Proud As A Peacock, Brave As A Lion is written by Canadian author Jane Barclay and illustrated by Renne Benoit is a heartwarming picture book about a grandfather sharing what it was like to serve in the war and the importance of Remembrance Day. The animal imagery is perfect for helping children understand some of the feelings of going to war. The young grandchild listens as his grandfather talks about how he was “proud as a peacock in his uniform, busy as a beaver on his Atlantic crossing, and brave as a lion charging into battle.”
The young boy pins the medals on his grandfather’s blazer and receives his own red poppy. A crowd gathers for the veteran’s parade for Remembrance Day and is “quiet as a mouse.” Men and women, young and old march past, the trumpet is played and wreaths are placed in remembrance of those who did not return. As his grandfather lays a wreath in memory of a lost friend, his grandson reminds him that “elephants never forget.” Grandpa responds with “then let’s be elephants.”
Beautifully illustrated with a lovely rhythmic text this book is a perfect read-aloud for children to delicately handle the themes of war and peace.