Unicorn in New York: Louie Lets Loose

This uniquely illustrated short story book is well suited to children who are just moving on from picture books. It combines genuine photographs with child-like drawings that young readers will find funny and engaging.

The bustling chaos of New York is a serious culture shock for anyone… especially when you live in the land of fairy tales and spend your days chasing cakes and rainbows. Yet Louie the unicorn is not daunted in the slightest. New York is the home of stage and stardom and he is ready for fame!

Louie is adorably clueless regarding life in the real world. He is flabbergasted when asked to pay for something as delicious and important as cakes, though, thankfully, his horn helps him find employment – it is an excellent device for poking holes in doughnuts.  Though he may be naïve, Louie certainly doesn’t lack confidence. He understands without a doubt that the whole world revolves around him and thanks everyone for their generosity when he hears ‘Simply the Best’ being played!

Unfortunately for Louie, not everyone finds this unbridled positivity endearing. Arnie is the only unicorn that matters in New York and he is keen for things to stay that way. A sinister mirror image of Louie, Arnie frequently attempts to sabotage Louie’s plans for celebrity. Yet Louie is completely unable to see a glass as anything other than half-full. He views Arnie’s attempts to trip him up as offers of high-fives and the ripping down of his posters as part of a fun game… it’s a wonderful way to see the world.

Hamilton’s story is an ingenious interpretation of the unicorn’s place in popular culture. For children, unicorns embody blissful happiness and mindless magic, and there are plenty of laughs to be had when this is contrasted with the tension and stress of modern city-life. Though there are few moments of genuine excitement or drama, the narrative remains satisfyingly silly throughout and the imaginative illustrations will help to sustain children’s interest in the series.