Brave Like a Lion!
How a Puppeteer Found Her Voice
Megan Piphus author Niña Mata illustrator
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Penguin Putnam Inc
Published:5th May '26
Should be back in stock very soon

At home, May loves to play pretend with her puppets, leading them fearlessly on all sorts of adventures. But at school, May is shy. When a class project offers the perfect chance for May to speak up, she has a unique idea for how to use her voice. With a little practice, a lot of imagination, and the help of a special friend, May is ready to let out her inner lioness! Based on the real-life story of Emmy-winning author Megan Piphus, the first full-time Black woman puppeteer on Sesame Street, and lovingly illustrated by award-winning artist Niña Mata, this tale of authentic self-expression will inspire young readers to embrace their own unique voices. Back matter features illustrated step-by-step instructions to make a puppet!
“An encouraging story of a child finding ventriloquism and using it as a tool to express herself [with] illustrations that are nothing short of adorable…. Fit for a storytime with preschool-aged kiddos who are learning how to express themselves and use their voices.”—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
“A peppy creativity-oriented story…[with] jewel-toned mixed media images that hum with excitement. It’s a reassuring peek at one student navigating timidity by embracing star energy.”—Publishers Weekly
"Warm and encouraging...Drawn from the author’s childhood, this uplifting story pairs beautifully with the included puppet making activity." —School Library Journal
ISBN: 9780593857595
Dimensions: 286mm x 224mm x 9mm
Weight: 425g
40 pages