Stephens, Helen. 2013. HOW TO HIDE A LION. NY: Henry
Holt. ISBN 9780805098341 [Suggested Grade Levels K – 3]
REVIEW
The
opening line of this nostalgic picture book sets the stage for trouble: “One
hot day, a lion strolled into town to buy a hat.” Predictably, an angry mob chases the lion. He
runs away and hides, less predictably, in a child’s play house--which is
decidedly too small. A small girl called Iris befriends the lion and hides him.
When her parents discover him, he runs away again. Things look bleak, but a
foiled bank robbery endears the lion to the entire town which is eager to give
the lion anything he wants. His wish takes the story full circle.
The
story’s appeal lies in the bond between Iris and her lion. Stephens’ playful water
color illustrations bring the details of the unlikely friendship to life. They
visit the park, draw pictures, read bedtime stories, and share a bed for
sleeping as well as jumping. Children
will also appreciate the fact that Iris recognizes, long before the adult
characters, that the lion is kind.
CONNECTIONS
Explore
the character traits often associated with lions. Help children to recognize
those themes in the events of this story and to talk about their own
experiences with bravery, strength and courage.
RELATED BOOKS
Pinkney,
Jerry. THE LION & THE MOUSE. 9789862165300
Knudsen,
Michelle. LIBRARY LION. 9780763622626
Munsch,
Robert. ROAR! 9780545980203
By Suzy Parchman
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