100,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock πŸ‡³πŸ‡Ώ

Overnight NZ-wide delivery on in-stock orders πŸš€

The Last Unicorn

4.16 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 120,395 ratings, 7,785 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle follows a unicorn who realises she may be the last of her kind. Embarking on a quest to discover the fate of the other unicorns, she encounters various magical and mortal characters who help and hinder her journey. This enchanting tale blends fantasy and adventure with themes of transformation and discovery.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$2799
OVERNIGHT NZ-WIDE DELIVERY

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy timeless fantasy tales with rich, lyrical prose. It weaves a magical story of adventure, self-discovery, and the enduring power of hope, making it perfect for readers who love classic, heartwarming narratives.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

"THE LAST UNICORN is the best book I have ever read. You need to read it. If you've already read it, you need to read it again." Patrick Rothfuss

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle is a timeless tale that begins in a serene and magical lilac wood, where a single Unicorn lives in peace, unaware of the changing world around her. Her idyllic existence is disrupted when she overhears a conversation suggesting that she might be the last of her kind. Determined to uncover the truth and find the other unicorns, she embarks on a perilous journey through a world that has forgotten the magic and wonder of her species. Along her path, she encounters an array of eclectic characters, including the bumbling magician Schmendrick and the fiery Molly Grue, who join her quest. Together, they face numerous challenges, confront a menacing enemy, and venture to realms where danger lurks at every turn. The stakes are unimaginably high, for if the Unicorn fails, her kind will be lost forever.

This modern fairy tale masterfully blends elements of fantasy and heartfelt emotion, creating a narrative that is both poignant and wonderous. Beagle’s lyrical prose invites readers to explore themes of love, loss, and the enduring power of hope. The story captures the essence of what it means to preserve one's identity amidst a world that seeks to impose its own definitions, and it shows us the humanity of magic and the magic of humanity.

The Last Unicorn has earned its place as a beloved classic, hailed by TIME magazine as one of the 100 greatest fantasy novels of all time. Its enchanting narrative and profound themes continue to captivate readers of all ages, making it a must-read for fans of the fantasy genre.

For the first time in decades, this celebrated novel is available in the UK, featuring an exclusive introduction by esteemed author Patrick Rothfuss. This edition not only offers a gateway to a fantastical world but also provides insightful context and commentary, enriching the reading experience for both new and returning fans.

"If men no longer know what they are looking at, there may well be unicorns in the world yet, unknown and glad of it."

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle has received widespread acclaim for its vivid imagination, lyrical prose, and philosophical depth. Reviews highlight its timeless quality, whimsical humour, and enchanting storytelling, likening Beagle to Lewis Carroll and J.R.R. Tolkien. Notable voices praise its beauty and emotional impact, with many considering it a must-read.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781399606981

Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 11 May 2023

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Gollancz

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 30.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 280g

Pages: 320

About the Author

Peter S. Beagle was born in Manhattan in 1939. He wrote his first novel, A Fine and Private Place when he was just 19 years old, and it published in 1960. The Last Unicorn is one of his most famous works, published in 1968, and adapted into a film starring Christopher Lee in 1982 for which he wrote the screenplay. His works have won critical acclaim around the world, and many awards. In 2018, he was named a Damon Knight Grand Master by the SFWA.

Also by Peter S. Beagle

View all
  • On Sale
    18% off
    The Innkeeper's Song
    This is the story of three women. The first is brought back from the dead, and follows her saviour to adventure. The second is seeking the sorcerer who trained her, who has disappeared without a trace. The third is running from assassins and hiding her own deep secrets. Three mysterious women, with their own power and stories. A missing sorcerer....
    Paperback
    $2300
    Usually:
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Way Home
    My father cleared his throat. He began to say, "They took her," but he never got past the first word and had to start again. He said finally, "The Dreamies took her. She went with the Dreamies." Sooz was an extraordinary little girl. She grew into an extraordinary woman, with a gift given to her by a unicorn, after a...
    Paperback
    $2799
    Backorder
    Ships late August
  • The Way Home
    My father cleared his throat. He began to say, "They took her," but he never got past the first word, and had to start again. He said finally, "The Dreamies took her. She went with the Dreamies." Sooz was an extraordinary little girl. She grew into an extraordinary woman, with a gift given to her by a unicorn, after a...
    Paperback
    $3799
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • A Fine and Private Place
    Jonathan Rebeck is homeless. Bankrupt. He has dropped out of society and has been living quietly in a local cemetery, under the care of a raven who is quite good at stealing sandwiches. Far from being lonely, however, Jonathan is able to converse with the ghosts around him, and finds himself following two new spirits, Michael and Laura, as they...
    Paperback
    Sold Out

