From Carolyn Turgeon, editor in chief of Enchanted Living and author of The Faerie Handbook and The Mermaid Handbook, comes this exquisitely illustrated and beautifully designed lifestyle compendium, a complete guide to the world of unicorns covering fashion and beauty; arts and culture; and home, food, and entertaining with step-by-step crafts and recipes.
Strong, regal, and dazzling, there is no more romantic a creature in both folklore and pop culture than the majestic unicorn. Known for its preference for solitary living in the depths of enchanted and perfumed forests, the unicorn will only occasionally reveal itself to virginal ladies and/or save the day with its magical horn, which is said to neutralize poison when dipped into food or drink.
In medieval times, unicorns were a symbol of chivalry and aristocracy, so its no surprise that they became the ideal companion for gallant knights, and eventually, the symbol of Jesus in many illuminated bestiaries. They also came to represent unknown danger in the ancient city of Persepolis in 515 BCE, a belief immortalized on the British coat of arms with the unicorn shown as the mighty lions fiercest opponent. This feud also appears in a traditional English nursery that was the origin of the quarrel between The Lion and the Unicorn in Lewis Carrolls Through the Looking-Glass.
It wasnt long before a piece of the unicorns mane, blood, and horn became hot commodity in mans pursuit for immortality. Today, unicorns can be found in modern tales like Harry Potter, television shows like My Little Pony, colorful Lisa Frank-inspired fashion and makeup trends, and must-have food crazes like the Unicorn Frappuccino and bagels.
Divided into four sections: flora and fauna; fashion and beauty; arts and culture; home, food, and entertainingThe Unicorn Handbook is the ultimate compilation and guidebook filled with step-by-step projects and recipes throughout. Learn how to make your very own unicorn tail loop braid or unicorn dust for that extra sparkle in your life. There are recipes to make a plum cake straight from the world of Alice in Wonderland and tips on how to throw the most unique garden party ever (complete with instructions on how to make unicorn horn table favors and utensils). And theres also an exclusive interview with Peter S. Beagle, the author of the classic tale The Last Unicorn.
Discover the enchanting world of unicorns with *The Unicorn Handbook: A Spellbinding Collection of Literature, Lore, Art, Recipes, and Projects,* a beautifully crafted hardcover edition that promises to infuse your life with magic and wonder. Authored by Carolyn Turgeon, the esteemed editor-in-chief of *Enchanted Living* and the creative mind behind *The Faerie Handbook* and *The Mermaid Handbook*, this book serves as a comprehensive guide to all things unicorn, blending historical context with modern applications for the discerning unicorn enthusiast. More than just a whimsical collection of images, *The Unicorn Handbook* delves into the rich history and symbolism of these mythical creatures. From their ancient representation of danger in Persepolis to their role as symbols of chivalry and purity in medieval bestiaries, the book traces the unicorn's evolution through art, literature, and folklore. Explore how the unicorn's image has been reinterpreted across various cultures and eras, influencing everything from fashion and beauty trends to culinary creations. Turgeon expertly curates a collection of engaging content divided into four thematic sections: flora and fauna, fashion and beauty, arts and culture, and home, food, and entertaining. Immerse yourself in the natural world of unicorns, discover how to channel your inner unicorn through dazzling makeup and wardrobe choices, and explore the artistic legacy inspired by these majestic creatures. Get ready to unleash your creativity with a plethora of DIY projects and delectable recipes. Unleash your inner artist with step-by-step instructions on crafting a unicorn tail loop braid or creating enchanting unicorn dust to add a touch of sparkle to everyday life. Indulge your culinary desires with a plum cake recipe inspired by *Alice in Wonderland*, and learn how to host a magical garden party complete with handmade unicorn horn table favors and whimsical utensil decorations. Beyond the practical projects and recipes, *The Unicorn Handbook* offers a deeper exploration of the unicorn's place in contemporary culture. Discover its appearances in modern fantasy narratives like *Harry Potter* and animated series like *My Little Pony*. The book further investigates unicorn-themed fashion, makeup, and the unicorn food craze that took the world by storm. A highlight of this enchanting volume is an exclusive interview with Peter S. Beagle, the legendary author of the timeless classic *The Last Unicorn*. Gain insights into Beagle's creative process and his enduring fascination with unicorns and their mythical power. This interview offers a unique perspective on the enduring appeal of these magical creatures and their relevance in the 21st century. Filled with breathtaking illustrations and insightful prose, *The Unicorn Handbook* is more than just a book; it's an invitation to embrace the magic within and create a life filled with wonder and enchantment. Whether you are a lifelong unicorn devotee or simply seeking a touch of whimsy in your everyday routine, this book is a must-have addition to your personal library. Published by Harper and presented in a stunning hardcover format, it's a gift that will be treasured for years to come. It's a perfect addition to your collection of enchanted and fantastical books! Explore the world of magic studies, folklore & mythology. It even touches on biological sciences and ecology.