Cubby, the Lionsheep: Son, You Are a Lion, Live Like One!
What’s inside...
Cubby, the orphan lion cub, embarks on a remarkable adventure that could help him fulfill his destiny as the King of beasts, as his mother intended. However, there is a twist in his journey as Cubby, influenced by his adopted family, believes he is a sheep. Samson Debesay's narrative navigates through a tapestry of imagination, drama, and poignancy, intertwining varied characters like a determined hunter, a comically unhappy porter, and a fierce lioness dedicated to her cub. The story unfolds in a perilous bush, encapsulating themes of survival, identity, and the essence of nature's law — kill or be killed, hunt or starve. It prompts readers to puzzle over how Cubby's life took a dramatic turn one afternoon and why his best friend is now a sheep. This captivating tale promises to entertain and inspire both the young and the young at heart, urging them to contemplate their own identity and potential.
Age
4-8
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes Cubby special, even though he's different from the other lions?
How did Cubby feel when he realized he was a lionsheep, and how would you feel in his situation?
Why is it important for Cubby to accept himself as he is?
What can we learn from Cubby about facing our fears and challenges?
How do you think being a lionsheep helped Cubby in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the characters to life, which can help your child connect emotionally with Cubby and his experiences.
Ask your child to predict what might happen next in various points of the story to keep them engaged and thinking critically.
Relate the story to your child’s personal experiences by discussing times when they felt different or faced a challenge, linking it back to Cubby's journey.
Encourage your child to draw a picture of Cubby or create their own unique animal character, discussing the traits that would make their character special.
After reading, reinforce the theme by discussing the importance of self-acceptance and courage in everyday life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in self-discovery
Explanation: Cubby, a unique lionsheep, embarks on a journey to find his true identity and in doing so, learns to embrace his dual nature.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and accept their unique qualities and personal journey, bolstering self-confidence in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: The value of resilience
Explanation: Throughout his adventure, Cubby faces various challenges that test his resolve but he learns to persevere and overcome these obstacles.
Real-World Application: This story teaches children the importance of perseverance in the face of difficulties, a skill they can apply at school or when learning new tasks.
Example Lesson: The strength of kindness
Explanation: Cubby, despite being different, shows kindness to those around him, which in turn, brings him support and friendship from unlikely places.
Real-World Application: Children learn the impact of kindness towards others, fostering positive interactions and relationships within their community.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: Cubby's dual heritage as a lionsheep allows him to interact with both lions and sheep, promoting unity and understanding between the groups.
Real-World Application: This lesson highlights the importance of accepting and celebrating differences among peers, which is crucial in a diverse school environment or social setting.