Library Lion
What’s inside...
An affectionate storybook tribute to that truly wonderful place: the library. Miss Merriweather, the head librarian, is very particular about rules in the library. No running allowed. And you must be quiet. But when a lion comes to the library one day, no one is sure what to do. There aren't any rules about lions in the library. And, as it turns out, this lion seems very well suited to library visiting. His big feet are quiet on the library floor. He makes a comfy backrest for the children at story hour. And he never roars in the library, at least not anymore. But when something terrible happens, the lion quickly comes to the rescue in the only way he knows how. Michelle Knudsen's disarming story, illustrated by the matchless Kevin Hawkes in an expressive timeless style, will win over even the most ardent of rule keepers.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the presence of the lion in the library change the way the characters felt about rules?
Why do you think Miss Merriweather was initially strict about the library rules, and how did her feelings change?
Can you think of a time when you made an unexpected friend like the lion? What made that friendship special?
What would you have done if you were in the library and saw the lion for the first time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the characters' actions, and relate them to their personal experiences.
Discuss the theme of friendship and rule-breaking, highlighting how sometimes flexibility is necessary for the greater good.
Ask your child about how they might feel and react in similar situations, fostering empathy and understanding.
Use expressions and voice modulations to mimic the characters and the lion to make the discussion lively and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'Library Lion', the characters learn to understand and accept the lion despite their initial fears and doubts. This happens through observing the lion's gentle behavior and seeing his helpfulness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to empathize with others who might seem different initially and appreciate diverse perspectives, fostering an inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of Rules and When to Break Them
Explanation: The story teaches that while rules are important for order, there are exceptional circumstances where breaking them can be justified. This is illustrated when the lion roars in the library to get help, breaking the rule of silence.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the significance of rules but also teach them the moral discernment about when it’s necessary to bend them for greater good.
Example Lesson: Dealing with Loss and Change
Explanation: The book addresses handling departure and change gracefully when the lion leaves the library. It shows characters managing their emotions and eventually accepting change.
Real-World Application: It can help children cope with transitions or losses in their own lives, learning to adapt and accept change positively.