I WISH THERE WERE UNICORNS Karleen Bradford. Toronto, Gage Publishing, c1983. (Jeanpac series). 159pp, paper, $2.95. ISBN 0-7715-7005-8. Grades 5 and up. Reviewed by Leslie A. McGrath. Volume 11 Number 5. 1983 September. A light, easy-reading novel by the author of The Other Elizabeth. The story concerns Rachel Larrimer, aged thirteen, who blames her mother for her parents' recent divorce. Having to move to a rambling old house in the country, away from her father, friends, and dancing school is bad enough, but when an extroverted "slum kid," Jess, arrives to spend the summer with them, Rachel's anger and resentment make her completely miserable. She rebuffs Jess's attempts to make friends and wet-blankets her family's enthusiasm about the old house. After a visit from her father, however, and a gripping near-tragedy, Rachel attains a better perspective of the things that really matter in her life. Jess's courage and thoughtfulness win her friendship, and his determination to overcome all obstacles and obtain an education spurs Rachel on to forget her self-pity and prepare for a brave start in her new home. Written from Rachel's point of view, the story is intended primarily for girls. A sturdy, attractive paperback in the Jeanpac series, / Wish There Were Unicorns is illustrated with plain black-and-white drawings well suited to the text. The vocabulary is simple, the print clear and easy to read. A useful addition to a young adult collection, and possibly a good lure for the reluctant reader. Recommended. Leslie A. McGrath, Toronto, ON.