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A Leopard Never Changes its Spots: Will Leopard Really Become a Jungle Vegetarian? Find Out in This Delightfully Funny Picture Book

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“Dear animals, take a chance on me!
Let me prove I’ve changed; just come and see!
It will be a party like never before,
A night that’s remembered for evermore.’’

Larry the big, bad Leopard is lonely not having any friends.
He decides to make amends and invites all the animals to a fabulous party.
But should they give Larry a second chance….

An uplifting, laugh-out-loud tale with a surprise ending that teaches a valuable lesson about being too trusting. It reminds us to listen to our instincts and make good choices, especially when it comes to picking our friends. “A Leopard Never Changes its Spots” is a cautionary tale that is full of excitement and adventure and is sure to be bedtime favourite while teaching an essential moral life lesson.

100% of profits from “A Leopard Never Changes its Spots" go to children’s charities. We support KidsOR, who save children’s lives in the world’s poorest countries, and The Reading Clinic, who help children with dyslexia and dyscalculia. Thank you for helping us to sustain this must needed work.

36 pages, Paperback

Published May 16, 2024

1 person is currently reading
40 people want to read

About the author

Hilary Lawrence

5 books13 followers
Being a mother of three children, Hilary Lawrence understands the important role that strong core values and beliefs play in our children's development. In today's world, having a strong north is essential!

Lessons that children learn from loved ones and their education enrich, teach, and provide direction not only in the early years of development but throughout life.

Lawrence’s books are based on famous proverbs that have been part of British culture for hundreds of years. Too many times in history lessons similar to these have been lost and not successfully passed through the generations. Her books remind us of these sayings and bring them to life in beautifully illustrated rhyming stories that appeal to young children. In doing so, she hopes to protect them for generations to come.

Lawrence hopes these books and sayings resonate with you and that you enjoy sharing their lessons with your children too.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for Louise Jane.
441 reviews79 followers
July 4, 2025
Hilary Lawrence's creations have positively captivated me, and I find myself endlessly echoing my admiration for her work! If you're a parent of young children, I can't recommend her books highly enough; but in all honesty, they're wonderful reads for everyone, not just for the youngsters.

One of the standout lessons in this book, "A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots," is the importance of being discerning in whom we trust. This vital message is delivered in a brilliantly humorous manner, ensuring that children grasp the concept without feeling overwhelmed. The narrative emphasises the significance of choosing good friends, a lesson that is essential to instill early in life. So, while the book is filled with fun and enjoyment, it also lays down core values that can be transformative, making it a valuable addition to any child's library. Additionally, I appreciate the inclusion of fascinating insights about leopards and the origins of the proverb, boosting the enjoyment of flipping through the pages.

Overall, Lawrence's masterpieces, this one among them, have become cherished staples in my household, and I enthusiastically suggest them to families, homeschoolers, classrooms, and libraries worldwide. Her tales are grounded in age-old proverbs that have stood the test of time, and the wisdom they impart will always hold significance. I sincerely wish for her work to reach as many people as possible, as it has the power to enlighten and inspire countless children across the globe.
Profile Image for Emmanuel John.
11 reviews
November 4, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots by Hilary Lawrence and Katherine Summerville is a delightful, heartwarming, and witty picture book that both children and adults will adore. From the very first page, Larry the Leopard captures your attention, a once fearsome predator now hoping to make amends and prove he’s changed. The story’s playful rhyme, paired with its charming illustrations, makes it a joy to read aloud.

Beyond its humor and fun, the book delivers a powerful and timeless message about trust, forgiveness, and following one’s instincts. It encourages children to think critically about friendship and second chances in a way that feels natural, engaging, and never preachy.

The ending is clever and unexpected, a perfect mix of laughter and reflection that will leave young readers giggling while giving parents something meaningful to discuss.

It’s also heartening to know that 100% of the profits go to children’s charities, making this book not only a great read but also a wonderful act of kindness.

A beautifully written, laugh out loud story with an important lesson, A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is sure to become a bedtime favorite and a cherished addition to any child’s bookshelf.
8 reviews
September 25, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots is pure picture book magic. From the very first rhyme, Hilary Lawrence and Katherine Summerville draw you into Larry the Leopard’s world with playful language and vibrant energy. The story strikes the perfect balance of laugh out loud fun and gentle wisdom, showing little readers that listening to your instincts and making smart choices can be just as exciting as a jungle party.

The illustrations sparkle with personality, and the rhymes dance off the page this is the kind of book kids will beg to hear again and again and parents will happily oblige. I especially love that every sale supports children’s charities, which makes turning each page feel even more meaningful.

A witty, heart warming tale with a brilliant twist ending, this book will leave both children and grown ups grinning from ear to ear. Bravo to the authors for creating a story that entertains, teaches, and gives back all at once!
5 reviews
November 4, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a hilarious and heartwarming picture book that reimagines the old saying with wit and wonder. Hilary Lawrence delivers a lively rhyming tale about a leopard who’s ready to turn over a new leaf, maybe even become a jungle vegetarian! The playful verse is perfectly matched by Katherine Summerville’s bright, expressive illustrations that bring every animal (and emotion) to life.

