Caretakers
The Lion Cub’s Secret by Lauren St John is a fabulous contemporary children’s novel that is perfect for ages eight years and over. It is the second book in The White Giraffe series and can be read as a stand-alone. However, I recommend reading book one first as this book continues on where the previous book ended.
Once more we join eleven-year-old Martine, her friend Ben and her grandmother on Sawubona game reserve in South Africa. All are caretakers and guardians of the animals. “If we don’t fight for them, who will?” As the book progresses, we see how important it is, to look after our animals and planet for their future and for our future generations.
The focus of the novel are lions. We ‘meet’ the literary lion, Aslan, and also stolen and ill-treated cubs and lions. Their heritage and breeding shines through as characteristics from ancestors have passed down the lines.
Life gives us scars. Scars show where we have been. There reveal our battles and show that we have survived. “Even with all his scars he was… perfect.” Our scars reveal our character.
Martine is connected with the ancients. “When Martine heard the lion’s command, she spun round… she felt as if he’d spoken to her heart.” Her heart ‘hears’ even if her eyes do not see. When Martine speaks, she can be trusted even though she is young.
Education is important. Ironically it is the children who recognize the importance of preserving the planet and animals for future generations.
Even if your life is on a bad path, “it’s never too late to do the right thing… Whatever you’ve done in the past, you can choose to be different now.” Our futures still need to be written.
Lauren St John adds humor to her story, with her road signs. “Warthogs and children have right of way… Save dung beetles! Don’t drive over elephant poo!… Please check under your vehicle for penguins.”
Africa springs to life under the author’s descriptive pen.
Whatever your age, The Lion Cub’s Secret is a perfect read. We all need to look after others and our planet. The importance can be summed up in the “motto at Sawubona… No animal left behind.”
I received a free copy. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
JULIA WILSON