Honey… Honey… Lion!

AUTHOR: Jan Brett
ILLUSTRATOR: Jan Brett

From the Publisher:

The African plains provide a stunning environment for Jan Brett’s latest animal adventure. For as long as anyone can remember, the honeyguide bird and the African honey badger have been partners when it comes to honey:Honeyguide finds the honeycomb, Badger breaks it open, and they share the sweetness inside.

But this day, Badger keeps all the honey for himself. Foolish Badger!

In no time, Honeyguide leads Badger on a fast chase. Badger thinks it’s for honey; but Honeyguide has a surprise waiting for her greedy friend.

As they swim across a pond, push through a thicket of reeds, leap over a huge anthill, a menagerie of exotic animals passes the news along in a kind of animal Bush Telegraph. Finally Badger faces a lift-the-flap page, revealing the twist that teaches Badger a lesson. Can you guess who’s under that flap?

Honey . . . Honey . . . Lion! will surely become a family favorite for readers of all ages.

Leah’s Thoughts:

This one is packed with adventure and African wildlife, and the storytelling rhythm makes it a fun read-aloud. My boys especially love the clever twist at the end. In true Jan Brett style, the side illustrations add lots of extra detail — perfect for kids who like to spot what’s coming next.