The Lion And The Mouse

by Ian Andrews

A reproduction of the classic fable about the lion and the mouse, beloved by readers throughout the ages, is brought to life by intricate pencil illustrations.

32 pages, Library Binding

Published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Christie Kaaland · Rating 5 out of 5]

An almost religious tone introduces the lion as king ("Lord Lion"), "Let no creature come before me." in the classic Aesop fable. The artist's use of magisterial language, expanded text, and the artist's use of white space and perspective create greater suspense than past versions.

The mouse, freezes simply near the lion's path, and crouches in fear, his heart beating wildly. As the lion moves on and soon lies down to rest, his dreams are interrupted by the ever-so-slight movement, "touch on the fur of his great velvet paw." Lion spares his life, and when soon after the lion is ensnared in the hunter's net, the mouse, "someone who remembered his kindness", returns the favor.

Andrews' version brings a deep consideration to the fable's themes of mutual respect, size doesn't always matter, kindness begets kindness.

[Shelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my favorite illustrated version of this book. Pity that there isn't a cover picture or even names the illustrator, which is Ian Andrew. ISBN #1-56294-658-7. This classic fable from Aesop is one that has been retold and revamped 100 different times. Never underestimate the value of any person or in this case mouse.