The Lion's Paw

by Jane Werner Watson, Gustaf Tenggren (Illustrator)

Compassion is the key lesson of this book that presents the classic African folktale of a ferocious lion that has a thorn stuck in its paw, and the little mouse who is the only one brave enough to remove it. Illustrations.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Animals, Classics

24 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1987

About the author

Jane Werner Watson, born Elsa Jane Werner was an American children's author. She also wrote under the names Elsa Jane Werner Watson, Elsa Jane Werner, Jane Werner, Annie North Bedford, Monica Hill, Elsa Ruth Nast, W.K. Jasner, and A.N. Bedford.

Reviews

[Jon Nakapalau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great retelling of this classic story of friendship. This is one of the first stories I can remember hearing when I was a child. Really found the lesson to be true; you never know who you might need help from in the future, so it is best to just treat everyone with kindness and respect.

[Samira · Rating 5 out of 5]

A childhood favorite.

[M Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed the illustrations and the many animals shown in this book.

[Spens (Sphynx Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just remembered that my mom used to read me this book as a kid and I loved it! Great story.

[Dee-Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

A simple stroy, which seemed a bit too long. I read this to two of my son's last night. They did not lose interest, but it did not provoke any conversation, except my son liked the crocodile (that is part of being a Territorian). There is a large array of animals in this book, some a bit unusual which was good.

[Mckinley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Introduces African animals as a lion asks others to remove a thorn from it's paw.

[Marya · Rating 1 out of 5]

It's a list of African animals. Drawings are nice, but that's about it.

[Kylie Abecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a very interesting book by any standard, but I do see the point trying to made.

[Zac Stojcevski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first read this book 50 years ago, one of the first books that I read independently which helped, along with Sesame Street, to develop my English language skills and in particular with this book, good grammar and the use of adjectives.

The illustrations have been etched in my brain and quite often I bring this book up and it still, as per childhood, touches both some dark matter and some hope for me.

The premise - the all powerful and competent lion due to a minor injury is completely debilitated. Creatures who fear him or have history with him find various excuses not to help or have their own fears or prejudices towards the lion. Lip service - yes, actions - no and a pronounced bystander effect. However, help comes from the most improbable places with some not emphasising or blurring judgement with the past.

A text definitely integral to my psyche and inner thoughts and I'm glad to have reread!

[Judi Labenske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book as a child. I thought of it recently and ordered it.

Such a simple story of courage and compassion. Keeping it in my library.

Recommend reading it if you or a loved one is discouraged. Reminds us we need community and connection!

[Glynnis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bizarre classic.