Agent Unicorn

A blue unicorn detective proves to be a bit green behind the ears. A big fan of TV's Agent Sparrow, Unicorn responds to a "help wanted" ad from the Agent Goat Detective Agency. Though the job's less than glamorous--it involves wiping windows and sweeping--Unicorn sees it as a stepping stone to becoming a full-fledged agent, complete with the requisite jacket and gadgetry. When a client walks in searching for a missing pet bird, Unicorn immediately takes the case, qualifications or no. Nothing will prevent Unicorn from solving the case, not even Goat constantly calling over the radio to ask about Unicorn's whereabouts. Though the missing pet pops up right away, Unicorn mistakes the bird for a rabbit but allows the "bunny" to tag along. Unicorn has a lot to learn about actual detective work but is willing to atone for making humorously oblivious mistakes. Eventually, Unicorn realizes that humility is a more important quality than possessing the right uniform and gadgets. Made up of graphic novel--esque panels, the cartoon artwork is full of details that encourage careful viewing. Goat mentions needing to find a missing yo-yo and a lost llama; attentive readers will be rewarded by a glimpse of the llama walking off with the yo-yo. References to Agent Sparrow appear throughout the story, often as background details. An accidental training day where doing the right thing beats flashy appearances. (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.