Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion
by Abiola Bello, illustrated by Emma McCann
Interest age: 6+
Reading age: 6+
Published by Simon & Schuster Children's Books
About this book
Twins Misha and Ziggy have secret superpowers! Misha can talk to animals and Ziggy can shapeshift into them.
When their dad, a wildlife TV presenter, takes them to Ethiopia with him, they’re so excited. Maybe they’ll see a black lion! But when they discover poachers are after the lion, suddenly the twins’ powers put them in great danger. Can they keep the animals – and themselves – safe?
Almost every child has wanted to talk to animals or become one at some point, so the very concept of this series is extremely appealing. The twins use their powers to help the animals, of course, and there’s real jeopardy for Ziggy while in animal form, which adds to the tension.
Emma McCann’s fantastic illustrations give the book an accessible, friendly feel, and an added bonus is the inclusion of some pages of facts at the back about black lions and about Ethiopia.
Dad is a great role model – hard-working and caring – and it’s lovely to see a contemporary single-dad Black family represented. Perfect for animal lovers and fans of magical powers.
More books like this
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Yomi and the Fury of Ninki Nanka
by Davina Tijani, illustrated by Adam Douglas-Bagley
5 to 9 years
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Secret Beast Club: The Unicorns of Silver Street
by Robin Birch, illustrated by Jobe Anderson
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Wild Magic: Journey of the Lost Elephant
by Abiola Bello, illustrated by Emma McCann
5 to 9 years
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The Super Sunny Murder Club
Various authors, illustrated by Harry Woodgate, edited by Serena Patel and Robin Stevens
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