The Lion and the Mouse

The Lion and the Mouse

Aesop, & Pinkney, J. (2009). The Lion & the Mouse. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. ISBN 9780316013567

Set against the African Serengeti of Tanzania and Kenya, a single small mouse escapes the claws of a hungry owl, only to find herself trapped within the paw of a huge lion. On a whim, the lion lets the mouse go and then sets about his merry way. Unfortunately, poachers have been putting up traps, and before he knows it the lion is caught and bound in nasty ropes, high above the ground. To his rescue comes the little mouse, and she nibbles the ropes until they give way and free the lion. In her mouth she leaves with one of the knots of rope, which she gives her family of tiny babies at home to play with. On the final endpapers, the lion and his family of cubs prowl with the mouse and her family safely ensconced on the lion’s back.
(Bird, 2009)


This story has a timeless and traditional message of courage and kindness. The opposing characters both exhibit bravery and heart as they experience the dangers of living in their natural world. The illustrations are so expressive, there is very little need for text. The reader is allowed to infer their own interpretations of each page as they progress through the story. The range of emotion depicted by the author is truly remarkable. The lion's expressions are both majestic and contemplative and even humble. The mouse's character gains depth with each page, culminating in the final page as she brings a knot of rope from the lion’s net home to her waiting babies. This traditional tale is beautifully depicted and the simplicity of the story flows into an important life lesson about how we treat our fellow creatures.

Book Review Excerpts:

“On every page, this beautiful book suggests even more than it tells about its real setting, and about that fabulous world where such bargains are made and such rescues may happen.”
Long, J. R. (2009). [The Lion & the Mouse]. Horn Book Magazine, 85(6), 658–659.


“The ambiguity that results from the lack of words in this version allows for a slower, subtle, and ultimately more satisfying read. Moments of humor and affection complement the drama. A classic tale from a consummate artist.”
Lukeheart, W. (2009). [The Lion & the Mouse]. School Library Journal, 55(9), 146.

Connections:

-This book would be a great feature for SEL unit about compassion, empathy, bravery, or kindness.

-The illustrations are a great example of simple storytelling. This could be used as an introduction to illustrating which the students could practice in their Makerspace.

Awards:

Caldecott Medal, 2010

This review was created as an assignment for SHSU LSSL 5360.

References:

Bird, B. (2009). Review of the Day: the Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney. School Library Journal. https://afuse8production.slj.com/2009/07/20/review-of-the-day-the-lion-and-the-mouse-by-jerry-pinkney/