FICTION

The Lion Inside

by Rachel BRIGHT
illus. by Jim Field. 32p. Scholastic. Jun. 2016. Tr $16.99. ISBN 9780545873505.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2—Field's impressive array of perspectives enhances Bright's rhyming text about a downtrodden mouse who longs to live large. Comical cartoon critters of the savanna seem sympathetic to the mouse's leonine ambitions, which lead him to request instruction from the regal roarer himself, despite the possibility of becoming a meal. Tables turn when our mouse is forced to allay the lion's fear of rodents, and the two become pals who together roar with laughter, since "We all have a mouse and a lion inside." Bright's language play ("tinyful," "tippity-toes") works well with Field's hysterical expressions and spot-on composition arrangements.
VERDICT There's much to enjoy here, but the basic tale is well-worn. A solid addition for storytime sharing.
Reviewed by Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA
Timid, soft-spoken Mouse, tired of being small and ignored, admires Lion's outgoing bravado and loud roar. Thinking that a roar of his own will solve his problems, Mouse seeks out Lion's help, only to discover that Lion is afraid of mice; an odd-couple friendship ensues. The theme of not judging by first impressions is enlivened by bold, comically detailed illustrations.
 , Jun 01, 2016

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