Library Lion

Michelle Knudsen's Library Lion has been a kid favorite around here, not least because the very thought of a lion strolling through a big, busy library is audacious and exciting, but also because the illustrations by Kevin Hawkes are more than adequate to the task of bringing the story to life. The subtle humor here and there is a nice touch for kids and grown-ups alike, too. The story revolves around a lion who arrives unexpectedly one day in the library and makes himself at home. He becomes a much-loved fixture, but disappears when a misunderstanding and a not-too-friendly clerk make him feel unwelcome. The librarian character is great - drawing somewhat on the old-fashioned stereotypical image, but then again not. (You'll have to read the story to understand!) The moral of the story, that rules are important but "sometimes it's OK to break them", resonates well. And ultimately, a happy ending ensues.