McDonald, Megan. Sophie and the Runaway Unicorn. Erwin Madrid, Illus. Judy Moody and Friends; bk. 16. Candlewick, 07/2025. 60pp. Reader. Trade $14.99. 978-1-5362-3056-7. GRADES 2–3. ADDITIONAL.
Stink helps his second-grade classmate Sophie prepare for her birthday party–more than anything, she would like for a unicorn to be able to attend! When one is spotted in the neighborhood, does that mean she is going to get her wish? With a text set down in paragraphs, considerable white space, a large typeface, and full-color digital artwork, this book with three chapters is aimed at those almost ready to move up from beginning readers to transitional books. The artwork is colorful but resembles animated television, and several of the characters are dark- skinned. A serviceable series for those who like DiCamillo’s Mercy Watson books.
Penny Peck—San José State University iSchool