Lion Lessons

"Blending sparse text with hilarious images, Agee mines a lot of humor. . . . A jubilant romp fit for a lion."--Kirkus

Bypassing storefronts that advertise karate, tutoring, and violin lessons, this book's young narrator walks into a shop offering "Lion Lessons" and chooses a tawny, maned costume. His instructor, an actual lion, holds a degree from the Harvard School of Claw and teaches the "seven steps to becoming a lion." At first, the professor finds his small student disappointing, because the boy underperforms at basic skills like Looking Fierce, Roaring, and Prowling Around. "I can see your tail," the lion chides, when the boy hides in a bush. The boy hides behind a tree. " 'Your tail, ' said the lion. 'I can still see it.' " Only when an emergency arises--a dog chases a kitten--does the apprentice pounce and roar convincingly. "Bravo!" says the lion. Agee's (It's Only Stanley) sentences are short and punchy, and he carves out gouache shapes in thick, deliberate ink outlines. He sets up a ridiculous situation with a straight face, approaching it with understated humor and leonine confidence. Ages 4-8. Agent: Holly McGhee, Pippin Properties. (July)

Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

PreS-Gr 2--"It's not easy getting your Lion Diploma," says the human protagonist of Agee's latest picture book. The nameless lead must master seven lessons to get his degree and is taught by an expert in the field--a lion. Each step highlights the essential characteristics of a ferocious feline, such as speed, agility, the loudest roar, and the ability to pounce. Most of the boy's attempts end with less than satisfactory results, except for his last lesson--looking out for friends. The lion's wry expressions and criticism complement the boy's diligent pursuits. Agee's signature-style illustrations are composed of black marker lines that outline the setting and characters, with soft-colored chalk pastel washes. Those who enjoyed Milo's Hat Trick will welcome this comical and engaging tale.

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Praise for Lion Lessons

* "Agee's sentences are short and punchy, and he carves out gouache shapes in thick, deliberate ink outlines. He sets up a ridiculous situation with a straight face, approaching it with understated humor and leonine confidence."—Publishers Weekly, starred review

* "Comical and engaging. . . . A roaring good selection for storytime or one-on-one sharing."—School Library Journal, starred review

* "This fun journey of character development neatly turns the conversation from the cowardice of bullies to what it means to be lionhearted, all in a delightful, subduedly comic package. 'Bravo!' said the lion."—Booklist, starred review

* "An outstanding read-aloud and a rewarding story."—Horn Book, starred review

"Blending sparse text with hilarious images, Agee mines a lot of humor. . . . A jubilant romp fit for a lion."—Kirkus