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The Lion Above the Door
From Onjali Q. Rauf, the award-winning and best-selling author of The Boy at the Back of the Class, comes an incredible story about missing histories and the concept of a universal family, told with humour and heart.
Leo and his best friend Sangeeta are the odd ones out in their school. But as Leo's dad is always telling him, it's because they're special. Only thing is, if they're so special, how come they never see anyone who looks like them in their school history books?
Then, on a class trip to a nearby cathedral, Leo's attention is drawn to a large marble slab high above the doors of the hall. Right there, bang in the middle of a list of war heroes, Leo finds himself staring at something incredible: his own name.
Desperate to know who this other Leo was, the two friends embark on a search. And together, they begin to uncover missing stories from the past, ones which they are determined to put back into their rightful place in the pages of history.
Touching on themes of historical racism, The Lion Above the Door shines a light on the stories our history books have yet to contain and the power of friendships that can last through generations.
The first edition of this book also contains a special collection of historical photos and stories of real life forgotten heroes from World War Two.
Leo and his best friend Sangeeta are the odd ones out in their school. But as Leo's dad is always telling him, it's because they're special. Only thing is, if they're so special, how come they never see anyone who looks like them in their school history books?
Then, on a class trip to a nearby cathedral, Leo's attention is drawn to a large marble slab high above the doors of the hall. Right there, bang in the middle of a list of war heroes, Leo finds himself staring at something incredible: his own name.
Desperate to know who this other Leo was, the two friends embark on a search. And together, they begin to uncover missing stories from the past, ones which they are determined to put back into their rightful place in the pages of history.
Touching on themes of historical racism, The Lion Above the Door shines a light on the stories our history books have yet to contain and the power of friendships that can last through generations.
The first edition of this book also contains a special collection of historical photos and stories of real life forgotten heroes from World War Two.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
59 people are currently reading
945 people want to read
About the author
Onjali Q. Raúf
27 books288 followersOnjali Q. Rauf is the founder of Making Herstory, an organisation mobilising men, women and children from all walks of life to tackle the abuse and trafficking of women and girls in the UK and beyond. In her spare time she delivers emergency aid convoys for refugee families surviving in Calais and Dunkirk, and supports interfaith projects.
Her first novel, The Boy at the Back of the Class, has sold over 100,000 copies and won multiple awards. Her second book, The Star Outside My Window, publishes in October 2019.
Her first novel, The Boy at the Back of the Class, has sold over 100,000 copies and won multiple awards. Her second book, The Star Outside My Window, publishes in October 2019.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
October 31, 2021
I would give 'The Lion Above the Door' more than a 5-star review if I could.
As a teacher who teaches WWI and WWII every year, I will now completely change the way I change these and any other historical topic due to this book and the insight it has given me.
The Lion Above the Door centres around Leo and his best friend Sangeeta and events that take place in their school in a small village called Whot. Leo's class is studying WWII and on a school visit to a museum and a cathedral is where Leo notices his name (full name) above a memorial. It is this event where the story soon begins to unfold. It's Leo's relentless search to discover the origins of his name that brings the story to life.
The class also finds itself competing for a place on the tv programme - 'Real Kidz Rule' where the class would be featured in a Remembrance Day segment. The story continues where the reader meets Toby (the class bully) and his sidekick Catherine. Toby has taken a dislike to Leo, name-calling, throwing tennis balls at him, and pushing and shoving when the teacher isn't around. The author highlights racism throughout the book and how Toby makes Leo feel. This theme along with the themes of friendship and family-run strongly throughout the pages and the theme of prejudice towards the 'forgotten heroes' has highlighted why my teaching practice needs to change.
The book would be perfect for upper KS2 children and the author richly describes her characters so much so that you can imagine them in the classroom, from Olivia who the class is in awe of due to her 'no mess' attitude, to Mr Scott, the classroom teacher who constantly thumps on the desk to emphasise his point.
I would also advocate that every primary teacher should read this book - although it's entertaining and I read it in a day, it has made a huge impact on my mindset when it comes to my teaching - I cant wait to share it with my class - they are going to love it!
As a teacher who teaches WWI and WWII every year, I will now completely change the way I change these and any other historical topic due to this book and the insight it has given me.
The Lion Above the Door centres around Leo and his best friend Sangeeta and events that take place in their school in a small village called Whot. Leo's class is studying WWII and on a school visit to a museum and a cathedral is where Leo notices his name (full name) above a memorial. It is this event where the story soon begins to unfold. It's Leo's relentless search to discover the origins of his name that brings the story to life.
The class also finds itself competing for a place on the tv programme - 'Real Kidz Rule' where the class would be featured in a Remembrance Day segment. The story continues where the reader meets Toby (the class bully) and his sidekick Catherine. Toby has taken a dislike to Leo, name-calling, throwing tennis balls at him, and pushing and shoving when the teacher isn't around. The author highlights racism throughout the book and how Toby makes Leo feel. This theme along with the themes of friendship and family-run strongly throughout the pages and the theme of prejudice towards the 'forgotten heroes' has highlighted why my teaching practice needs to change.
