47 pages 1 hour read

Michael Morpurgo

The Butterfly Lion

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Butterfly Lion by Michael Morpurgo follows a boy named Michael who runs away from boarding school and meets Millie Andrews, who tells him the story of Bertie, a boy who rescues a white lion in South Africa. The lion is sold to a circus when Bertie is sent to school in England. The novel explores their reunion, the sacrifices made during WWI, and the lion's memorial on a hillside. Sensitive topics include war and death.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Michael Morpurgo's The Butterfly Lion has garnered praise for its evocative storytelling and emotional depth, captivating both young and adult readers. Critics commend its vivid imagery and poignant themes of friendship and loyalty. However, some note that its simple narrative may not appeal to those seeking complex plots. The book remains a beloved choice for its heartwarming tale and beautiful prose.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Butterfly Lion?

A reader who would enjoy The Butterfly Lion by Michael Morpurgo likely appreciates heartwarming, nostalgic tales of friendship and adventure. Fans of books like The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett or Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, which combine emotional depth with a sense of wonder, will find this story engaging.

RecommendedReading Age

8-12years

Book Details

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Determination / Perseverance

Emotions/Behavior: Loneliness

Emotions/Behavior: Love

Genre

Children's Literature

Education

Historical Fiction

Topics

Education

Animals

History: World