This book is a depressing punch in the face. The cover and the first part of the book make you think this is about two joyous, happy children. Until one of the children gets sick. This book is about a younger brother watching his older brother go through medical treatments, most likely cancer treatment. The younger brother believes they are lions, not humans. and that the brother needs to get his roar back. This book does not end on a happy note. It is up in the air and can be read as if the brother passes away or as if the story isn’t finished. Either way, it’s not a fun read. I do understand that there needs to be more books about life and death and the bad things that take place. I just wish we had known from the cover or the title. This book is well done and thoughtful, but it’s not a joy to read and I would never read this again.

A lovely story with illustrations that truly brought the whole thing together. I know so many young readers will find something special in this wee little book.

"My brother has almost no fur left. He looks like Grandpa."

These two brothers are as close as can be, so it's especially difficult when one of the boys becomes seriously ill. Through all the sadness of separation, the siblings maintain their closeness, and the hopes that someday they will again be lions. With vivid, dynamic artwork by the author.

This book contains difficult subject matter, though it's an issue that some children will have to deal with.
A poignant, deeply moving read.

I Love the concept of this book. Showing how siblings, especially young ones deal with sickness and hospitalization of a sibling is something we don't see enough. The fact that this book uses play and imagination as part of how kids deal is amazing. As adults we often underestimate the power of play in healing.
That being said the artwork is a style that may detract from the message. I enjoyed it but was left wanting just a bit more.

Two brothers with very creative imaginations are forced to change up their play when the big brother is diagnosed with a serious illness and is hospitalized. Brotherly love and play are the best medicine in this sweet picture book.