There's a Lion in the Forest!

Fast-paced and funny, humorously focusing on the (correct) assessment that lions simply don't roam South America. Pleasing alliteration ('growly growls, ' 'terrifying tails') and repeating phrases make for a lively read-aloud. Accompanying illustrations are cartoonish and colorful, capturing an impressive range of emotions. Back matter introduces the range of unusual forest critters in more detail, along with a call for conservation. A merry mystery for a boisterous bedtime read.

PreS-Gr 1--Trouble is brewing and animals are getting anxious "deep in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil" as one by one the creatures begin to fear that there is a lion in the forest! Despite the fact that they all know there are no lions in South America, when they hear the roaring, see the golden fur, and glimpse the long tail, they are sure the evidence proves that they are seeing a lion. Featuring animals of the rainforest (capybaras, toucans, and coati to name a few) the lesson in the dangers of jumping to conclusions is delivered with good humor and a very appealing cast of animal characters. Back matter adds further details to all the animals, especially the endangered golden lion tamarin. Pencil and watercolor illustrations capture the details of the animals and all of the fun of the building hysteria. VERDICT Fun and informational at the same time, this has a solid message for the intended audience: Take the time to gather all the evidence before leaping to conclusions. This title would be welcome in most libraries for the diversity of animals and setting that it features.--John Scott, Baltimore Cty. P. S.

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