The Lion and the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney

The Lion and the Mouse

 BIBLIOGRAPHY

 Pinkney, Jerry. 2009. The Lion and the Mouse.  New York, NY: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. ISBN 978-0-316-01356-7

 PLOT SUMMARY

One of my most beloved stories. I still read it to my students after 20 years of being an educator. In this illustrated book, the author Jerry Pinkney recounts Aesop’s classic tale of The Lion and the Mouse. An unfortunate mouse accidentally happens upon a lion.  In a reversal of fortune, the lion decides to release the mouse without causing any harm.  When hunters later trap the lion with a large net, the mouse returns to help.  The mouse chews through the net constraining the lion and subsequently frees him from the hunters’ assault. After this encounter, the lion and the mouse gaze at each other with an understanding that friendship can be found in the most unlikely of places.

 The plot is a reminder that the manner in which we treat others is how we will be treated in return.  One should always be kind to others as you never know when you will require their kindness.

 CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Since the creation of this book, countless awards and recognitions have been given unto it. Not only was this book recognized by the Coretta Scott King award five times, but it has also been awarded five Caldecott Honor Medals. Mr. Pinkney has also been nominated for the Hans Christian Anderson Award. This classic book shows illustrations that are evident throughout the entirety of the book.  The author’s ability to capture the expressions in the faces of his animal characters allows him to make the reader depend solely on the illustrations for storyline.

Because this book is wordless, meaning no words, the reader must see the illustrations and create a story. So please don’t get confused that the book lacks any substantial narrative. This allows the young reader to get fully engaged in the illustrations and the telling of the story because initiates prior experiences to tell the story. Many might consider this book a waste of time and being damaged, the illustrations have the full ability to have someone tell the story in its entirety.  The setting is set in the jungle and the hunters’ intrusion in the animals’ space and trapping the lion is felt through the illustrations of the book.

While it is unclear what prompted the lion to release the mouse at their first confrontation, the mouse is able to return to its offspring.  When the mouse returns to assist the lion, the reader intuitively comprehends the character growth of the mouse and its need to repay the lion’s earlier favor.  Once the lion is free and he is able to gaze into the mouse’s face, there is an absolute acceptance for both that their actions contributed to their continued freedom and safety.

 The culture reference of this book is that love and kindness are never wasted. This book also accommodates the youngest of the reader as they will be able to understand the lesson of the story. This book shows mercy and generosity so that the reader can understand that when kindness is shown, it will be well rewarded in return.  Everyone can comprehend that the “Golden Rule” is the moral of the story.

 REVIEW EXCERPTS

 Caldecott Medal Winner 2010

 New York Times Best Illustrated Book 2009

 ALA Notable Children Book 2010

 Horn Books Awards Honor Book 2010

 A School Library Top 100 Picture Books #37

 Parent’s Choice Gold Award Winner 2009

Starred Review in Kirkus Review: “A nearly wordless exploration of Aesop’s fable of symbiotic mercy that is nothing short of masterful.”

Starred Review in Publishers Weekly:  “Pinkney has no need for words; his art speaks eloquently for itself.”

 Starred Review in School Library Journal: "The ambiguity that results from the lack of words in this version allows for a slower, subtle, and ultimately more satisfying read. Moments of humor and affection complement the drama.”

 Booklist: “Pinkney’s soft, multihued strokes make everything in the jungle seem alive….”

 CONNECTIONS

 *A book that demonstrates the importance of family and friendships, even in the most unlikely of places.

 *Other books written and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney:

 Puss in Boots. ISBN 978-0-8037-1642-1

 Aesop’s Fables.  ISBN 978-1-58717-000-3

 The Little Red Hen.  ISBN 978-0-8037-2935-3