Friday, February 17, 2017

NOT QUITE NARWHAL by Jessie Sima / Book Review



Written & Illustrated by: Jessie Sima
Published by: Simon & Schuster
Released on: February 14th 2017
Ages: 4 & up
Purchase from: Simon & Schuster | Amazon | B&N
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Rating: 5 Owlets - We Loved It
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review

In the tradition of Uni the Unicorn and Gaston, this heartwarming and adorable debut picture book tells the story of a young unicorn who was born under the sea to a family of narwhals.

Growing up in the ocean, Kelp has always assumed that he was a narwhal like the rest of his family. Sure, he’s always been a little bit different—his tusk isn’t as long, he’s not as good of a swimmer, and he really doesn’t enjoy the cuisine. Then one night, an extra strong current sweeps Kelp to the surface, where he spots a mysterious creature that looks just like him! Kelp discovers that he and the creature are actually unicorns. The revelation leaves him torn: is he a land narwhal or a sea unicorn? But perhaps, if Kelp is clever, he may find a way to have the best of both worlds.

Told with heartwarming illustrations and spare, sweet text, Jessie Sima’s debut picture book is about fitting in, standing out, and the all-encompassing love of family.


This is one of the cutest picture books I've read. Seriously, it doesn't get much better when you have a unicorn and a narwhal in a story together. Especially when the unicorn thinks he's a narwhal. Part of this book's story is Kelp realizing what he is, and figuring out how he can have the best of both worlds. The one he grew up in, and the one he knows he know belongs to. 

Kelp has never minded growing up the only unicorn in a sea of narwhals. He has always felt at home with them, and they've always treated him like he was one of them. When Kelp unexpectedly finds a land full of unicorns, he feels at home there too. When he begins to miss the sea, and the narwhals, Kelp has to make a decision. How does he choose between places he feels at home in?


I absolutely loved this book. From the adorable illustrations, to the engaging, and entertaining story, and it's wonderful message that readers of all ages will understand. I love that this book is about being happy with who you are, being kind to everyone, standing out, and the unconditional love that comes from family.


This is one book I would highly recommend picking up! I'm really torn on what I love more, the illustrations or the story. This picture book is a must have! Trust me, you'll know why when you pick it up and read it. 


I would be most content if my children grew up to be the kind of people who think decorating consists mostly of building enough bookshelves. ~ Anna Quindlen

Good children's literature appeals not only to
the child in the adult, but to the adult in the child.
~ Anonymous ~