THE TRUTH ABOUT UNICORNS

HarperCollins, 1991. 1st Edition 1st Printing. Hardcover. As New/New. B&W illustrations by Michael McDermott; Color photos tapestries section. CONDITION: What makes this book AS NEW? It appears unread but I'm just uncomfortable calling it "new." AS NEW 1991 HarperCollins hardcover (vanilla boards) and dust jacket (in mylar cover), first edition, first printing. B&W illustrations by Michael McDermott; Color photos of tapestries featuring Unicorns section. CONTENT: Giblin's meticulously researched text examines the historical, mythical, religious and physical significance of the unicorn. He describes unicornlike creatures that have existed through the ages, beginning with a "dinosaur unicorn" that lived 120 million years ago. Also documented is the appearance of unicorns in writings by Greeks and Romans, tales from ancient China and the accounts of Marco Polo and other European explorers. An insert of color photos accompanies a detailed interpretation of the renowned Franco-Flemish Unicorn tapestries. The recurrent appeal of the mythical beast is explained by the magical properties attributed to its shining horn, the linkage to the Christian story, and the intriguing pictorial renditions of the creature. Finally, Giblin examines some contemporary "unicorns," from a goat with a transplanted horn featured in the 1985 Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus to the endangered Indian rhino. McDermott's carefully rendered, dramatic drawings complement the volume's many intriguing prints and photos. Through somewhat heavy going for the casual reader, this fact- and legend-filled book will be of great interest to youngsters fascinated by the elusive unicorn. Ages 8-12.