Arlo the Lion Who Couldn't Sleep

By Catherine Rayner

A sleepless lion seeks rest amidst noisy surroundings. Can an owl's wisdom bring peace?

4.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 436 ratings

32 pages· 481 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

$18.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Arlo, a weary lion, struggles to find sleep as prickly grass, noisy trees, and a restless family keep him awake. Desperate for rest, he turns to a wise owl with soothing tricks. Will Arlo finally find the peace he craves? This gentle tale, filled with humor and mindfulness, invites young readers into a calming bedtime journey.

From the publisher

A breathtakingly beautiful book for bedtime

Arlo is a very tired lion, and he’s tried everything to get to sleep. But the grass is too prickly, the trees are too noisy, and his family wriggles awfully too much. Goodness! How is an exhausted lion ever to get a wink of shut-eye? Luckily, owl has a few tricks up her sleeve and Arlo couldn’t be happier to give them a whirl.

Perfect for reluctant or troubled sleepers, author-illustrator Catherine Rayner’s gorgeous illustrations capture a gentle and humorous bedtime story that has a calming, meditative message of mindfulness and centeredness.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Words: 481
Reading age: 2–6
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD550L

Themes & topics

Books about mindfulness Books about sleep Books about bedtime and dreams Books about big cats (lions, tigers, leopard, etc.)Books about friendship

What readers & critics say

Reviews

4.8

out of 7

4.3

“The illustrations are awesome, but I didn't think there was much to the story. It could be helpful to kids struggling to fall asleep.”

The Goodfather

Trusted reviewer

5.0

“The illustrations are so truly stunning and expressive—it's a work of art! The story was a bit on the slim side (more of a tool for encouraging mindfulness and helping children fall asleep) but it was a pleasant and soothing read and executes its intention well.”

Marmee

Trusted reviewer

5.0

“Amazing illustrations!”

Mom of Boys

Trusted reviewer

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