Suitabook

Renato and the lion

Barbara DiLorenzo

Reading: Before reading, mention that war leads Renato’s family to leave home, then let the child set the pace for talking about that change. Afterwards, revisit what the lion means to Renato.
Themes: Theme in context: Renato loves the stone lion in his piazza and feels safe with it. When his family must leave Florence, he wonders who will keep him safe. The lion gives the story a magical way to connect Renato’s sense of safety with a familiar place and object.
Leaving home because of war: Renato’s father tells him the family must leave their home in Florence because their country is at war and they will be safer in America. The move is presented as a response to danger, while Renato’s attention remains on the lion he may leave behind.
Worth knowing: War and a family’s forced move are central to the setup. Renato’s worry about leaving the lion may also bring up feelings about separation from familiar places or treasured objects.