Do lions hate haircuts? by Bethany Walker and Stephanie Laberis

Leonard the Lion is king of the beasts, master of the Savannah, leader of his pride and a great big baby when it's time for a haircut!

Nobody, NOBODY, can cut Leonard's hair to his liking. That is, until he meets a little mouse called Marvin. Despite his scepticism that a mouse could help a lion, Leonard gives him a try and is so impressed by the wild and whacky styles Marvin creates with his teeny-tiny comb and scissors that soon they are best buddies.

However Leonard wants Marvin to cut his hair and HIS HAIR ONLY. So when Leonard sees Marvin giving Zebra a new hairdo, Leonard is jealous and refuses to have his hair cut at all. But the folly of that plays out when he hears Marvin in trouble and he rushes to his rescue...

This is a fast-paced story that has several twists and turns, including the ending, and which will engage young readers, especially those who are not keen about getting their hair cut. Perhaps they will suffer the same fate as Leonard! Hilarious illustrations that are bright and bold really enhance the text and the creatures' faces are so expressive that discussing how each is feeling and why is a must.

Apart from a subtle message about finding friendship in unexpected places, this is a story that will be enjoyed just for the fun of it.

Themes: Lions, Haircuts, Jealousy, Friendship, Humour.

Barbara Braxton