Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes

ISBN-13: 9780763637842
Candlewick Press

Recently my granddaughters visited, and when they saw that I had a copy of Library Lion, they were positively ecstatic. They were quite familiar with the book since it is one they have checked out repeatedly from their local library in Virginia. Needless-to-say, it was read several times during their visit with Grandmama.

What is the draw of this book? What is its charm? Why is it a winner of a plethora of awards?

The library is a very special place and has rules. Miss Merriweather is the librarian and she makes certain that folks obey the rules. One day a lion walks into the library. No rule against a lion in the library. The lion goes to story time.  No rule against that.

As time goes by, the lion visits earlier and earlier and becomes Miss Merriweather’s library helper. And one day she falls off her stepladder. Oh my! Now a rule must be broken.

This gentle story about the lovely library and the gentle giant of a lion is sweet and endearing. It gently teaches that rules are important. Yet it also teaches that there are circumstances where we must make a decision to break a rule.

Beautifully drawn illustrations capture the essence of the story. Together the words and pictures create a story that a child wants to hear again and again.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick Press to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. I received no compensation for this review.