Title: Listening for Lions
Author: Gloria Whelan
First published July 26, 2005
208 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780060581763 (ISBN10: 006058176X)
Rating: 4.05
Overview
“Listen closely, for the roar of a lion is not always what it seems. Rachel Sheridan, born and raised in Africa, finds herself in the clutches of deceitful neighbors after losing her parents to the influenza outbreak.
Her journey takes her to England where Rachel is forced to lead a life of deception, all the while waiting for her chance to break free. Like the lion, she must gather her strength and be patient, waiting for the perfect moment to take control of her own destiny and find her way back to her rightful home.”
About the Author
Many young readers love Gloria Whelan’s novels, which have gained her a reputation as a best-selling author. Her impressive list of works includes Homeless Bird, which won the National Book Award, as well as Fruitlands: Louisa May Alcott Made Perfect, Angel on the Square, The Impossible Journey, Once on This Island (winner of the Great Lakes Book Award), Farewell to the Island, and Return to the Island.
Gloria and her husband, Joseph, live in the beautiful woods of northern Michigan.
Editoral Review
Listening for Lions by Gloria Whelan is a captivating novel that transports readers to early 20th century British East Africa. The book was first published on July 26, 2005, and has since been cherished by readers of all ages.
Gloria Whelan is an award-winning author who has written over 30 books for children and young adults.
Listening for Lions is a historical fiction novel that explores themes of loss, grief, and resilience. The book follows the story of 13-year-old Rachel Sheridan, who lives a privileged life on a farm in British East Africa with her parents.
However, tragedy strikes when Rachel’s parents die from the Spanish influenza pandemic, leaving her alone in a foreign land. Rachel is forced to leave her home and live with her strict and unloving aunt in England.
Rachel’s aunt has plans to marry her off to a wealthy suitor for her own gain, but Rachel has other ideas. She dreams of returning to Africa and reclaiming her family’s farm.
Rachel must use her wit and strength to navigate the harsh realities of life in England and find a way back to Africa.
Whelan’s writing style is both beautiful and poignant. She paints a vivid picture of the African landscape and creates complex and relatable characters.
Rachel is a strong and determined protagonist who readers will root for throughout the novel. The book also touches on important historical events such as the Spanish influenza pandemic and British colonialism in Africa.
One of the strengths of the book is the way Whelan handles difficult subject matter. She does not shy away from exploring themes of death and grief, but she also balances it out with moments of hope and resilience.
The pacing of the book is also well-done, with the story unfolding at just the right pace to keep readers engaged.
However, one weakness of the book is that some of the secondary characters feel underdeveloped. While Rachel is a fully fleshed-out character, some of the supporting characters feel like they could have been explored more.
Overall, Listening for Lions is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that will stay with readers long after they finish it. It would be an excellent choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction or coming-of-age stories.
I would highly recommend this book to readers of all ages.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
