About This Book
Reach for this book when your child expresses frustration about being labeled or misunderstood because they do not fit a specific stereotype. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels like an outsider because their name, appearance, or interests do not match what others expect of them. The story follows a majestic lion with an unusual name who discovers that even in a world of expectations, true friends will see you for who you really are. Through Bernard Waber's trademark humor and gentle storytelling, the book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the pressure of public perception. While Shirley is a lion, her struggle with her 'un-lion-like' name and the confusion it causes at the zoo is deeply relatable for children navigating social groups. This 40-page story is perfect for elementary-aged children who are beginning to form their own sense of self separate from their peers.