The book would be perfect for upper KS2 children and the author richly describes her characters so much so that you can imagine them in the classroom, from Olivia who the class is in awe of due to her 'no mess' attitude, to Mr Scott, the classroom teacher who constantly thumps on the desk to emphasise his point.
I would also advocate that every primary teacher should read this book - although it's entertaining and I read it in a day, it has made a huge impact on my mindset when it comes to my teaching - I cant wait to share it with my class - they are going to love it!
December 12, 2021
A very important read and will be in my classroom soon!
March 12, 2022
An incredibly captivating and moving story about forgotten heroes. Gorgeous story.
April 22, 2022
"That's the problem with being the only ones who look different to everyone else. There's always someone who look different to everyone else. There's always someone who doesn't like you, and then doesn't like you even more when you can do something that they can't."
What a beautiful book.
Often historical focus reads are found in adult fiction and we never realise that kids are exposed through the experience of racism, history and curiosity in school.
I found the truth in (in my experience) why in school our curriculum of history is about Hitler and never about our own Asian histories, heroes and stories.
The curiosity of Leo got him into a journey of learning more than just about forgotten heroes but racism, people's attitude towards history, family dynamic and understanding about himself too.
The relationship dynamic of Leo and his family was so good.
I love it wasn't a stereotype of an oppress Asian family that books and movies always depicts of us.
We have diversity, different growing up environment, etc.
Seeing Leo and his loving family have conversation, being supportive and having their own identity was a big win for me.
I do not - I do not like doing those things. But I have to. Because if I fight back, then they win. If I fight back, I turn into the very thing they want me to be - uneducated, ill-mannered, and rude. But I am not those things. We are not those things - they are. So, I try to be nice and forgiving, even in the face of their rudeness and ignorance. I show them that I am bigger than them."
What a beautiful book.
Often historical focus reads are found in adult fiction and we never realise that kids are exposed through the experience of racism, history and curiosity in school.
I found the truth in (in my experience) why in school our curriculum of history is about Hitler and never about our own Asian histories, heroes and stories.
The curiosity of Leo got him into a journey of learning more than just about forgotten heroes but racism, people's attitude towards history, family dynamic and understanding about himself too.
The relationship dynamic of Leo and his family was so good.
I love it wasn't a stereotype of an oppress Asian family that books and movies always depicts of us.
We have diversity, different growing up environment, etc.
Seeing Leo and his loving family have conversation, being supportive and having their own identity was a big win for me.
I do not - I do not like doing those things. But I have to. Because if I fight back, then they win. If I fight back, I turn into the very thing they want me to be - uneducated, ill-mannered, and rude. But I am not those things. We are not those things - they are. So, I try to be nice and forgiving, even in the face of their rudeness and ignorance. I show them that I am bigger than them."
September 5, 2021
Onjali Q Rauf has written another excellent children’s novel. Similarly to her previous stories she has the skill of capturing the voices of the young protagonists without being patronising and conveying their hopes and fears in a truly realistic manner. All of her books make the reader reflect on how children and adults interact and respect one another from different faults and heritage. The Lion Above The Door is an important book in so many ways as it draws attention to the “forgotten and ignored” people who gave their lives to fight with the allies in WWII. On a school visit Leo sees a memorial carved with his name and then begins his journey to discover who this person was and ultimately the role they played in World War II as Malayan fighter pilot over Europe. Along with his friends Sanghetta and Olivia , they begin to research their relatives roles in the war against the backdrop of a class assembly and television programme being filmed in school. Racism within the class is not avoided. The story is much like a detective story as the children research their families. The relationship between Leo and his father is powerful as in Leo’ s eyes his father doesn’t appear to fight back against prejudice ( particularly living in an English countryside village community)but as the story moves forward the two come together in their understanding. In a world where nationalism is rising and history is being exploited by certain groups to often build a white-centric vision of the past ,this book is so important and the story is shared so that younger generations finally peel away the blinkered view / perspective of historical events .This is a book I will be highly recommending to my colleagues in KS 2 and also for learners/ readers to enjoy . Another winner.
November 9, 2021
Onjali Q Rauf has, this time, tapped into the fact that in this country the history of WW1/2 taught to our children is predominantly that of a white history. I knew about soldiers from the Commonwealth that helped the British during the wars, however, the degree to which some countries were involved has not been acknowledged.
The story follows Leo, a boy whose parents came to live in England before he was born from Singapore. The fact that he is British makes no difference to the school bullies. He describes the feeling of a bruise inside him that hurts whenever something bad happens. He is angry when his dad witnesses these events and doesn't say anything. His friend Sangeeta, has the same problem. Together they also have friends called Nancy and Drew.
On a school trip, which the bullies don't go on as they haven't returned their slip, he finds 'his' name above the door of a Cathedral on a memorial, and Sangeeta finds the name R Singh. This begins an adventure to find out about those that gave their lives for Britain and the allies during the war. They are joined in their quest by Olivia, who reveals that despite her white skin she is mixed race and her Dad family originate from Ghana and her Great Grandfather is one of those forgotten heroes. The fact that Olivia is not afraid of Toby and Catherine helps Leo and his friends.
