The Unicorn and the Lake

Written by Marianna Mayer
Illustrated by Michael Hague

Grade:

2-4

ISBN-13:

978-0803793378

Publisher:

Dial (1982)

When hunters’ relentless pursuit of the unicorn forces him to hide in the mountains, harmony and magic leave the animal kingdom. Each animal is left to defend themselves against the evil serpent that guards the lake where they drink. When a drought comes, the animals of the valley and the forest become desperate for water and are unable to fight off the serpent. From the mountaintop, the unicorn hears the cry of all the animals and pierces the clouds for rain. As water fills the lake, the animals rejoice while the serpent looks on with anger. In his anger the serpent poisons the lake with his venom, and when the unicorn comes to help, engages in a battle of good versus evil with the unicorn. This captivating and beautifully illustrated tale splendidly depicts the power of courage, kindness, and magnanimity against the forces of evil.