Orphaned thirteen-year-old Lucas Dubois is nicknamed petit eclair by the bullies because he is so wimpy, but he wishes he were brave. In the World War II historical fiction novel The Lion’s Run by Sara Pennypacker (published 2026), Lucas chooses bravery even when he is scared. It begins when he saves kittens from the bullies, hiding them in an abandoned barn. He must sneak out to care for the kittens, facing the Nazi patrols as he does so. He also tests his bravery when he learns about the Resistance. What can he, a relatively young orphan boy, do to help the effort?
The novel was a quick read. There were some tough subjects addressed in the book, such as a Lebensborn, or maternity home for young girls who have become pregnant from Nazi men. It is a place where the Nazis hope to raise up a pure people. This concept is a bit much for the young reader. The writing, however, and the exciting plot elements felt appropriate for a younger reader. So although the main character is thirteen, it seems he is younger and the book reads easily, like it should be for younger readers. With the World War II setting seeming more appropriate for an older reader, I’m not sure who I’d recommend the book to.
With the help of Alice, a wealthy British girl hiding a horse in the barn, Lucas learns to accept that maybe he is brave. After all, being brave means doing things even while scared. A serious escape scene at the end of the book gives a delightful sense of peril and adventure. In the end, no one can doubt Lucas’ bravery, and this war story ends on a hopeful note.
Is it a stand-out book for the year? I’m not sure yet. I still question which audience The Lion’s Run is for.
Get The Lion’s Run from Amazon.