In the background of the " Forgotten Heroes" theme is the children's treatment at the hands of Toby and Catherine. Do the bullies succeed or can the children emulate Leo's dad who explains that if he acted the same way he would be lowering himself to their level and he isn't that type of person and never will be.
I loved this book and will be attempting to get it into school.
The story follows Leo, a boy whose parents came to live in England before he was born from Singapore. The fact that he is British makes no difference to the school bullies. He describes the feeling of a bruise inside him that hurts whenever something bad happens. He is angry when his dad witnesses these events and doesn't say anything. His friend Sangeeta, has the same problem. Together they also have friends called Nancy and Drew.
On a school trip, which the bullies don't go on as they haven't returned their slip, he finds 'his' name above the door of a Cathedral on a memorial, and Sangeeta finds the name R Singh. This begins an adventure to find out about those that gave their lives for Britain and the allies during the war. They are joined in their quest by Olivia, who reveals that despite her white skin she is mixed race and her Dad family originate from Ghana and her Great Grandfather is one of those forgotten heroes. The fact that Olivia is not afraid of Toby and Catherine helps Leo and his friends.
In the background of the " Forgotten Heroes" theme is the children's treatment at the hands of Toby and Catherine. Do the bullies succeed or can the children emulate Leo's dad who explains that if he acted the same way he would be lowering himself to their level and he isn't that type of person and never will be.
I loved this book and will be attempting to get it into school.
December 1, 2021
The month of Remembrance Day, Veterans Day, and Armistice Day felt like an appropriate one for Sophie to read The Lion Above the Door by Onjali Q. Raúf, a middle-grade novel that looks at not only how we remember past conflicts, but also who gets to be remembered.
Leo and his best friend Sangeeta are Year Four pupils at their primary school in southern England where they are also some of the only children of color. Their class is working on the topic of World War Two and both the children notice that none of the photographs in their history books are of people who look like them, nor do any of the heroes discussed there have similar names. However, on a field trip to Rochester Cathedral, Leo spots something incredible. Inside is a wall dedicated to soldiers from all over the former British Empire and included there is his exact name, along with many others – some sharing Sangeeta’s surname, Singh.
Leo vows to include his namesake’s story in the class project, one that has a chance to be shown on national TV, but no matter how hard he tries, he struggles to learn anything about the man. It seems as if all the men and women on the memorial war have been left out of the history books. He, Sangeeta, and a few allies come up with a cunning plan to make sure the heroes aren’t forgotten, but can they overcome red tape, family tensions, and other people determined to see them fail?
Sophie absolutely loved The Lion Above the Door which handled the sensitive topic of race and racism in history perfectly. Leo experiences the impact of racism in many different ways – from direct name-calling by classmates to the missing chapters in a history book and to his own family’s attitude to those around them – and although this is hard to read, it is also eye-opening to see how the many micro-aggressions he encounters every day have formed what he calls an invisible bruise inside him. She also appreciated that not everything falls into place perfectly by the end, as can sometimes happen in middle-grade books. Not everyone learns the error of their ways by the end, just as they don’t in real life.
Despite handling a heavy topic, this was a fun book that captured young friendship and the feeling of being back at primary school. With a pair of instantly relatable characters and a well-fleshed-out supporting cast too, Sophie found this to be one of the best middle-grade books she has read this year.
Leo and his best friend Sangeeta are Year Four pupils at their primary school in southern England where they are also some of the only children of color. Their class is working on the topic of World War Two and both the children notice that none of the photographs in their history books are of people who look like them, nor do any of the heroes discussed there have similar names. However, on a field trip to Rochester Cathedral, Leo spots something incredible. Inside is a wall dedicated to soldiers from all over the former British Empire and included there is his exact name, along with many others – some sharing Sangeeta’s surname, Singh.
Leo vows to include his namesake’s story in the class project, one that has a chance to be shown on national TV, but no matter how hard he tries, he struggles to learn anything about the man. It seems as if all the men and women on the memorial war have been left out of the history books. He, Sangeeta, and a few allies come up with a cunning plan to make sure the heroes aren’t forgotten, but can they overcome red tape, family tensions, and other people determined to see them fail?
Sophie absolutely loved The Lion Above the Door which handled the sensitive topic of race and racism in history perfectly. Leo experiences the impact of racism in many different ways – from direct name-calling by classmates to the missing chapters in a history book and to his own family’s attitude to those around them – and although this is hard to read, it is also eye-opening to see how the many micro-aggressions he encounters every day have formed what he calls an invisible bruise inside him. She also appreciated that not everything falls into place perfectly by the end, as can sometimes happen in middle-grade books. Not everyone learns the error of their ways by the end, just as they don’t in real life.
Despite handling a heavy topic, this was a fun book that captured young friendship and the feeling of being back at primary school. With a pair of instantly relatable characters and a well-fleshed-out supporting cast too, Sophie found this to be one of the best middle-grade books she has read this year.
September 26, 2021
Leo and Sangeeta stand out from their class because of their skin colour and culture – and at times they are bullied because of this. Leo’s Dad says they need to be on their best behaviour at all times and he seems willing to tolerate the racism; the accumulated effect of prejudice leaves Leo feeling emotionally (and sometimes physically) bruised. On a class trip an RAF museum, Leo sees pictures of heroes like the ones in the history books – no one who looks like him. But on that same trip, he sees a commemoration stone of an RAF hero who had the exact same name as him –Leo Kai Lim. So begins the quest to find out more about this hero and others like him. The TV series Real Kidz Rule Remembrance Day competition seems exactly the right forum to tell these forgotten heroes’ stories.
