A Lion in the Meadow
By Margaret Mahy
The Story
A little boy insists there's a lion in the meadow, but his mother doesn't believe him — until the matchbox dragon she gives him to scare it away turns out to be real too.
Why It's Special
For the kid whose made-up monsters feel utterly real, this book takes their word for it.
- Big idea: Imagination isn't nonsense — it has its own truth, and its own consequences.
- Vibes: Playful, a little strange, quietly thought-provoking.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy stories that blur real and pretend
- like to insist their imaginary friends are real
- are working on being believed by grown-ups
- respond well to a story with a surprising twist
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What did the little boy's mother give him to scare away the lion?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think the little boy felt when his mother said 'Nonsense'?
- Imagination: What would you do if you found a dragon in a matchbox?
- Real-life connection: Has a grown-up ever not believed something you knew was true?
- Imagination: Do you think the lion in the meadow was real or make-believe? Why?
