About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a deep sense of unfairness, the sting of exclusion, or the complicated realization that kindness is not always met with kindness. This powerful Nigerian fable, co-authored by the legendary Chinua Achebe, explores a time when the leopard was a gentle leader without claws or sharp teeth. When his fellow animals betray him during a crisis, the leopard undergoes a painful transformation to regain his dignity and power. It is a sophisticated story about the loss of innocence and the heavy cost of self-protection. While the vibrant illustrations and animal characters appeal to children ages 6 to 10, the themes of leadership and justice are profound. Parents will appreciate how this tale moves beyond simple 'happily ever after' tropes to provide a realistic look at how conflict can change a person's character. It serves as an excellent bridge for discussing how to handle disappointment and the importance of standing by your friends when they are vulnerable.
