How to Hide a Lion

PreS-Gr 2—Purchasing a hat on a hot day is a perfectly ordinary errand-unless you're a lion. When this particular shopper is chased off the premises by understandably terrified townspeople, he finds refuge in the playhouse of a little girl. Being the brave and practical sort, Iris determines that due to her fugitive's large size, he must be hidden indoors. She combs his mane, tends to a wounded paw, and comforts and conceals him because, as everyone knows, "moms and dads can be funny about having a lion in the house." Readers get the impression that this arrangement could go on indefinitely if it weren't for the fact that lions are difficult to move when sleeping-which they do "a lot." The lion is roused by the shrieks of Iris's surprised mother and is forced to find a new hiding spot masquerading between two stone lions in front of the town hall. His watchful nature, and ability to pin down burglars, ultimately makes him a town hero. He proudly marches in a parade held in his honor and claims his reward: the hat he was searching for in the first place. Bright, cheerful sketches accompany this engaging plot filled with pluck, tenderness, and just a dash of English whimsy. Without the slightest bit of treacle and a great deal of humor, Stephens weaves a story about bravery and kindness that adults and children will reach for again and again.—Jenna Boles, Greene County Public Library, Beavercreek, OH