Roar Like a Lion

Carlie Sorosiak has written a fun and quirky guide to well being and life in general. Uniquely, Roar Like a Lion uses the animal kingdom to draw parallels between the difficulties that we face as humans and those presented to our close relatives in the animal world. Using charming, pastel-coloured illustrations and bite-sized information, this is a book to get lost in.

Cleverly drawing on the different qualities, skills and personalities of various species of animals, Roar Like a Lion demonstrates how we can learn from nature and overcome our problems, fears and doubts. Aimed at children, this approach enables important messages to be conveyed in a friendly, interesting and enjoyable format. There is an informal, chatty tone to the author's voice and this allows the reader to view the book as a friend.

I really liked the depth of fascinating facts (who know that otters wrap their babies in seaweed to stop them floating away!) and the way in which we are gently introduced to the difficulties that we all have to face; this is then reflected with reference to animal behaviours and coping strategies. By using examples such as standing in front of the class to give a presentation, walking in to a room of strangers or even doing a charity run, everyone will find something that they relate to which makes the whole book accessible and approachable.

It is a book that roars the message 'anything is possible'; a kind book full of encouragement to help children and teens through the difficulties of growing up.

160 pages / Reviewed by Jo Clarke, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+