Virtual Unicorn Experience

Phoebe and Her Unicorn #12

by Dana Simpson

Marigold Heavenly Nostrils is one magical unicorn—and she knows it! But sometimes it’s harder for humans like Phoebe to understand that they can be magical, too. In the latest Phoebe and Her Unicorn adventure, the pair visits the science museum, tests out an extra-special virtual unicorn reality, and performs in the school talent show. With the help of her best friend and an emergency sparkle transfusion, Phoebe learns about confidence, empathy, and resilience—and even how to live without her cellphone. It’s all part of the very real excitement of Virtual Unicorn Experience.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Humor, Comics, Unicorns, Childrens

176 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2020

About the author

Dana Claire Simpson grew up in Gig Harbor, Washington, drawing the entire time. She eventually graduated from The Evergreen State College, despite having spent all her time drawing, and not always for credit.

Attempts at doing real work along the way are hardly worth mentioning; the relevant fact is that, from 1998 to 2008, she drew the internet comic strip Ozy and Millie. After winning the Amazon-sponsored Comic Strip Superstar Contest in 2009, Universal Uclick signed her to a development deal for Heavenly Nostrils.

She currently lives in the Seattle area with her tech genius husband and her fairly stupid cat.

Reviews

[Schizanthus Nerd · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s no secret how much I love this series. There are unicorns, magic and nerds. What’s not to love?! Although it’s technically a series for kids, this adult finds it delightful. The friendship between this unicorn and her nerd is really sweet, full of mutual admiration, laughter and a healthy dose of sarcasm.

In this collection we learn that Marigold floats when she’s complimented. As she fishes for compliments a lot I would have thought we’d already know about the floating but this is new information for both Phoebe and me.



Phoebe learns the Unicorn Investigative Agency has her under surveillance. The solution? A sparkle transfusion! Of course, this doesn’t exactly go to plan.



Phoebe finds out what life without a phone is like. Marigold attends an audition and it’s Phoebe’s job to distract her until she finds out the result. Phoebe enjoys one of life’s pleasures - falling asleep to the sound of rain.



We learn that Marigold has a magical pocket dimension, which could be the answer to all of your storage needs. Phoebe performs in a talent show and Marigold has jury duty. We discover that Marigold went through a goth phase.



My favourite chuckle was when Marigold showed us how good she looks in pink.



I enjoyed seeing a couple of different sides to Dakota. I was disappointed by the comics that included Max though. His character has so much potential but he wasn’t given a lot to do in this collection.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for the opportunity to read this graphic novel.

Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is being posted on the Day of Ecstatic Rainbow Butterflies Drifting on a Softly Singing Breeze or what unicorns call Saturday. Phoebe and Marigold Heavenly Nostrils begin their adventures near the end of the year. We discover the optimal circumstances for hoof painting. There is unicorn surveillance afoot until Phoebe get a sparkle transfusion and a talented tail appears. Throughout the book notable dates like Christmas, New Years, St. Patrick's Day and Daylight Savings are part of the story boards. Some of my favorite bits include the Virtual Unicorn Experience -- so sparkly, Phoebe's magic act for the school talent show, and the trial at Twinkle Hooves Courthouse. Did you know that the list of things that are unicorns includes kittens, sourdough bread, palm trees, radishes, the third Tuesday of alternating months, a shiny button that Tulip Lovelymane found somewhere, and hats? I hope you, too, have a sparkly experience with Phoebe and Her Unicorn!

[Kyra Leseberg (Roots & Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What more can I say about this series? I love it.

Phoebe and Marigold's adventures (school talent shows, sparkle transfusions, virtual unicorn reality, and even surviving without a smartphone) continue in this collection and remain focused on friendship, confidence, and being yourself!

Thanks to Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Virtual Unicorn Experience is scheduled for publication on September 1, 2020.

For more reviews, visit www.rootsandreads.wordpress.com

[Jacob Proffitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm going through these too fast to keep up with reviewing them. And my memory for individual details isn't holding up. So I may just copy this as the review for those I've read, at least for as long as the quality keeps up. My review of the first should hold up for the rest.

Okay, one note. Phoebe's dad is totally me. He even looks like me since I've grown my hair out. It's uncanny.

[Melissa McShane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not sure which story I liked best here, but it might be Phoebe's entry in the talent show. Also, more Dakota--always a good thing. And now I have to wait for another collection, however long that takes.

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

This is the second book in the Phoebe and her unicorn series and I lived it. I have thoroughly enjoyed both books I have read in this series so far and look forward to reading the rest.

This graphic novel comic book style book had me giggling away, with child and adult humour within it.

I love how each book so far has been so different to the last. The names of the unicorns are fantastic and I thought the step by step drawing pages at the back of how to draw phoebe and Marigold were a great addition to this book.

