When Lion Could Fly: And Other Tales from Africa
#2 of 15 in African Animal Tales Series
What’s inside...
When Lion Could Fly is a collection of over 30 traditional African stories from a dozen sub-Saharan tribes, highlighting the deep connection between humans and animals. Compiled by Nick Greaves, who lives in Zimbabwe and has studied these tales, the book includes stories about various animals such as Lion, Jackal, and even Dung Beetle. Each story is accompanied by Rod Clement's illustrations and factual information about the animal's habits and habitat. Aimed at children from six to early teenage years, the book seeks to entertain, inform, and raise awareness about the importance of preserving Africa's diverse cultures and landscapes amidst ecological threats.
Discussion points
What do you think made the lion want to fly in the story?
How did the other animals react to lion's wish? Why do you think they reacted that way?
If you could have a magical ability like the lion, what would it be and why?
How do you think the story would change if it was set in our hometown instead of Africa?
What lessons can we learn from the lion's adventure and the other tales in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves within the story, asking how they would feel or react in similar situations.
Link the themes of the book to your child's experiences, such as discussing times when they wanted something very much like the lion.
Use expressive reading to bring the characters and settings alive, which can help your child connect more deeply with the story.
After reading, engage in creative activities like drawing scenes from the book or writing a short story inspired by it, to further explore its themes.
Ask your child to guess what might happen next before turning the page, building anticipation and involvement in the storytelling.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Through tales where animals experience various challenges and adventures, children learn to put themselves in others' shoes.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy by considering other people's feelings and perspectives in school or playground interactions.
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: Several stories highlight how animals must work together to overcome obstacles, teaching the value of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Kids learn the significance of cooperating in group tasks, whether in class projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book often face tough situations but find creative ways to solve problems, demonstrating resilience.
Real-World Application: Children understand that challenges can be managed and overcome with perseverance in their academic and personal lives.
Example Lesson: Courage to explore the unknown
Explanation: As characters venture into new territories or try unfamiliar things, they exhibit bravery.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be open to new experiences and learning opportunities, such as joining a new club or trying a different sport.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: Many stories in the book show the consequences, both good and bad, of the characters' choices, emphasizing accountability.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that their actions have impacts and urges them to make thoughtful decisions.