How to be a Lion

by Ed Vere

Ed Vere (Illustrator)

Winner of the Oscar's Book Prize 2019

"This witty, resonant picture book is a manual for anyone's life, young or old." Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week

You don't have to ROAR to be heard...

Meet Leonard - a lion like no other.

Leonard's best friend is Marianne, a duck. But lions chomp ducks, don't they?

What will the pair do when their way of life is threatened?

From the New York Times-bestselling author of Max the Brave comes a powerful story celebrating daydreamers, individuality and the quiet courage to be yourself.

"Positive role models showing boys how to be a whole person are few and far between these days. This marvelous book triumphs in that essential job." Kirkus

"Children will feel empowered after reading such a deliberate story of unyielding strength and self-awareness. Thoughtful and provocative words to live by." School Library Journal

"gently reminiscent of Winnie the Pooh" BookTrust

"Framed by a glowing palette of burnt yellows and oranges, and infused with humour and warmth, this thought provoking fable celebrates courage, individuality and the power of words." The Bookseller

"A philosophical tale so, so full of heart, celebrating the quietest and gentlest among us." Library Mice

"A gentle read with an overwhelming power. How to be a Lion by Ed Vere italicises the need to speak up for yourself and those less strong than yourself. With his signature bold artwork this is another crowd pleaser from the author and illustrator " Picture Books Blogger

• ISBN10: 0141376368
• ISBN13: 9780141376363
• Publish Date: 28 June 2018 (first published 26 June 2018)
• Publish Status: Active
• Publish Country: GB
• Publisher: Penguin Putnam Inc
• Imprint: Puffin
• Format: Paperback
• Pages: 32
• Language: English

Reviews

[kimbacaffeinate]

How to Be A Lion by Ed Vere was a fun story featuring a lion named Leonard and a duck named Marianne who become fast friends. Leonard loves writing poems and discovers Marianne does too.

The Royals and I loved their friendship. When other lions discovered Leonard was friends with a duck they became quite upset. After all, that's not how a lion is supposed to act. Princess Sophia was not at all happy with those lions and worried that Leonard would listen. I loved how involved she got and the emotions she expressed. She stood up declaring, "He can be friends with anyone Nonna!" "Isn't that right Nonna?" This led to wonderful discussions about embracing our differences, pursuing things we like and the acceptance of others and their choices. 

 How to Be A Lion address so many issues. It's ok to be you, to be different. It also teaches children to stand up for their friends.  I loved the message and how the story allows for discussion.  What would you do?  What should Leonard do? How do you think Marianne felt?  It was delivered in a simple fashion with illustrations that highlighted the text without overwhelming it. Grab a copy for your bookshelf or gift one to your child's classroom.  This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer