I am so excited to share with you one of my top picks for 2020! If You See a Lion is written by Karl Newson and illustrated by Andrea Stegmaier. Have you seen a lion? It’s hiding somewhere in this book. But you’ll have to take a closer look… If You See a Lion radiates fun right from the half-eaten cover and it does not disappoint!
Once upon a time there was lots of things in this book, but a lion has eaten them all up including, but not limited to: a troll, a dragon, a sprite, a unicorn, an ABC sign, a clown, a hippo and a sprout! The not-to-be-trusted by ever-so-charismatic main character invites you to see if you can find the lion hidden amongst the tasty pages. Andrea’s illustrations are fabulous, and the text placement gives each punch line that little extra oomph!
My almost three-year old was joining in with the words on the first reading – it is so cleverly set-up she knew what was coming next. Or did she? There are some fabulous twists built into the rhyme to keep you on your paws! It takes a true master of picture book rhyme to tease the reader like this and it is MAGICAL to read.
Meanwhile, my youngest was attempting to eat the pages of this book (channelling Lion???) we managed to save the book though – and I’m so glad we did because this is now firmly a family favourite! Hidden within this fabulously fun book is not just a lion, but also a great message about being yourself. When the elusive lion attempts to eat a certain straight-talking rabbit, it is time for Lion to come clean about why he really eats everything.
I can see a lion has a playful, engaging rhyme and rhythm that will captivate you and stunning illustrations. We were in hysterics from start to finish. This is truly picture book creation at its absolute best and reminded me of theatrical storytelling, almost like a pantomime at times, with my little girl screaming out the words, and the big belly laughs at each twist and turn. So whatever kind of cat or kitten you are, BE YOUR OWN KIND OF CAT and get your paws on a copy of this purrrfect picture book.
Publisher: Words & Pictures, Quarto
Publication date: 18 August 2020
ISBN: 978-0711252325
I am very grateful to the publisher for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. This voluntary review contains my honest opinion.
Picture Book Perfect 