Author(s): Rand Burkert

Kids' Classics (fairy tales, poetry etc)

From the illustrator of the classic edition of Snow-White and the Seven Dwarfs

On a ridge above the Kalihari,

Lion naps, until Mouse bumbles into him,

willy-nilly, startling him awake.

After a show of teeth, Lion is softened

by Mouse's pledge of loyalty

and sets him free.

When a cold moon brings a humbling lesson,

Lion comes to recognize

Mouse's keen skill, and deeper kindness.

Mouse and Lion, Aesop's fabled duo,

renew their ancient bond

in this warm retelling by Rand Burkert,

illuminated by the authentic natural detail

of Nancy Ekholm Burkert's art.