BOY. RIDER. HERO.
This summer, you can discover the magical world of Skandar – the No.1 bestselling series by A.F. Steadman, perfect for fans of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson!
Skandar Smith never thought he’d be a hero. But when he is flown to an island full of bloodthirsty unicorns, everything changes. Along with his fellow riders, Skandar must train to battle with elemental magic – but can they defeat the shadowy enemy that threatens their new home?
Get ready for epic sky battles, deadly secrets and friendships that will last forever!
GO ALL IN and celebrate the National Year of Reading 2026 with these epic new editions of the international bestselling Skandar series, featuring brand new illustrated covers.
As part of the Summer of Skandar and the National Year of Reading, we’re inviting you to Be a Reading Hero by starting the adventure with Book 1, Skandar and the Unicorn Thief, and discovering more about the ‘quartet’ of heroes at the heart of the series.
Welcome to the Island
Hidden from the ordinary world, the Island is home to wild bloodthirsty unicorns and the young riders chosen to bond with them. Every rider trains to become a wielder of elemental magic, fly with their unicorn and take on incredible challenges. From spectacular races to dangerous quests, the Island is a place where bravery, teamwork and friendship matter just as much as magic.
Meet the Heroes
Skandar Smith
Boy. Rider. Hero.
Kind, loyal and determined, Skandar grew up on the Mainland in Margate, Kent. He’s dreamed of becoming a unicorn rider for as long as he can remember – but he never imagined his dream would come true. Although he doesn’t always believe in himself, Skandar is always ready to stand up for his friends, and he proves that ordinary people can become extraordinary heroes.
Skandar is bonded with the unicorn Scoundrel’s Luck.
Roberta ‘Bobby’ Bruna
Bobby (don’t call her Roberta!) also grew up on the Mainland and meets Skandar when they both first arrive on the Island. She’s quick-thinking, competitive and always ready for the next adventure. Bobby is famous for her special ’emergency’ sandwiches – cheese, marmite and… raspberry jam!
Bobby is bonded with the unicorn Falcon’s Wrath.
Mitchell Henderson
Mitchell grew up on the Island and begins his training at the same time as Skandar, Bobby and Flo. Clever, curious and brilliantly resourceful, he’s always asking questions, researching and plotting out the quartet’s plans on a blackboard…
Mitchell is bonded with the unicorn Red Night’s Delight. While Mitchell likes to keep things tidy and under control, his fiery unicorn couldn’t be more different – she’s often covered in mud and causing chaos with the occasional flame-filled fart!
Florence ‘Flo’ Shekoni
Flo was brought up on the Island and bonds with an extremely rare type of unicorn called a Silver. Silver unicorns are exceptionally powerful, and Flo is very scared of her unicorn at first – but she gradually learns that being brave doesn’t mean never feeling afraid. Smart, quiet and calm, Flo often acts as the peacekeeper for her quartet.
Flo is bonded with the unicorn Silver Blade.
Be a Reading Hero!
Together, Skandar, Bobby, Flo and Mitchell make an unforgettable quartet of heroes. Everyone can Be a Reading Hero by starting their own Skandar adventure this summer!
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