The Lion Who Wanted to Love

Step into a jungle where sweetness overcomes savagery in The Lion Who Wanted to Love-a gentle, rhyming tale about Leo, a lion who dares to defy expectations and spread love instead of fear. With playful verses and charming illustrations, this award-winning picture book cleverly upends the idea that lions must always roar and dominate. Instead, Leo yearns to give hugs and kindness to his jungle friends, showing readers that gentleness can be heroic. Authored by Giles Andreae and illustrated by David Wojtowycz, this gentle fable demonstrates that being different is a superpower and that empathy conquers stereotype. The narrative sparkles with warmth and humour as Leo learns that love builds bonds more powerful than fear-a message that resonates beautifully with young children and those teaching social-emotional learning. The rhythmic text supports reading readiness, while the storyline invites conversations about kindness, identity and social expectations. Perfect for nursery or early primary classrooms, this knockout board book encourages children to redefine courage on their own terms-and inspires readers to show love even when it's unconventional.

Educational Benefits:

• Models empathy and emotional courage through Leo's actions.
• Challenges stereotypes and supports discussions about individuality.
• Enhances literacy with rhyme, rhythm and expressive language.
• Encourages social-emotional development by promoting unconditional kindness.

Classroom Ideas:

• Create œkindness challenges inspired by Leo's hug-giving ways.
• Use role-play to explore reactions to unexpected acts of kindness.
• Write poems or rhymes about what kindness means to each student.
• Discuss how being different can bring positive change in a group setting.

Information:

• Ages: 3-6 years
• Format: Paperback board book
• Award: Children's Book Award winner (1998)