When Leo Golden Mane's son is born with wings, the Emperor of the Cats declares "It's a blessing! Our son will go far!" Truer words were never spoken, as young Prince Leo finds himself far from home, when first he attempts to fly. Here, in the wintry north, Leo is taken in by King Otto the bear and his Owl companion, and given a treasure greater than any he could have imagined...

A lovely little animal story that speaks to the power of reading - the wealth to be gained from books - The Lion's Share pairs appealing illustrations with an engaging narrative. Chris Conover's style can sometimes be a little too cute for my taste, but her adorable animals are balanced out by little medieval flourishes here, and the overall effect is very appealing. The endpapers, which give a little fairy or folk-tale scene for each letter in the alphabet (with a key at the back of the book), is a welcome bonus. Try to see how many you can guess, without referring to the answers! ( )

Beautiful illustrations. ( )