Lion at School and Other Stories

This collection of nine short stories by Philippa Pearce offers gentle, imaginative tales centered around animal protagonists. From the whimsical premise of a lion attending school to the more grounded, yet still adventurous, journey of a lonely horse and the suspenseful plight of a mouse, the book explores relatable emotions and situations through an animal lens. It handles themes like loneliness, courage, and belonging in an accessible way, often with a hopeful resolution. This book is particularly well-suited for children aged 4-8 who enjoy animal stories and are beginning to explore chapter books. Parents might reach for this when their child is looking for short, engaging reads that can be enjoyed in one sitting, or when discussing feelings like being new or feeling left out. The stories are generally lighthearted, with mild peril, making them a comforting read.