FICTION

A Lion Is a Lion

by Polly DUNBAR
illus. by Polly Dunbar.40p. Candlewick. Apr. 2018. Tr $15.99. ISBN 9780763697310.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 1—In this fun and roaring good picture book, Dunbar shares a story about a lion who gives the appearance of a dapper, polite fellow but reveals his true nature when he tries to turn his human hosts into dessert. The narrative proceeds with some rhyme but little rhythm as readers are asked to determine what behavior they would accept from the lion. (Is a lion still a lion if he wears a hat, carries an umbrella, and makes "civilized introductions"?) He appears to be winning over his hosts, but his behavior becomes wilder. Dunbar packs a message of empowerment disguised as whimsy. With her trademark loose lines and ink wash with pops of color, this lion is shooed like a house cat and the nameless sister and brother protagonists shout, "No, you may NOT come in—we DO mind if you do!"
VERDICT This lively cautionary tale makes a engaging storytime selection. Recommended for larger collections.
Reviewed by Lisa Lehmuller, Paul Cuffee Maritime Charter School, Providence , Mar 01, 2018

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