The World's Greatest Lion

Gr 1–4—A Hollywood animal trainer tells the story of Zamba, best known as one of the mascots that precede MGM films, in this gorgeously illustrated picture book. Orphaned as a cub, he is eventually sent to live at Helfer's animal ranch in California, where his gentle nature makes him ideal for movie and television projects. Zamba proves his mettle when he leads the other animals to safety from a flood. Powerful, realistic watercolor images that dominate the pages and depict Zamba's adventure-packed life are by turns exciting, adorable, and arresting. In particular, an illustration of the enormous adult Zamba peacefully lolling on the ground surrounded by young children cements Helfer's description of him as "a real people lion." Lewin's masterful use of light and dark sets the tone of the various scenes: soft, earthy tones depict Zamba's idyllic life on the ranch, while dramatic, intense blues color the sky on the night of the storm. Information on the cub's prehuman days, as he flees from another lion who kills his parents, is likely speculative, but this slight fictionalizing will readily endear him to readers. While the story is bookended by exciting moments, this lengthy narrative drags a bit in the middle; younger readers drawn in by the content and illustrations might not make it all the way through. However, Helfer's genuine affection for his animal companion is always apparent and Lewin's irresistible images make this title a worthwhile purchase.—Mahnaz Dar, formerly at Convent of the Sacred Heart, New York City