Skandar and the Unicorn Thief

What do our readers think of Skandar and the Unicorn Thief? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy the fast-moving adventure, imaginative unicorns and exciting magical battles, and many especially like Skandar’s friendships. Some children find the unicorns and darker parts of the story frightening, but they still describe the book as gripping and fun.

What does the Pageticker team say about Skandar and the Unicorn Thief?

We love the way this thrilling fantasy turns unicorns into fierce, unpredictable creatures rather than gentle fairy-tale animals. In this first-of-a-series, Skandar’s adventures combine elemental magic, exciting sky battles and a strong story about friendship, loyalty and finding where you belong. It is a great choice for confident fantasy readers aged 8–13, although parents and carers should be aware of frightening creatures, peril and scenes of magical violence.

Genres

What is Skandar and the Unicorn Thief about?

Thirteen-year-old Skandar Smith dreams of becoming a unicorn rider, bonding with a unicorn, and racing for glory. However, when the Island's most powerful unicorn is stolen, Skandar is thrust into a perilous adventure filled with elemental magic, sky battles, and ancient secrets. As he uncovers a dark enemy's plot, Skandar must confront challenges that could change his world forever.

About the author

A. F. Steadman is a British author best known for writing the exciting fantasy series Skandar and the Unicorn Thief. She loves creating magical worlds filled with adventure and unusual creatures. When she isn’t writing, A. F. Steadman enjoys reading stories and spending time outdoors, always looking for new ideas for her next book.

Discussion ideas around Skandar and the Unicorn Thief

Unicorns with a difference: How does the book’s depiction of fierce, dangerous unicorns change the way you think about these creatures in traditional stories?

Finding your place: Skandar wants to become a unicorn rider, but he also wants to feel accepted and understood. How do these wishes affect the choices he makes?

The strength of friendship: What helps Skandar and the other riders learn to trust one another, even when they have different personalities and secrets?

Family and responsibility: How do Skandar’s family experiences shape his hopes and fears, and what does the story suggest about supporting someone who is struggling?

Power and rules: Who gets to decide which kinds of magic are acceptable, and what might happen when rules are based on fear rather than understanding?