This is a powerful novel exploring courage, friendship, historical/current racism and forgotten histories. As always with Rauf’s novels, her protagonists are interesting, determined and willing to learn. Some of the scenes are hilarious – the accidental setting off of the flight simulator incident is superb – and other scenes will make you cry (no spoilers, but red paint and family connections around the world are involved).
This novel will also make you think carefully about ignored heroes that students should be learning about. As a History & English teacher, I have a chance to transform the curriculum to eliminate cultural blind-spots, and to celebrate all contributions to our shared human experience.
Highly recommended for Year 4+; eminently suitable as a read aloud for Year 7’s.
This is a powerful novel exploring courage, friendship, historical/current racism and forgotten histories. As always with Rauf’s novels, her protagonists are interesting, determined and willing to learn. Some of the scenes are hilarious – the accidental setting off of the flight simulator incident is superb – and other scenes will make you cry (no spoilers, but red paint and family connections around the world are involved).
This novel will also make you think carefully about ignored heroes that students should be learning about. As a History & English teacher, I have a chance to transform the curriculum to eliminate cultural blind-spots, and to celebrate all contributions to our shared human experience.
Highly recommended for Year 4+; eminently suitable as a read aloud for Year 7’s.
October 16, 2021
When Leo and Sangeeta go on a class trip to Rochester cathedral, Leo spots a name on one of the war memorials that is identical to his own. He begins to wonder about the “real” Leo - who he was and what he did during the war. When the class embark on a project following on from the trip, they decide to focus on the forgotten heroes of the war - which includes soldiers from Asia and Africa.
As the children embark on their research they find that there isn’t much written in the history books so they enlist the help of their families and relatives around the world.
Racism is an important element in the book. Leo and Sangeeta are bullied by some members of the class and told to “go home”. Leo frequently refers to being different and talks about people who look like him. The author has not shied away from this difficult subject but has tackled it head on. The subject they choose for the project, “forgotten heroes” allows the children in the class to research real people, regardless of their ethnic background, which shows inclusivity.
This is, on the surface, a great story about a school project, and the scrapes they get into along the way. However it would also be a fantastic vehicle for discussing with children the way people are treated and the casual racism found too often in schools.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
As the children embark on their research they find that there isn’t much written in the history books so they enlist the help of their families and relatives around the world.
Racism is an important element in the book. Leo and Sangeeta are bullied by some members of the class and told to “go home”. Leo frequently refers to being different and talks about people who look like him. The author has not shied away from this difficult subject but has tackled it head on. The subject they choose for the project, “forgotten heroes” allows the children in the class to research real people, regardless of their ethnic background, which shows inclusivity.
This is, on the surface, a great story about a school project, and the scrapes they get into along the way. However it would also be a fantastic vehicle for discussing with children the way people are treated and the casual racism found too often in schools.
I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2021
Onjali Q Rauf's loyal fanbase will be pleased to hear of a new novel. True to form, the Lion Above the Door explores important social issues while capturing voices from the younger generation in a most relatable manner.
The story broaches the topic of cultural blindspots in history education, posing questions about the missing and ignored figures from the history topics taught in schools. Young Leo is intrigued to find a WW2 memorial in which he recognises his own name; being of Singaporean heritage he has become used to rarely seeing people like himself reflected in the history books. As Leo and his classmates research their relatives' roles in the war, important stories come to surface and it's up to the children to make sure these histories get the spotlight they deserve.
This is a sincere and timely story that gently turns over themes of prejudice, cultural underrepresentation, racism and the courage to put right societal injustice - while at once holding out the mantle to young readers to invite them to be the catalyst for change.
Many thanks to the publisher for sending us an early copy for review. This book is featured on our Autumn 2021 Ones to Watch selection: https://www.booksfortopics.com/post/o...
The story broaches the topic of cultural blindspots in history education, posing questions about the missing and ignored figures from the history topics taught in schools. Young Leo is intrigued to find a WW2 memorial in which he recognises his own name; being of Singaporean heritage he has become used to rarely seeing people like himself reflected in the history books. As Leo and his classmates research their relatives' roles in the war, important stories come to surface and it's up to the children to make sure these histories get the spotlight they deserve.
This is a sincere and timely story that gently turns over themes of prejudice, cultural underrepresentation, racism and the courage to put right societal injustice - while at once holding out the mantle to young readers to invite them to be the catalyst for change.
Many thanks to the publisher for sending us an early copy for review. This book is featured on our Autumn 2021 Ones to Watch selection: https://www.booksfortopics.com/post/o...
September 4, 2021
Another triumph from an incredible writer. Onjali Ralf has done it again. It sounds cliched to say “I laughed, I cried” but I genuinely laughed out loud whilst reading, got choked up by the emotional ending, and stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it. It’s safe to say that I loved it.
