Title: The Lion and the Mouse
Author: Jerry Pinkney
First published September 1, 2009
40 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780316013567 (ISBN10: 0316013560)
Rating: 4.22
Overview
Jerry Pinkney’s heartwarming wordless adaptation of Aesop’s beloved fable, The Lion and the Mouse, tells the story of an unlikely friendship that blossoms between two very different animals. When a mighty lion decides to spare the life of a small, trembling mouse, he never imagines that the favor will be returned.
But when the lion finds himself trapped in a hunter’s snare, the mouse steps up to free him. Pinkney’s stunning illustrations bring the African Serengeti to life, capturing the beauty and danger of the wild.
This timeless tale of kindness and friendship is sure to become a treasured addition to any family’s library.
About the Author
Jerry Pinkney, an accomplished American illustrator and writer, left an indelible mark on the world of children’s literature. With over 100 books to his name, Pinkney’s artistic talent shone through in his diverse range of works, from picture books to nonfiction and novels.
His stunning watercolor illustrations brought a unique depth and beauty to his stories, which touched on a wide variety of themes. Pinkney’s impressive contributions to the field earned him numerous accolades, including five Caldecott Honor awards and the coveted Caldecott Medal for his work on The Lion and the Mouse.
He was also a five-time recipient of the Coretta Scott King Award and four-time honoree of the same award, in addition to being nominated for the prestigious Hans Christian Anderson Award.
Editoral Review
Jerry Pinkney’s adaptation of Aesop’s fable, The Lion and the Mouse, is a breathtakingly beautiful work of art that is sure to capture the hearts of both children and adults. This legendary illustrator has won numerous awards for his art, and he does not disappoint in this retelling.
Pinkney’s interpretation of this classic tale draws the reader in with his illustrations, which are almost photographic in their color and detail. Each page of the book is painstakingly crafted to convey the story’s emotion, with the facial expressions of the lion and mouse being so touching that readers cannot help but fall in love with them.
The Lion and the Mouse is a fable about the power of kindness and mercy, and Pinkney brings this theme to life with his masterful storytelling. At its core, the book is about two unlikely friends who help each other despite their size and status differences.
The lion is initially portrayed as the powerful figure, while the mouse is small and insignificant. However, their roles are reversed when the lion is caught in a trap, and it is the mouse’s turn to help his larger friend.
The book’s themes of humility, kindness, and friendship are timeless and relevant, resonating with both children and adults alike. The illustrations not only enhance the narrative, but they also capture the essence of the animal kingdom in a way that feels both realistic and fantastical.
While the book may not offer any significant departures from the original fable, the illustrations alone make this book an exceptional piece of work. The attention to detail, precision, and the vibrant colors of Pinkney’s designs offer an immersive reading experience that will delight readers of all ages.
In conclusion, The Lion and the Mouse is a marvelous retelling of a timeless fable. Pinkney does an incredible job of bringing the story to life with his heartfelt illustrations, and his adaptation is a must-read for anyone who loves classic children’s books that touch the heart.
Irrespective of age, readers of all ages will find it engaging, and it is a book deserving of a high rating of 9/10.