[Jolien ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher for giving me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this. However I do have to say that somewhere halfway it gets a bit boring. So hence the rating. I did really enjoy the humor in this one and the sass of the unicorn. The unicorn was in my opinion a strong character for the book and I think it really made the book spark.

I would recommend this book however as I said before at the middle point it gets quite boring so keep that in mind.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable, super-comforting, and I'm SO SAD that I've now run out of new books in this series to read! But I'll be re-reading a LOT until the next volume comes out.

[Panda Incognito · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have followed this series for years, and am thrilled that I got to read this new book months in advance through NetGalley. It is absolutely hilarious, and it amazes me that Dana Simpson has been able to come up with new and inventive ideas for Phoebe and Marigold Heavenly Nostrils for a dozen books.

Although this title shares some similar jokes to previous ones, it follows unique storylines, uses familiar punchlines in new ways, and continues to develop the characters and their relationships. This book is incredibly creative, and of all of the comics and short narratives, my favorite is the story where Marigold gets called up for unicorn jury duty. Everything about this is hilarious. I love the illustrations, and the judge in his wig, and the dialogue, and all of the elements that I won't mention because of spoilers. It's FANTASTIC.

This book made me laugh out loud multiple times. It is a great choice for children, teens, and adults, and as always, it seems worthwhile to point out that my teenage brother has read all of these books as they have released. Even though the pink and sparkly cover makes this look like this is exclusively aimed at elementary-aged girls, this series is perfect for anyone who enjoys creative humor, witty dialogue, and fantasy entwined with everyday life.

I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Etienne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like always, very girly, but funny cartoon comic. Light but entertaining, not much for me, but definitely humor potential. Well done!

[Lover of books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love reading these with my daughter! She doesn't get why I laugh at certain things but she will when she is older.

[Lexie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think the best way to review a Phoebe book is to basically give you out of context lines that are the most fun: "That seems impractical and ridiculous." "I tried very hard to select a very concerned looking bush to hide in." "It is like a dagger to my soul, to have to confess my extreme wonderfulness!" "It's interesting finding out your butt is more talented than your hands." "No you cannot! I am expertly concealed." "Festive holiday sarcasm!" (that may be my favorite) Bottom line is, if you enjoy the other Phoebe books, you'll really enjoy this. While technically the age range is meant for middle grade, my almost 10 year old niece has been reading these books now for almost 4 years and they remain the ONLY incentive that will get her to clean her room (so thank goodness they come out twice a year otherwise it would be plushie avalanche that truly ends the world). Without hammering over the head or treating the "teaching" moments as big deals, these books can teach a child empathy, patience, resourcefulness and mutual understanding that unicorns are magnificent beings we should all cherish and compliment (but not too often or they'll float away).

[La Coccinelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series has lost the magic for me. This twelfth volume kind of felt like it was phoning it in. Sure, we have the established characters, but how many times can we see Dakota be nasty, Max be wallpaper (he had so much potential when he was first introduced!), and Marigold be vain? It's getting old.

Marigold also slipped up and used a contraction in this book (shocking!) and there was an uncomfortable passage with a glitching computer and Phoebe talking about the world needing a reset. The timing is awfully suspicous. (Look up "The Great Reset". Finding what looks an awful lot like propaganda in a children's book left a bad taste in my mouth.)

If you're a die-hard Phoebe and Marigold fan, you might enjoy this. I've loved this duo from the beginning... but I think maybe 12 books is enough.

Thank you to NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing for providing a digital ARC.

[Melanie McFarlane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed reading this with my 8-year old. The unicorns are funny as usual with their naive perspectives. Loved the timely use of virtual reality with lessons on confidence and empathy....and as always....resilience! I love these chap books turned graphic novels. Great for a reluctant reader.

[Jimin'sRamenNoodles (Jinlo) · Rating 1 out of 5]

I'm disgusted by you, Dana Simpson.

How dare you compare this worthless piece of filth to 'Calvin And Hobbes', the name that shouldn't even be used from your mouth. I would've gave you and your ridiculous book a chance, but the forward I saw in one of your books made me want to rip it into a thousand pieces and use it to wipe my dogs butt. I hate this book with a BURNING PASSION.

Bill Watterson will be better then you and your stupid, useless vector art pictures will ever be.
Calvin and Hobbes is a breathtakingly unique concept, a book that is treasured for the love, humor, worry, passion and sadness spilled into the pages. His book is genius, and if I could read one thing for the rest of my life, it would be that. Your art is messy and you REUSE THE SAME PANEL OVER AND OVER like we're all too stupid to notice.

