Common Sense Media Review
By Stephanie Snyder
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Funny, colorful tale of acceptance has positive messages.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
LAYLA, THE LAST BLACK UNICORN has a hard time beginning a new school year at Unicornia, the school for unicorns. For starters, she's not like the other unicorns -- she's black instead of pastel-colored, she comes from the woods and not the city, and she doesn't know how to play hornball like everyone else. She tries hard to fit in, but her efforts aren't enough to ward off taunts and jeers from Babsy Baby and Peachy Pink. A field trip to the woods gives Layla an opportunity to shine and emerge as a hero. Ultimately, she learns a valuable lesson about being true to herself.
Is It Any Good?
Laughs, life lessons, and a splash of Tiffany Haddish make this an entertaining read. Layla, the Last Black Unicorn is colorful, vibrant, and features characters popular among young readers: unicorns, fairies, and other magical beings. Jerdine Nolen's storytelling and Tiffany Haddish's hilarity combine for an age-old story with a modern-day flair that grown-ups -- both fans of the popular comedian and those not familiar -- will also appreciate. Through all the amusement, the important message to be yourself rings loud and clear.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about uniqueness in Layla, the Last Black Unicorn. What made Layla unique among the other unicorns? What makes you unique? Why is it important to always be yourself?
Layla has a loyal team of friends like Trevin, Olivia Fairy, Celia Cat, and Gwendolyn Goblin. Why are these characters important? Who are your supporters? How do they encourage you to be your best?
How do you think Layla feels at the end of the book? How do you think the other unicorns will treat her now?
Book Details
- Authors :
- Illustrator : Jessica Gibson
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Harper
- Publication date : May 10, 2022
- Number of pages : 32
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
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