‘Each page radiates with Howley’s gentle but evocative illustrations, which are the perfect partnership to this beautiful and hopeful story.’ -Frann Preston-Gannon illustrator of I Am The Seed That Grew The Tree
‘A vibrant and hopeful hug of a book’ -Fiona Woodcock, Hiding Heidi
The story and illustrations are a perfect duet (…) Brilliantly, Howley shows young readers that courage can ebb and flow (…) Cub is a charming tale that tugs at the heartstrings. – Inis Magazine, CBI
A boy’s new toy starts to grow from a cub to a lion when he goes to live with his grandparents, reflecting the growth in his own feelings. Explores themes of courage and alternative family structures. – Charlotte Eyre, The Bookseller May Previews
Author-illustrator Jonty Howley has captured this sometimes complex mix and encapsulated it in a simply breathtaking story. With its warm and distinctive style of illustration, its straightforward yet powerful story Cub is a book for sharing, in any setting where there are young children. An important book, a gentle book, a book which leaves you feeling as though you too have just had a warm hug. – Louise Ellis-Barrett, Armadillo Postbag Picks
I loved this one so much.
First and foremost, I love how it shows a unique family dynamic. A young boy, who is sent to live with his grandparents. They are loving and welcoming, but he finds it very scary & overwhelming at first! But through the help of his stuffed animal Cub, he can now face his fears a bit more and begin to feel more brave and open to their love.
I think so many children will resonate with this one, and the big feelings the little boy has. Told in such a relatable way, with emotive illustrations, this one is sure to connect with a lot of little readers. – GoodReads