Ellen's Lion

By Crockett Johnson

Originally published in 1959 and out of print for two decades, this collection of very short stories chronicles Ellen’s relationship– complete with two-way conversations–with her floppy stuffed lion. Ellen’s temperament is a bit like Christopher Robin’s (though her appearance is a clone of Harold, from Harold and the Purple Crayon fame), but her lion is a no-nonsense, tougher-minded Pooh, with the voice of reason and reality to counter Ellen’s high-flying imagination. The stories range from fear of the dark and being sad to playing doctor, being a fairy princess, and dealing with a new toy that almost replaces lion.
Parents will find the subtly droll stories as entertaining as children, and a child who reads chapter books will find especially rewarding.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Random House Publishing Group
• Release date: Jul 27, 2011
• ISBN: 9780375983726

Crockett Johnson

Crockett Johnson (1906–1975) was the writer and illustrator of over twenty books for children, including the beloved classic Harold and the Purple Crayon, six subsequent adventures starring Harold, and The Carrot Seed, written by his wife, Ruth Krauss. He was also the creator of the groundbreaking Barnaby, one of the most influential and ingenious comic strips of the twentieth century.

Reviews for Ellen's Lion

[leafinglight · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

PreK-Grade 4. Spunky Ellen and her pragmatic stuffed pet lion are the original Calvin and Hobbes. Ellen goes on many adventures, bringing lion along for the ride. Despite his hesitation, the two visit Arabia, a pirate ship, the dentist, and more. Lion also acts as young Ellen's practical side, watching her back as she gets a nighttime drink of water and patiently listening to her. Their relationship develops through the twelve stories included in this book, which may be read aloud to young children or may act as small steps for those just learning to read. Despite its original publication date of 1959, this book is still fresh, relevant, and charming. Recommended.