Leo, a boy living in the UK but of Singaporean descent, cannot see anyone who looked like him when studying World War 2- all the names sound like British royalty, and he feels like his ancestry are lesser to his classmates. Until, he spots a name on the cathedral wall honouring the soldiers from WW2, and not just any name- his own name. Suddenly, Leo wants to know, who was this soldier, what is his story, and could he have been named after this Leo? The race is on, especially as his class have been chosen to prepare an assembly and display board which might even make it onto TV. Can he find out the information in time, to make everyone remember a forgotten hero?
A story that deals with racism, and the lived experiences of many children here in the UK, in a sensitive but insightful way, and delivers a hopeful and inspirational message.
Leo, a boy living in the UK but of Singaporean descent, cannot see anyone who looked like him when studying World War 2- all the names sound like British royalty, and he feels like his ancestry are lesser to his classmates. Until, he spots a name on the cathedral wall honouring the soldiers from WW2, and not just any name- his own name. Suddenly, Leo wants to know, who was this soldier, what is his story, and could he have been named after this Leo? The race is on, especially as his class have been chosen to prepare an assembly and display board which might even make it onto TV. Can he find out the information in time, to make everyone remember a forgotten hero?
A story that deals with racism, and the lived experiences of many children here in the UK, in a sensitive but insightful way, and delivers a hopeful and inspirational message.
December 25, 2021
Brilliantly written and ideally aimed at upper primary students. The ‘Lion above the door’ tells of a young boy and his friend who are bullied because of how they look. Racial prejudice is one of the worst crimes in society and it’s been happening for years. I can’t fathom why some people would think they are so much better than others. The story is based in a small village in the UK and the primary setting is a school where the students are learning about World War II. On an excursion to a RAF museum and cathedral, the main character Leo discovers something that will change his world. With the help of his family and friends, Leo helps to commemorate those forgotten heroes of WWII. The take-home message from this story is that prejudice and bias have no place in the scheme of things and you needs to be proud of your heritage, respect others and stand up for what you believe in.
December 29, 2021
Get your tissues ready for this emotional read.
Based on two pupils in England who are learning about World War II. They quickly notice that none of the heroes in any of history books look like them. They are all white and male. This is a sad truth and one that is explored very well throughout this book.
This book shares their journey of bringing forward the stories of Forgotten Heroes. This moving read is wonderful and I doubt you will want to put the book down once you start.
A special addition that I feel should be included in every book is on the first page Onjali's name is in her family's language - Bengali. This will mean so much to do many children who hide their languages or who don't see their languages.
Based on two pupils in England who are learning about World War II. They quickly notice that none of the heroes in any of history books look like them. They are all white and male. This is a sad truth and one that is explored very well throughout this book.
This book shares their journey of bringing forward the stories of Forgotten Heroes. This moving read is wonderful and I doubt you will want to put the book down once you start.
A special addition that I feel should be included in every book is on the first page Onjali's name is in her family's language - Bengali. This will mean so much to do many children who hide their languages or who don't see their languages.
August 30, 2022
I loved it is fantastic!!😘😘
March 12, 2022
Brilliant book-aimed beautifully for this age group. Rauf is awesome at what she does. Such Important lessons that don’t feel like lessons and moral codes, just excellent adventure stories.
December 30, 2021
I am a Singaporean and while I am glad to see Singapore being featured in the book, portrayal of Singapore is not quite accurate. I would hesitate to share this book with my children. Firstly, Singapore was a British Colony. During World War Two, Japan invaded Singapore and we were left to fight for ourselves after the British surrendered and left our island. We were not fighting for Churchill against the racist Nazis, we were fighting for our own survival. Secondly, the main Character Leo Kai Lim’s grandfather is supposedly named Huang Kai Lim. Is the family name Huang or Lim? If it is Huang, how can the boy be named Kai Lim? I am also not going into the fact that in Singapore, our family names are stated first followed by last name. The war hero is also named Leo Kai Lim, why does both the war hero and main character’s great grand father (Huang Kai Lim) share the same name? It is too confusing. Thirdly, while the writer included some Singapore culture in the story such as our food eg. ondeh ondeh, it feels like the writer is also mixing us up with Korea and China. Leo’s aunt exclaimed omo, which is a Korean expression, not Singaporean. And Leo’s family ate dumplings for dinner, which while Singapore being multi cultural and dumplings are enjoyed by locals, it is not a authentic Singaporean dish. Also, Leo is Chinese but based on book, he wears a “teluk belanga shirt” when guests came to his house which is a traditional costume of Malays (not Chinese).
I enjoy the theme around racism, celebrating and being proud of differences, however, the gap in portrayal of Singapore and our history created a distraction and feels like the writer did not do sufficient research to anchor story around a Singaporean boy and our history.
I enjoy the theme around racism, celebrating and being proud of differences, however, the gap in portrayal of Singapore and our history created a distraction and feels like the writer did not do sufficient research to anchor story around a Singaporean boy and our history.
