoyable. It is also a surprisingly quick read with minimal, but very focused, text. So is great for a big range of ages.
A beautiful whimsical book that will leave you with a sense of wonder and magic. Highly recommend!
To check out more the author illustrator, check out her website here.
Title: Not Quite Narwhal
Author/Illustrator: Jessie Sima
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published: 2017
Ages: 4+
Ragamuffin Books 
Aww, I think my heart just melted! 😍 Thank you for such an adorable review. I will definitely bear this book in mind for when anyone asks for children’s book recommendations.
📕MP📚 X
LikeLike