The Penguin Podcast is back! Listen Now
How to be a Lion

How to be a Lion

Summary

Winner of the Oscar's Book Prize 2019

"This witty, resonant picture book is a manual for anyone's life, young or old." Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week

You don't have to ROAR to be heard...


Meet Leonard - a lion like no other.

Leonard's best friend is Marianne, a duck. But lions chomp ducks, don't they?

What will the pair do when their way of life is threatened?

From the New York Times-bestselling author of Max the Brave comes a powerful story celebrating daydreamers, individuality and the quiet courage to be yourself.

"Positive role models showing boys how to be a whole person are few and far between these days. This marvelous book triumphs in that essential job." Kirkus

"Children will feel empowered after reading such a deliberate story of unyielding strength and self-awareness. Thoughtful and provocative words to live by." School Library Journal

"gently reminiscent of Winnie the Pooh" BookTrust

"Framed by a glowing palette of burnt yellows and oranges, and infused with humour and warmth, this thought provoking fable celebrates courage, individuality and the power of words." The Bookseller

"A philosophical tale so, so full of heart, celebrating the quietest and gentlest among us." Library Mice

"A gentle read with an overwhelming power. How to be a Lion by Ed Vere italicises the need to speak up for yourself and those less strong than yourself. With his signature bold artwork this is another crowd pleaser from the author and illustrator " Picture Books Blogger

Reviews

  • This witty, resonant picture book is a manual for anyone's life, young or old.
    Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week

About the author

Ed Vere

Ed Vere is an award-winning and New York Times bestselling writer and illustrator of picture books, including How To Be a Lion - winner of Oscar's Book Prize - and Max the Brave which was named one of The Sunday Times's '100 Modern Children's Classics'.
He studied fine art at Camberwell College of Art and has been writing and illustrating children's books since 1999. Ed has worked with CLPE to co-create the Power of Pictures scheme which encourages visual literacy in primary school education and has received major funding from the Arts Council. He is also a painter, working from his studio in east London.
Learn More

Sign up to the Puffin newsletter

Stories, ideas and giveaways to help you spark young imaginations