The Lion Above the Door
Onjali Q. Raúf
'Ever since I can remember, people have stared at me and my family. Dad tells me it's because we're 'special'. But if we're so special, how come nobody ever looks like us in the books at school? Not even the books about world wars ...' As the only Singaporean boy not just in his school, but in the tiny English he calls home too, Leo witnesses - and feels - the impacts of racism every day. But on a class trip to a nearby cathedral, Leo's attention is drawn to a marble slab high above the doors of the hall. Right there, bang in the middle of a list of WWII war heroes, Leo finds himself staring at something incredible: his own name. Desperate to know who this other Leo was, and with Sangeeta asking why women are missing from the history books too, the two friends embark on an epic search. One that will help uncover missing s/heroes from the past, who each deserve to take their rightful place in the pages of history. Touching on themes of historical racisms and eradications, The Lion Above the Door shines a light on the millions of s/heroes still missing from our history books, and the power that lies in all of us to rectify past wrongs. The first edition of this book also contains a special collection of historical photos and stories of real life forgotten heroes from World War Two.
Reviews

I really enjoyed this book because it shows the unity and love that shine through families, although, it also expresses how different they can be. I feel it really shows that some people are just lost in history and are only a name to everyone who hears about them. It shows we need to treasure our past and not let someone fade out just for such a silly reason. The amazing story line and all the incredible characters fill line, pages and eventually a whole book.
Doctor Kiki Fascination 17.12.2024

Star Reviewer

I enjoyed this book I would reread it. I love reading the author's other book. I appreciate her style of writing. I would describe it as a very heartwarming journey, a pageturner, and very entertaining.
Queen Phoenix Piccalilli 08.09.2024

Everyone should read this book!
Captain Cornetto Aardvark 01.09.2024

I can see why many people would like this book, it was good but I personally prefer fast-paced adventure books.
Chief Viktor Shortbread 15.08.2024

i love the commeration to passed soilders
Countess Gloriana Eragon 31.07.2024

So good
Commander Grip Spinner 27.07.2024

Great book about forgotten heros
Marshal Iggy Bonsai 25.07.2024

I love Onjali Q. Rauf! Her books are mind blowingly good ! Every time I read her books there physically impossible to put down ( I love them!!!!) I have read The boy at the back of the class ( Which made me cry ) This one and the night bus hero and just today I got her newest ; the star above my window and the first paragraph is AMAZING!!! I totally recommend this author especially to 8 - 12 year olds. Like if you agree!!!
Captain Gloriana Owl 24.07.2024

This book teaches us the important of diversity and to celebrate awareness. It tells us the story of a child who is trying to make sure people from other ethnic backgrounds are more represented in history. I recommend this book to people who like adventure stories.
Professor Bruno Pipistrel 24.07.2024

Star Reviewer

Made me want to read more by the same author
Nurse Beryl Lavalamp 29.01.2024

I would say this was better than all of the other books that I have read by this author and it was based in a area a I knew. I would recommend this for people who like an historical adventure in present day.
General Merlin Pipistrel 28.01.2024

This book is amazing! I love it! Onjali Q. Rauf's books are some of the best books I have ever read!! This book is about a girl and a boy who get bullied because they look different to everyone else. They are learning about World War 2 at school and found out about something they are not pleased about! I found just one problem with it, I couldn't put it down! It left me longing for more!!
Viscountess Cupcake Submarine 14.01.2024

Very good , love it ! I love it because it was about a school trip and i love going on school trips
Chief Snoopy Rollercoaster 19.12.2023

i love Onjali Q. Rauf
Anonymous 13.12.2023

It was cool
Doctor Sapphire Desperado 16.09.2023

Interesting with bold messages of equality and kindness.
Captain Sapphire Snivel 10.09.2023

The author is an excellent writer; this book is mysterious and a really good read. I’d recommend it to children who are about 10 years old!
Corporal Catapult Pinkerton 05.09.2023

Star Reviewer

It was very exciting and taught me a lot about what Africa and Asia did to help during the second world war.
Earl Hercules Casserole 04.09.2023

It was amazing
Baroness Bernice Archway 03.09.2023

It’s very good
Commander Dragon Casserole 30.08.2023