More from Sci-Fi & Fantasy

View all
  • The Strength of the Few
    The highly anticipated follow-up to The Will of the Manyβ€”one of 2023's most lauded and bestselling fantasy novels. The Hierarchy still call me Vis Telimus. They still, as one, believe they know who I am. But with all that has happenedβ€”with what I fear is comingβ€”I am not sure it matters anymore. I am no longer one. I won the...
    Paperback
    $2899
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Project Hail Mary
    Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, the SUNDAY TIMES and NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of The Martian, offers a gripping new adventure in hard science fiction. With endorsement from notable figures such as Barack Obama and a slew of five-star reviews, this novel promises a thrilling and intellectually stimulating journey. Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut, finds himself on a...
    Paperback
    $2399
    Elsewhere:
    $2400
    (4)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Red Rising
    The first book in the incredible New York Times bestselling series Darrow is a Helldiver, toiling beneath the surface of Mars. As a member of the Red caste, he performs grueling labor in the belief that his sacrifice will enable future generations to one day inhabit the surface of the Red Planet. The Reds are humankind's lowest caste, living in...
    Paperback
    $2200
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Crossroads of Ravens
    THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON RETURNS... Every legend has an origin - and Geralt of Rivia's begins here. In this brand-new chapter of Andrzej Sapkowski's Witcher series, follow Geralt in his earliest days as a Witcher, as he faces monsters and humans alike. Discover the untold stories and encounters that shaped the iconic character known today. Crossroads of Ravens brings readers into...
    Paperback
    $2899
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Will of the Many
    Phenomenal! One of the best high fantasy novels I've read in yearsβ€”think Red Rising meets The Name of the Wind. I couldn't put it down. - LYNETTE NONI This new edition of book one in the Hierarchy series features never-before-seen bonus materials, including a full-colour map by the author, a note to the reader, and new cover art. AUDI. VICE....
    Paperback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Wind and Truth
    The long-awaited explosive climax to the first arc of the Number One New York Times bestselling Stormlight Archive. Wind and Truth by Brandon Sanderson sees Dalinar Kholin challenge the evil god Odium to a contest of champions with the future of Roshar on the line. The Knights Radiant have only ten days to prepare, and the sudden ascension of the...
    Paperback
    $3100
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Ministry of Time
    One of the 18 best novels of the year for the Sunday Times A book of the year for the New York Times, Guardian, Independent, Evening Standard, Spectator, Red, NPR, Vanity Fair, People, Slate, Advocate, Sydney Morning Herald, Globe and Mail, Den of Geek, Good Housekeeping, Goodreads, NetGalley and Smithsonian Magazine 'A sparkling delight' Observer 'Make room on your bookshelves...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    (2)
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Assassin’s Apprentice
    Assassin's Apprentice by Robin Hobb marks the beginning of an extraordinary adventure in the rich and immersive world of the Six Duchies. Set against the backdrop of a kingdom teetering on the brink of civil war, this gripping tale introduces readers to FitzChivalry Farseer, a royal bastard whose existence threatens the stability of the crown. When the crown prince's secret...
    Paperback
    $1900
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    Backorder
    Ships late August
  • I Who Have Never Known Men
    A haunting, heartbreaking tale of female friendship and intimacy that evokes the chilling atmospheres of The Handmaid's Tale and the desolate landscapes of The Road, I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman is a story that lingers long after the last page is turned. This gripping narrative takes us deep underground, where thirty-nine women are held in isolation...
    Paperback
    $2800
    Elsewhere:
    $3299
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Colour Illustrated Hobbit
    The Colour Illustrated Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien is a timeless classic that has enchanted readers for generations. This beloved tale follows Bilbo Baggins, a peace-loving hobbit from the quaint and picturesque Shire, who finds himself thrust into an epic journey far from the comforts of his cosy home. Charming and lively illustrations by Jemima Catlin breathe new life...
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $2999
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • Blood Over Bright Haven
    A riveting dark academia fantasy about the limits of truth and power, from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. The first woman ever admitted to a prestigious order of mages unravels a secret conspiracy that could change the practice of magic forever, in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. For twenty years, Sciona...
    Paperback
    $3400
    Elsewhere:
    $3800
    In Stock
    Ships today
  • The Great Dune Trilogy
    Frank Herbert's The Great Dune Trilogy plunges readers into an evocative and grandiose saga set on the desert planet of Arrakis. This richly detailed landscape becomes the focal point for a complex tapestry of political intrigue, military conflict, and galaxy-wide repercussions. Arrakis, also known as Dune, is the sole source of the spice melange, a valuable and highly sought-after substance...
    Paperback
    $3900
    Elsewhere:
    $4499
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.