The Lion Who Saw Himself in the Water: English-Arabic Edition (Teaching Stories)
Teaching Stories Series
What’s inside...
(Bilingual English-Arabic edition) When a good-natured lion, king of all the animals, sees his reflection in a pool of water for the first time, he gasps at the fierce creature staring back at him and is too frightened to drink - until, finally, he overcomes his fear. Children learn through the lion how to deal positively with the fears and inhibitions that so often arise from situations they may not yet understand. Originally told by the 13th-century Sufi poet Jalaluddin Rumi, The Lion Who Saw Himself in the Water is one of a series of teaching stories that were collected by Idries Shah and that have been used in the East for hundreds of years as educational instruments to help children understand life. Ingrid Rodriguez's beautiful illustrations bring this children's version to life with warmth, humor and a distinctive richness of detail.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-10
Length
38 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the lion was scared of his own reflection?
How do the other animals help the lion in the story?
What did the lion learn by the end of the story?
How did this story make you feel?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child what they think the story will be about just by looking at the cover and title.
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the lion’s journey. Ask them if they have ever experienced something similar.
Discuss the importance of understanding and patience, as illustrated by the other animals towards the lion.
Use expressive voices for different characters to make the reading more fun and engaging.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding self-perception
Explanation: The lion in the story initially reacts fearfully to his own reflection, mistaking it for another lion. This represents a misunderstanding of his own identity and capabilities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize their fears and uncertainties, understanding that sometimes what they fear might just be a reflection of their own perceptions. This can encourage self-confidence and self-awareness.
Example Lesson: Importance of guidance from others
Explanation: In the story, the lion is comforted and guided by a wise jackal who helps him understand that the reflection in the water is his own image. This highlights the benefits of seeking guidance and wisdom from others when in confusion or fear.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to seek help or advice from trusted adults or peers when they are uncertain or afraid, reinforcing the value of community and communication.
Example Lesson: Overcoming fears
Explanation: Once the lion understands that the image in the water is his own reflection, he overcomes his fear and gains a new understanding of himself. This transformation conveys a powerful message about conquering one's irrational fears.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand that facing their fears, rather than avoiding them, can lead to personal growth and self-confidence. It encourages bravery and resilience in everyday challenges.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking
Explanation: The lion’s initial reaction to his reflection and subsequent understanding with the help of the jackal demonstrates the process of critical thinking and re-evaluation.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to question their initial perceptions and examine the situation critically, promoting a deeper understanding and thoughtful decision-making in their daily interactions.