Kids will be drawn in by the humor and rhythm, while adults will appreciate the clever message about change, forgiveness, and giving others a chance. This story is bursting with charm, color, and laughter, an instant favorite for bedtime reading or classroom fun.

A delightful reminder that even the fiercest spots can shine with kindness.
9 reviews
January 5, 2026
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a funny, clever picture book with a powerful lesson. Larry the leopard’s party invitation scene really stood out to me, the animals arrive full of hope, yet there’s an uneasy feeling that keeps you turning the pages. The surprise ending is both entertaining and wise, gently reminding readers to trust their instincts and choose friends carefully.

The story is playful, engaging, and perfect for bedtime, while still offering an important moral without being preachy. Knowing that all profits support children’s charities makes this book even more special. Prayers and blessings to the authors for their kind hearts and commitment to helping less-privileged children. A truly meaningful and enjoyable read.
9 reviews
September 22, 2025
A charming and witty picture book with a clever twist at the end! Larry the leopard’s attempt to win friends makes for a fun and engaging story that had me smiling throughout. The rhymes flow beautifully, making it a joy to read aloud, and the lesson about trust and listening to your instincts is delivered in such a playful yet meaningful way.

The illustrations are lively, the humor is spot on, and the surprise ending makes it one of those books kids will want to revisit again and again. Even better, knowing that all profits go toward children’s charities makes this book not just delightful, but impactful. A new bedtime favorite with heart and purpose!
8 reviews
September 23, 2025
This is such a delightful and clever picture book! The story of Larry the Leopard is funny, engaging, and full of charm, while also weaving in an important lesson about trust and making wise choices. The rhymes flow beautifully, making it a joy to read aloud, and the surprise ending will definitely make kids giggle. It’s one of those rare books that entertains while gently teaching an essential life value. The fact that all profits go to children’s charities makes it even more special, I’m so glad I picked this up!
5 reviews
October 20, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots is a funny, clever, and beautifully written tale that keeps readers guessing until the end. Hilary Lawrence’s rhyming story is full of charm, heart, and just the right touch of mischief. Larry the Leopard is a lovable rogue, and his party invitation brings both laughs and life lessons. The book delivers an important message about trust and making wise choices.
Katherine Summerville’s vibrant illustrations bring the jungle and its quirky characters to life.
A delightful story with purpose, made even better by supporting children’s charities.
8 reviews1 follower
October 20, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots is a witty, heart warming jungle tale that turns an old proverb into a laugh out loud lesson on change, trust, and friendship. Hilary Lawrence’s playful rhymes and Katherine Summerville’s lively illustrations make the story burst with color and charm. Larry the Leopard’s attempt to become a vegetarian is both hilarious and surprisingly touching, reminding readers that wanting to change is one thing, but earning trust takes time. A delightful read-aloud with a clever message for kids and adults alike.
Profile Image for Kimijo.
197 reviews4 followers
November 12, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots is a delightful picture book that blends humor, adventure, and an important life lesson. Larry the Leopard’s attempt to change his ways makes for a hilarious yet meaningful story about trust, forgiveness, and following your instincts. The rhymes are fun to read aloud, the illustrations are vibrant, and the surprise ending will leave kids laughing and thinking. Even better, 100% of the profits go to children’s charities, making this charming book as generous as it is entertaining. A perfect bedtime favorite for families!
2 reviews
December 22, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a clever, laugh out loud picture book that delivers far more than charming rhymes and colorful fun. Behind Larry the Leopard’s party invitation lies a smart, gently cautionary message about trust, instincts, and choosing friends wisely. The storytelling is playful yet purposeful, with a surprise ending that sparks meaningful conversations without dampening the joy. Heartwarming, humorous, and thoughtfully written, this book entertains young readers while quietly empowering them making it a standout bedtime favorite with a message that truly sticks.
5 reviews
December 31, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a fun, rhyming picture book with a smart twist. Larry the Leopard’s cheerful party invitation sounds friendly but the scene where the animals hesitate and debate whether to attend perfectly captures that uneasy should we trust him? feeling.

