The First Unicorn Rider

'Will thrill and delight Skandar fans,' Katherine Rundell, author of Impossible Creatures

An unmissable new magical adventure set in the incredible World of Skandar, the perfect gift for fans and for newcomers to the series alike. From international bestselling author A.F. Steadman, with stunning illustrations throughout. Perfect for fans of Harry Potter, Impossible Creatures, Eragon and Greenwild.

A BOY WITH A DESTINY. A MYSTERIOUS ISLAND. A WORLD OF MAGICAL CREATURES.

George Penhaligon has only ever wanted adventure.

But when he finds himself shipwrecked and alone on a mysterious island, he makes an incredible discovery. Unicorns are real - and they're bloodthirsty.

Slowly, George gains one unicorn's trust and together they explore the island's magical secrets. But there is a dark presence lurking in his new home, more deadly than any unicorn.

Can George fulfil his destiny and free the island from a terrible fate?

Discover the incredible World of Skandar with this thrilling origin adventure with black and white illustrations throughout by Manuel Šumberac. 

Praise for the SKANDAR series:

'The most popular children's fantasy hero since Harry Potter' - Telegraph

'Steadman has a vast imagination, her world-building is a joy, the battle scenes are thrilling and her characters charm.' - The Times Children's Book of the Week

'Deft, dazzling and breathlessly exciting - it's a joy to enter Skandar's World.' - Jonathan Stroud, author of Lockwood and Co. series

*Skandar and the Chaos Trials was the Number 1 bestseller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan chart, 27th April 2024

*Skandar and the Spirit War was the Children's Number 1 besteller in the UK Nielsen Bookscan Chart 30th August 2025