April 9, 2022
Leo and Sangeeta are quietly bullied by some kids at school in their small village and Leo angrily takes it because they are in the minority and he has no conviction that anyone would either believe him or doing anything about it. On a school trip to a local museum, the discovery of memorials for servicemen that have names like theirs leads him to go down a path of discovery that lands him in a bit of trouble but makes his parents and others take notice. It’s great to have some representation for children of colour to see in mainstream middle grade books. I also became excited about the idea of finding some resources to back up this novel ready for ANZAC Day and a line of inquiry children are on at school into their ancestries. There are lots of pages at the back of the book with plenty of examples and information about how there were countries from all over the world represented in the Allied forces in the Second World War.
April 11, 2022
What a beautiful story! Captivating idea, told extremely well, and such an important subject as well. I will be recommending this highly in my library. It could inspire some fantastic school projects too. I even shed a tear at the very end!
July 10, 2022
cool book, a boy going out of his way to find out who was Leo? Because his same name was found on the wall of a cathedral! And helping forgotten heroes to be remembered (Not family heroes)
April 4, 2023
I loved the fact that this book teaches the children about the forgotten heroes of World War Two.
November 24, 2021
An important book, which highlights that acts of bravery during World War 2 were not just confined to white British/American/European people, but that more than 20 countries supported Allied forces including Singapore, Ghana and India - which all feature in this story.
August 26, 2023
Highly enjoyable book that I could never put down!!
December 17, 2024
I LOVE this book!! It’s quite inspiring and enticing! I always wanted to read more. It is inspirational as it is showing resilience in all of the characters actions and has a good moral about how kindness is key. It’s is also enthralling because of all of the history in this story. This was really enjoyable to read. I highly recommend this book!
November 12, 2021
Another great book by this author. I would defiantly recommend to anyone wanting a ride. Loved the historical aspects to this book as well. Glad I read
November 26, 2023
For someone whose country was one of the only countries that practically abstained from the second world war, It is difficult to be aware of this serious problem until you read this book, because you do not learn much in school about this topic, unfortunately. Thanks to the incredible writing of Onjali Q. Raúf, I managed despite living in another country than Leo's, to realize the gravity of the situation and decide to take a stand on this issue. After the moment I read the book, I promised myself that I will bring this theme to more people, just as Leo promised the other Leo.
May 8, 2022
Onjali Q Rauf is writing books that matter. Her ability to conjure up characters with warm hearts and goodness that spreads into the wider world is giving kids something to believe in and hold on to. While this isn’t my absolute favourite book of hers, it is a brilliant concept and powerfully delivers.
January 1, 2022
An important and worthwhile story about friendship and the courage to stand up for what's important. The writing is a little lightweight in places and the imagery not always well chosen but the intentions and overall execution are commendable.
June 17, 2022
This book was such a easy read and I loved the message behind it and the extra details at the back of the book so heart warminggg, this author is also so good love them
April 21, 2022
🪦The lion above the door by Onjali.Q.Rauf🪦
Leo has always wondered where his name comes from. Growing up in the small village of Whot, there isn’t much help for Leo to find out. However, on a school trip to a cathedral Leo uncovers his name emblazoned on the list of World War Two heroes. With his interest piqued, Leo begins a long journey to uncover his own history.
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Onjali’s novels seem to have similar themes in regards to a mostly introverted protagonist who is bullied and goes on a mission with friends to highlight a certain cause.
It would have been good to see some surprising or imaginative scenes in the book that would have maintained the readers engagement. For example, whilst in the museum Leo finds a door that takes him back in time where he actually meets the soldier Leo on the battlefield.
Even though the story is suppose to highlight racism. I felt that Leo’s struggle to prove that he had a world war “hero” for Britain enforces the good immigrant notion placed on ethnic children. It would have been better had Leo’s ancestor been a army hero or inventor in Indonesia who’s achievements were ignored.
I found Toby and Catherine’s bullying to be repetitive, unexplained and unresolved. I also found it unusual that Leo never talked back to Toby. It would have great to actually see why they had such animosity to Leo and Sangeeta. For example, their parents had told them how immigrants were taking their jobs. However, after seeing how ethnic soldiers helped in the war, they change their minds.
Although, I found the displays becoming vandalised to be a interesting turn of events. There wasn’t any punishment given to Catherine after confessing. Also, the fact that they didn’t win the “real kidz rule show” competition in the end was underwhelming. This was especially the case as it was constantly brought up through the entire story.
I liked the plan carried out by Leo, Saengeeta and Olivia to find the documents in the museum. However, it quickly became short-lived and uninteresting when they were easily caught.
I felt that the museum staff calling all their parents and Mr.Scott sounded overwhelming for Leo only boarding the simulator when it was closed. I really would have like to see a chase scene in the museum with Leo and his friends and the museum staff. It would also have been great if Leo had added names to the wall to include forgotten heroes he felt had been censored.
Although, Onjali does highlight the racism and prejudice faced by ethnic soldiers during World War Two in her notes in the end. It would have been better had this been incorporated in the story. For example, Leo, Sangeets and Olivia decide to incorporate the racism faced by coloured soldiers during the assembly finale despite their teacher disapproving.
The actual Leo’s story in the end is brief and not very detailed. It would have really been great if Leo was related to his hero and ends up being gifted with his medals in the finale. It would also have been nice if Leo found his diary entry where he discussed being left out because of his race, culture etc.