Not only do you compare, but you say you're book is BETTER, and Calvin and Hobbes is boring.

And yet here you are, sitting and your trashy high and mighty throne, using and pushing down other authors to lift yourself up.
I wish to never set sight on another one of these books again.

Grow up, Dana Simpson.
And while you're at it, keep the name Bill Watterson out of your immature mouth.

(As for this review, you are JUST the type to be sneaking on Goodreads and acting like you aren't reading your own reviews- Yet here you are. Hopefully this well help you GET A CLUE.)

[Kailey (Luminous Libro) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phoebe is best friends with a unicorn named Marigold, and this has some pros and cons. Unicorns have magic and can help you win a game of handball at recess or perform in a talent show, but their magic doesn't always work as planned. Phoebe and Marigold have to navigate both the human and unicorn cultures to keep their friendship strong, and they are always learning something new and interesting about each other.

I loved the fun camaraderie between Phoebe and Marigold! They are such cute friends, and I loved how they banter back and forth. Their dialogue is really funny and silly!

This comic is organized in panels like a web comic with little snippets of jokes and one-liners. I like the format and how the humor pulls the stories together.

I would love to read more from this comic. It's light-hearted and delightful!


Disclaimer: I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Volume 12 and this series is staying strong. I laughed out loud so many times during this volume, it was pure delight.
I love that Phoebe also has adopted the Unicorn! exclamation when proud. I must admit to also doing it now when I'm being extra fabulous or sparkly.
And talking of sparkly, be warned, this book is extremely sparkly. Love it!

Thanks to Netgalley for letting me read and review this early. This book comes out September 1st 2020

[britt_brooke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another cute installment! At this point, Phoebe and Marigold feel like my little quirky friends. I’m slightly behind on sending these to my 10-year-old niece in Kentucky, so I’ll be dropping this and book 11 in the mail ASAP! Middle grade books make me happy. And I love this shared connection with my sweet Anna.

[Arminzerella · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoy Phoebe and Her Unicorn, but sometimes I wish the story arcs were a bit longer. Resolving everything in a couple of pages can be unsettling, just as you're getting comfortable - that's over, now THIS happens. It's hard to stay invested.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know why I took so much pleasure in this one — I love the series in general, but some books are stronger than others. This one hit just the right spot. Maybe it was the ketchup on broccoli quip. Maybe it was when Marigold Heavenly Nostrils takes off a layer. Not sure. But I really just enjoyed this.

[Tracie Margaret · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Faloni © · Rating 5 out of 5]

i really appreciate you @ ♥🙏 .

[eleanor :) · Rating 4 out of 5]

these books make me so happy :)

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this up while visiting my parents, it was on my mom's side table with a note from my 8 year old niece to "Read Phoebe" (she LOVES this series). Naturally, I'm not going to disagree with an 8 year old, so I did. It was so cute, the art is really adorable and the little stories are very funny. I wish I'd had a Phoebe and her Unicorn when I was an 8 year old.

[Mary Catelli · Rating 4 out of 5]

A collection of strips, assuming only familiarity with the character's existence. Phoebe and Dakota's odd friendship over a show. Marigold's being confused over what a field trip is. Phoebe learns that unicorns put her on trial for not being a unicorn, and shows up to put in a plea, "Yeah, so?"

[Maureen · Rating 4 out of 5]

From my 11-year-old: I liked the book because it was funny and it made me laugh. I also liked the part where Phoebe grows a tail and uses it to pick up stuff. Also when phoebe goes to unicorn court for being human. When Marigold puts a spell on the ball so it has a mind of its own and it flys away.

[Edie Leachman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Funny, unicorn-y and a bit nerdy! I loved it!

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Andrews McMeel Publishing through NetGalley.
The adventure continues for these best friends. Simpson again creates a fun story and shows more about her Phoebe and Marigold. Readers see a more serious side of Marigold's personality along with the usual humor. Marigold actually does not get a role she auditions for and has to cope with that. I also like the continued softening between Phoebe and Dakota as they share an interest together. This book is sure to delight middle grade readers.

[Shouty · Rating 5 out of 5]

CALLING MY HANDS “EXTRA-CLOVEN TYPING HOOVES” FROM HERE ON OUT

[Jenn Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our characters are visiting a science museum, talent show, and there is an emergency sparkle transfusion.

I love the Phoebe and her Unicorn series so much. I look forward to every book being released and they are a huge hit in my classroom. Phoebe's sarcasm is probably one of my favorite things. For example, unicorns will float away if they get too many compliments and I absolutely love that Phoebe uses this fact to her advantage.

As a teacher, I also really enjoyed the description of standardized tests: wait long enough to forget it was even taken and then you get a number you don't understand.

Everything about the book is so much fun.