Leonard is a lion who has a duck named Marianne, as his best friend. One day the lion bullies come around, and tell Leonard they understand he is different, he likes writing poetry and being gentle, but not chomping a duck is going too far.
Leonard and Marianne find a way to show the lion bullies that there is more than one way to be a lion. In the end, the words Marianne and Leonard put together, show the bullies that they should worry about being themselves and let Leonard be who he is.
The story reinforces the importance of accepting people for who they are and to stop using stereotypes of the way they should act. It is an important lesson that is conveyed beautifully on the pages.
Ed Vere’s new book is part of trend in children’s literature – books meant to empower boys to think independently, engage with their emotions, and not conform to traditional gender roles.
In a recent interview about the topic, Vere said: “Too often strength and sensitivity are presented as mutually exclusive. We need to teach compassion, respect and empathy at an early, foundational age. If we can teach this to boys at around five, and demonstrate that being gentle, sensitive or emotionally engaged isn’t a weakness, but part of being a fully rounded grown up man, then we’re getting the message through to them before toxic attitudes have a chance to solidify.”
Ed’s book, HOW TO BE A LION, is being praised for successfully conveying this important message.
Listen as I read the book in the video below:
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