The Lion and the Bird
by Marianne Dubuc. Translated from the French by Renuka George. Published by Tota Books
“The Lion and the Bird” by Marianne Dubuc. Translated from the French by Renuka George. Published by Tota Books. An exceedingly charming keepsake book. On a beautiful autumn day, lion is working in his garden when he hears a sound. A little bird is lying wounded and feeling helpless. He can’t just leave it lying there. He helps the bird and watches the flock flying far away. They have gone leaving the poor bird behind.
Lion decides to take the bird into his home. He cares for the bird and a lovely friendship develops between the two of them. They start living together and the bond of friendship strengthens. Through the winter they do things together and enjoy each other’s company. When the flock of birds return in spring, alas it is time for the bird to go with them.
The lion is left behind all alone. Spring passes, summer goes by slowly and autumn is back bringing a wonderful surprise! Now what could this pleasant surprise be? The story has a profound meaning and is exceedingly beautiful. The illustrations are beyond words. Hard to express and I can’t seem to find words. The way seasons have been depicted particularly winter is just brilliant!! It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that it is almost perfect! And yes the book has minimal text in some pages while the rest of the story is wordless.
Once again a big “Thank You” to Seema (from the Reading Racoons group on Facebook) for recommending this priceless gem of a book. This book as well as “The Mountain and the Bird” which I had reviewed earlier are absolute keepsakes. I picked up this book as one of the seven books that I gifted to my son on his seventh birthday. And we enjoyed reading it together! I would say the book is apt for children aged 5+. Kids who are a little older maybe to understand some of the nuances better too.
