Jacqueline K. Ogburn’s debut novel is an enthralling mixture of fantasy, mystery, and family secrets. Eleven-year-old Eric Harper’s sighting of an injured, magical creature leads him to The Unicorn in the Barn (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, $16.99). Despite the protests of her daughter, Allegra, the veterinarian and new owner of Harper’s Farmhouse invites Eric to help care for a menagerie of enchanting creatures. As Eric navigates this secret job, he reaches an understanding with the forthright Allegra, discovers the limitations of magic, and faces the realities of his grandmother’s illness. Rebecca Green’s expressive illustrations, perfectly placed throughout the text, enhance this gentle tale and its cast of well-crafted characters. Ages 10-12.