Overall, “the lion above the door” is a factually accurate novel detailing the importance of forgotten soldiers and their impact. It is very clear that Onjali put a lot of time, effort and work into researching historic records of World War Two for this novel. It can definitely be utilised in schools to educate students on the diverse soldiers who served in World War Two.
However, the storytelling is significantly lethargic, slow and absent of real action sequences or engaging moments. Although, Onjali successfully and realistically narrates children’s diverse perspectives and school life. The storyline is sluggish and needlessly lengthy with limited surprises. I can definitely see the target age-range struggle to continue reading, especially in the earlier chapters.
Was a big fan of “the boy at the back of the class” and “the start outside my window” storytelling. However, I’ve been disappointed with “the night bus hero” and now this recent novel.
Leo has always wondered where his name comes from. Growing up in the small village of Whot, there isn’t much help for Leo to find out. However, on a school trip to a cathedral Leo uncovers his name emblazoned on the list of World War Two heroes. With his interest piqued, Leo begins a long journey to uncover his own history.
***************************🪦*****************************
Onjali’s novels seem to have similar themes in regards to a mostly introverted protagonist who is bullied and goes on a mission with friends to highlight a certain cause.
It would have been good to see some surprising or imaginative scenes in the book that would have maintained the readers engagement. For example, whilst in the museum Leo finds a door that takes him back in time where he actually meets the soldier Leo on the battlefield.
Even though the story is suppose to highlight racism. I felt that Leo’s struggle to prove that he had a world war “hero” for Britain enforces the good immigrant notion placed on ethnic children. It would have been better had Leo’s ancestor been a army hero or inventor in Indonesia who’s achievements were ignored.
I found Toby and Catherine’s bullying to be repetitive, unexplained and unresolved. I also found it unusual that Leo never talked back to Toby. It would have great to actually see why they had such animosity to Leo and Sangeeta. For example, their parents had told them how immigrants were taking their jobs. However, after seeing how ethnic soldiers helped in the war, they change their minds.
Although, I found the displays becoming vandalised to be a interesting turn of events. There wasn’t any punishment given to Catherine after confessing. Also, the fact that they didn’t win the “real kidz rule show” competition in the end was underwhelming. This was especially the case as it was constantly brought up through the entire story.
I liked the plan carried out by Leo, Saengeeta and Olivia to find the documents in the museum. However, it quickly became short-lived and uninteresting when they were easily caught.
I felt that the museum staff calling all their parents and Mr.Scott sounded overwhelming for Leo only boarding the simulator when it was closed. I really would have like to see a chase scene in the museum with Leo and his friends and the museum staff. It would also have been great if Leo had added names to the wall to include forgotten heroes he felt had been censored.
Although, Onjali does highlight the racism and prejudice faced by ethnic soldiers during World War Two in her notes in the end. It would have been better had this been incorporated in the story. For example, Leo, Sangeets and Olivia decide to incorporate the racism faced by coloured soldiers during the assembly finale despite their teacher disapproving.
The actual Leo’s story in the end is brief and not very detailed. It would have really been great if Leo was related to his hero and ends up being gifted with his medals in the finale. It would also have been nice if Leo found his diary entry where he discussed being left out because of his race, culture etc.
Overall, “the lion above the door” is a factually accurate novel detailing the importance of forgotten soldiers and their impact. It is very clear that Onjali put a lot of time, effort and work into researching historic records of World War Two for this novel. It can definitely be utilised in schools to educate students on the diverse soldiers who served in World War Two.
However, the storytelling is significantly lethargic, slow and absent of real action sequences or engaging moments. Although, Onjali successfully and realistically narrates children’s diverse perspectives and school life. The storyline is sluggish and needlessly lengthy with limited surprises. I can definitely see the target age-range struggle to continue reading, especially in the earlier chapters.
Was a big fan of “the boy at the back of the class” and “the start outside my window” storytelling. However, I’ve been disappointed with “the night bus hero” and now this recent novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2022
Every year for my birthday, I throw a few books I want to read into a shopping cart and say Happy Birthday to myself. One of the books I chose for my last birthday was The Lion About the Door. It's a contemporary WWII story by Onjali Q. Raúf, who have become a real favorite author of mine.
Leo Kai Lim and his best friend Sangeeta Singh are both looking forward to their class trip to the RAF Museum and Rochester Cathedral (in Kent). They've been studying WWII in school and even though the two friends know that they are probably the only ones in their class who don't have a personal connection to anyone who fought in WWII, they are excited to see the planes on display. Leo's parents are from Singapore, and Sangreta is Indian descent.
Leo and Sangeeta are the only two kids in their school who look like them and of course, there is a bully named Toby who never tires of going after Leo. He's kind of an Eddie Haskell character in that he acts sweet and innocent in front of teachers and parents, but all that changes in the school yard and sometimes in class. He makes fun of the Singaporean food Leo brings for lunch, pushes and shoves him and the morning of the school trip, Toby hits Leo hard several times with a tennis ball. As a bruise developed on his leg, Leo thinks about the bruise inside him that never seem to heal, getting hit over and over. Leo is convinced his inner bruise will only heal if "something big and unexpected and brilliant happened." But the chances of that happening were zero as far as he was concerned, after all, he and Sangeeta "were too different for brilliant things to ever happen to us. And the bruise knew it." (pg27)
But imagine the surprise Leo gets when he sees the name Leo Kai Lim DFC and a golden lion above it carved into the marble with other names of other soldiers who were WWII heroes. Stunned by this discovery, Leo promises to find out all he can about this soldier.
