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The Lion’s Whisker

Sister and Brother Take On a Challenge Together; A Circle Round Book

Contributors

By Rebecca Sheir

Illustrated by Nikita Abuya

Formats and Prices

On Sale
May 23, 2023
Page Count
44 pages
Publisher
Storey
ISBN-13
9781635865219
Age Range
5–99

Price

$9.99

Price

$12.99 CAD

Format

Format:

  1. ebook $9.99 $12.99 CAD
  2. Hardcover $14.99 $19.99 CAD

Nautilus Book Awards, Gold Winner

Filled with vibrant folk art and thoughtful lessons, this picture book rooted in Ethiopian folktales reveals the power of patience, understanding, and sibling love.

Courage, collaboration, patience, and sibling love prevail in this folktale with its roots in the Ethiopian tradition. The Lion's Whisker tells the story of Brother and Sister who are constantly arguing. When Grandmother sends them on a dangerous mission to pluck a lion's whisker for her magical potion, the siblings learn valuable lessons about the strength gained by working together, being brave, and showing patience and understanding for others. This classic folktale is brought to life for today’s kids by Rebecca Sheir—creator and host of the award-winning Circle Round storytelling podcast­—with the vibrant and modern folk art of Kenyan illustrator Nikita Abuya. Beloved for their lively storytelling and modern adaptations of values-based tales from around the world, Circle Round bring their wildly popular adaptation of Brother and Sister’s story to colorful picture-book form. Once kids and families have read The Lion's Whisker, resources in the back prompt further exploration of the tale, with conversation questions and creative storytelling prompts and activities. 

  • “This book is a beautiful and fun way to learn how to share and get along with others, especially your sibling. I remember the days when I fought constantly with my sister . . . but now we share everything, including a deep love of Circle Round!”
    Hrishikesh Hirway, musician and host of the podcast Song Exploder
  • “This age-old Ethiopian folktale gets a Circle Round refresh. Relatable and fun for young readers everywhere, this book will have families and classrooms talking, creating, and playing together. A wonderful read-aloud or read-alone for any home or classroom.”
    Mindy Thomas, host of the podcast Wow in the World

Rebecca Sheir

About the Author

Rebecca Sheir is a veteran audio storyteller and the author of the Circle Round picture book series, which she adapted from popular episodes of the award-winning podcast she created and formerly hosted. Today, she hosts and writes Lions and Legends, a hit independent storytelling podcast for kids and families. Before moving into family entertainment, Sheir spent years as a public radio reporter and host, contributing to such flagship NPR programs as Morning Edition and All Things Considered. Her books — The Great Ball Game, The Tale of the Unwelcome Guest, A Taste of Honey, and The Lion’s Whisker — bring timeless global folktales to the page. She lives in western Massachusetts with her family.

Learn more about this author

Nikita Abuya

About the Illustrator

Nikita Abuya is a digital illustrator and graphic designer from Nairobi, Kenya. Her work celebrates the current generation in pop culture and fashion, as well as aspects from her African heritage.

Learn more about this illustrator