Library Lion

Knudsen, Michelle. 2006. Library lion. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press.

Anyone who works in a library will get a kick out of this fun children's picture book. Those of us who are familiar with librarians and library rules know that sometimes we have to laugh at ourselves. This book about a lion who wants to visit the library but has to learn the rules just like everyone else, is both humorous and heartwarming. A lion in the library is a little bit like the proverbial bull in a china shop. Only this lion is smarter because he really can learn the rules.

While the book tends to paint librarians in a stereotypical way and seems to be outdated (in these days of on-line catalogs, most kids have never seen an old fashioned card catalog), the story will capture their attention. The lion teaches the children about all the great things a library provides -- books, story times, and most of all friends. The story also teaches kids that there are exceptions to all rules, especially when it comes to safety.

The colorful illustrations, rendered in acrylic and pencil, were created by award winning illustrator Kevin Hawkes. He really succeeded in capturing the mood and emotions of the characters.

This book is the perfect size for a story time. It could be paired with I.Q. Goes to the Library by Mary Ann Fraser for a theme of animals in the library.

Library Lion is a New York Times bestseller and is recommended for children ages 4-8.