Back at school, Leo's teacher Mr. Scott announces that for Remembrance Day, their class has been selected to take part in TV's Real Kidz Rule competition, a program everyone loves. For Leo, it becomes the perfect opportunity to research all he can about Leo Kai Lim DFC and keep his promise. Unfortunately, finding information about this hero pilot of WWII turns out to be quite difficult. Sangeeta is also excited about the competition since it will give her an opportunity to research Indians who participated in the war for the British named Singh, as well as the contributions of Indian women. Could good things be coming Leo's way finally? Will his bruice have a chance to heal? Or is Leo headed for a big disappointment?
I really enjoyed reading The Lion Above the Door and found myself reluctant to put it down when I had to do other things. Leo's first-person narration is appealing and so endearing in its innocent truthfulness, even as Raúf threw themes of family and family history, cultural underrepresentation, contemporary and historical racism, perseverance, courage, and teamwork his way, but all with a sensitive hand and a combination of seriousness and humor.
And because this is a Onjali Q. Raúf novel, there is one surprising turn of events when Olivia Morris, the coolest most popular girl in class offers to help Leo and one very zany episode when Leo and Sangeeta break into the RAF museum.
I did like that Raúf allowed her characters to be flawed. For example, Leo had trouble with his dad's never standing up for himself or Leo until he learns why, and Mr. Scott is not always the most culturally sensitive person but he does learn to be more aware of it thanks to Leo and his project.
Back matter in this book includes information on racism and prejudice, now and during WWII, as well as the real forgotten heroes WWII included in this book.
The Lion Above the Door is one of my better birthday books and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in WWIIs ignored heroes, or for anyone concerned about cultural underrepresentation. Both Leo Kai Lims are heroes in my book.
Leo Kai Lim and his best friend Sangeeta Singh are both looking forward to their class trip to the RAF Museum and Rochester Cathedral (in Kent). They've been studying WWII in school and even though the two friends know that they are probably the only ones in their class who don't have a personal connection to anyone who fought in WWII, they are excited to see the planes on display. Leo's parents are from Singapore, and Sangreta is Indian descent.
Leo and Sangeeta are the only two kids in their school who look like them and of course, there is a bully named Toby who never tires of going after Leo. He's kind of an Eddie Haskell character in that he acts sweet and innocent in front of teachers and parents, but all that changes in the school yard and sometimes in class. He makes fun of the Singaporean food Leo brings for lunch, pushes and shoves him and the morning of the school trip, Toby hits Leo hard several times with a tennis ball. As a bruise developed on his leg, Leo thinks about the bruise inside him that never seem to heal, getting hit over and over. Leo is convinced his inner bruise will only heal if "something big and unexpected and brilliant happened." But the chances of that happening were zero as far as he was concerned, after all, he and Sangeeta "were too different for brilliant things to ever happen to us. And the bruise knew it." (pg27)
But imagine the surprise Leo gets when he sees the name Leo Kai Lim DFC and a golden lion above it carved into the marble with other names of other soldiers who were WWII heroes. Stunned by this discovery, Leo promises to find out all he can about this soldier.
Back at school, Leo's teacher Mr. Scott announces that for Remembrance Day, their class has been selected to take part in TV's Real Kidz Rule competition, a program everyone loves. For Leo, it becomes the perfect opportunity to research all he can about Leo Kai Lim DFC and keep his promise. Unfortunately, finding information about this hero pilot of WWII turns out to be quite difficult. Sangeeta is also excited about the competition since it will give her an opportunity to research Indians who participated in the war for the British named Singh, as well as the contributions of Indian women. Could good things be coming Leo's way finally? Will his bruice have a chance to heal? Or is Leo headed for a big disappointment?
I really enjoyed reading The Lion Above the Door and found myself reluctant to put it down when I had to do other things. Leo's first-person narration is appealing and so endearing in its innocent truthfulness, even as Raúf threw themes of family and family history, cultural underrepresentation, contemporary and historical racism, perseverance, courage, and teamwork his way, but all with a sensitive hand and a combination of seriousness and humor.
And because this is a Onjali Q. Raúf novel, there is one surprising turn of events when Olivia Morris, the coolest most popular girl in class offers to help Leo and one very zany episode when Leo and Sangeeta break into the RAF museum.
I did like that Raúf allowed her characters to be flawed. For example, Leo had trouble with his dad's never standing up for himself or Leo until he learns why, and Mr. Scott is not always the most culturally sensitive person but he does learn to be more aware of it thanks to Leo and his project.
Back matter in this book includes information on racism and prejudice, now and during WWII, as well as the real forgotten heroes WWII included in this book.
The Lion Above the Door is one of my better birthday books and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in WWIIs ignored heroes, or for anyone concerned about cultural underrepresentation. Both Leo Kai Lims are heroes in my book.
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