The illustrations add humor and subtle clues, and the ending delivers a satisfying surprise without being preachy. A great bedtime story that teaches children to trust their instincts and judge by actions, not promises. Clever, memorable, and meaningful.
5 reviews
September 22, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a delightful, witty picture book with a big heart. Larry the leopard’s quest for friendship is both funny and meaningful, with a surprise ending that cleverly delivers an important life lesson about trust and instincts. The rhymes are engaging, the story is uplifting, and the charitable cause behind it makes it even more special. A wonderful bedtime read that children (and parents!) will love.
4 reviews
September 22, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots is a delightful story! Larry the leopard’s quest for friendship is funny, engaging, and full of charm, while the clever twist delivers an important lesson in a way children will easily understand. The rhymes are smooth, the humor keeps little ones laughing, and knowing that profits support children’s charities makes it even more meaningful. A wonderful choice for bedtime reading!
6 reviews1 follower
September 23, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots is a delightful mix of humor, suspense, and a gentle life lesson. Larry the Leopard’s party invitation had me smiling from the start, and the surprise ending is both clever and memorable. The rhyming text flows beautifully for read aloud time, and the illustrations bring the jungle to life. I also love that all profits support children’s charities, reading a great story while helping a good cause makes this book even more special.
2 reviews
November 12, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a delightful story packed with humor, heart, and a valuable lesson. Larry the leopard’s quest to prove he’s changed will make kids laugh while teaching them about trust, instincts, and forgiveness. The rhymes are fun to read aloud, and the vibrant illustrations bring the jungle to life. A perfect mix of entertainment and meaning, and knowing all profits go to children’s charities makes it even more special. A must, have bedtime favorite!
Profile Image for Patrica Smith.
18 reviews2 followers
November 15, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots is a charming, laugh out loud story with a wonderful message about trust and making good choices. Larry the Leopard is unforgettable, and the surprise ending will delight kids every time. The illustrations are vibrant, the rhythm is fun to read aloud, and the moral is beautifully delivered. A lovely book with an even lovelier purpose, knowing all profits help children’s charities makes it a truly special read. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Javier Leffers.
13 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a funny, heartwarming tale that teaches children an important lesson about trust and making good choices. Larry the Leopard is instantly lovable, and the lively illustrations make the story even more engaging. It’s entertaining, thoughtful, and perfect for bedtime reading. Knowing that all profits support children’s charities makes this book even more special. Highly recommended.
3 reviews
December 22, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots delivers humor, rhythm, and a clever twist that keeps both children and adults engaged. Larry’s charming invitation sparks laughter at first, then gently nudges readers to think deeper about trust, instincts, and wise choices. The playful rhymes pair beautifully with the underlying cautionary message, making this more than just a funny bedtime read. Heartwarming, memorable, and meaningful, this is a picture book with a moral that truly sticks.
10 reviews
January 5, 2026
A truly delightful and meaningful picture book! The party invitation scene where Larry promises he has changed had my whole family laughing and holding our breath especially as the animals debated whether to trust him. The surprise ending sparked great conversations with my kids about listening to our instincts and choosing friends wisely. Everyone in my family loved this book, and it’s become a bedtime favorite we happily reread.
9 reviews
September 23, 2025
What a clever and heartwarming story! Larry’s party had me smiling from start to finish, and the twist at the end was perfect, funny yet meaningful. I love how the book balances playful rhymes with an important lesson about trust and friendship. A delightful read that children (and adults!) will want to revisit again and again.
Profile Image for Alabama Rose.
14 reviews3 followers
October 14, 2025
This hilarious and heartwarming picture book flips an old saying on its head! When Leopard decides to go vegetarian, the whole jungle is thrown into chaos. With witty writing and a clever message about identity and change, this story is perfect for kids who love animals and a good laugh. A fun, thoughtful read-aloud for families and classrooms alike!
13 reviews
October 14, 2025
A fun, clever, and beautifully rhymed story about change, trust, and jungle antics! Leopard throws a party to prove he’s gone vegetarian, but can the other animals believe him? Kids will love the humor and surprise twist, and adults will appreciate the deeper message. A delightful read from start to finish!
11 reviews
October 14, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a hilarious and heartwarming tale of one jungle cat’s wild attempt to go vegetarian. Hilary Lawrence’s witty storytelling and Katherine Summerville’s vibrant illustrations make this a fun, thoughtful read about change, identity, and embracing who you are. Perfect for giggles at storytime!
4 reviews
October 20, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a charming and witty picture book that delivers laughs and heart in equal measure. With playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations, Hilary Lawrence and Katherine Summerville cleverly explore themes of change, trust, and second chances. A delightful read for kids and adults alike.
Profile Image for Stephen Lewis.
5 reviews
November 12, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots is a funny, clever, and heartwarming tale about friendship, trust, and second chances. Larry the Leopard is unforgettable, and the story’s rhythm makes it perfect for bedtime reading. The illustrations burst with life, and the message is both wise and uplifting. Even better, every purchase helps children in need. A true gem of a book!
2 reviews
November 12, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots" is a hilarious and heartwarming tale about friendship, trust, and making good choices. Larry the leopard’s antics will have kids laughing, while the story teaches an important life lesson. Delightful, engaging, and perfect for bedtime reading, plus, 100% of profits go to children’s charities.
Profile Image for gj indieBRAG.
1,805 reviews97 followers
March 9, 2026
We proudly announce that A LEOPARD NEVER CHANGES ITS SPOTS by Hilary Lawrence
has been honored with the B.R.A.G. Medallion (Book Readers’ Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG. This award is a testament to this book's quality and its impact on readers.
Profile Image for Ella Reed.
39 reviews
September 23, 2025
A Leopard Never Changes its Spots is such a fun, clever, and heartwarming read! Larry the Leopard’s party had me laughing and guessing right to the end, and the twist delivered an important life lesson beautifully. A perfect bedtime favorite with a message that sticks. Loved it!
Profile Image for Hilary Lawrence.
Author 5 books13 followers
June 5, 2025
Favourite bedtime story in our house.
Teaches great lesson too.
Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews

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