Touching story, appreciated by adults and children alike
Disadvantages:
Short length of the story .
Recommend to potential buyers:
yes
Full review
Author: Michael Morpurgo, who once held the role Child Laureate was born in 1943, and grew up in wartime London. He attended schools in London, Sussex and Canterbury, one of which was the inspiration for the school about which he wrote in The Butterfly Lion.
The Butterfly Lion: This book was wriiten for children in 1996. Morpurgo mentions a number of events which inspired the writing of a story; his memories as a boy who attempted to run away from school; a book about a pride of white liaos and a true story about a soldier of the first world war who rescued circus animals in France from death.
Plot: Bertie is a young boy who discovers a white lion cub in Africa. Bertie is lonely, and the cub becomes his companion, the two playing together, and as their friendship grows, they become inseparable. However, Bertie is devastated when he is sent away to boarding school, and his parents sell the cub to a circus owner. As Bertie grows up into a young man, he vows to find his closest friend again, and the search for the lion begins.
Thoughts: This may be a child's book but the magical gentle storytelling of Morpurgo makes it a gripping story for all, especially those who enjoy tales of wildlife, and have a love for animals. The reader vividly sees Bertie grow from a lonely boy to a soldier in the first world war, and it is the tale of two friends separated, yet pining for one another. It is a touching story, and one I enjoy. Both parents and children will be able to appreciate the emotions shown in the book; from despair to happinness, and empathise with the characters as they face a rollercoaster of emotions. This must be my favourite children's book, and brings to life the child within us all.
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How does it compare to similar audio books?
Not applicable
How does it compare to audio works by the same author?
Very good
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