Book Review: The Mountain Lion of Crab Lake (Crab Lake Tales)

Written by David Mulford

Review by Deanie Humphrys-Dunne

I’ve read other books by David Mulford in his Crab Lake Tales series and the Mountain Lion of Crab Lake did not disappoint. In this delightful tale, the adorable Pudgey Bear was petrified when he heard a huge animal came to Crab Lake. It was a mountain lion. Even its huge pawprints terrified the creatures of the area. Poor Pudge envisioned many of his friends becoming a delectable meal for Mr. Mountain Lion. Some of the animals were not quite as frightened as little Pudgey. Peter Porcupine figured his sharp needles would defend him, while the majestic deer, Thunder and Lightning, thought they could outrun Mr. Mountain Lion.

What could they do about this new visitor? Where did he come from? Jeannie, who loved the animals dearly, decided to visit the wisest member of Crab Lake, Belknap Beaver. Belknap, dressed in a bright scarf and wearing his wire-rimmed glasses, decided they must invite Mr. Mountain Lion to a meeting. The animals prepared their list of questions to ask. They wanted to know more about his life and how long he planned to stay, among other things.

Several of the animals went with Jeannie to meet the big cat. Naturally, they were still apprehensive, but they thought it was a necessary first step.

Mr. Mountain Lion arrived for the meeting. He explained that he lived very far away and was ordered to leave his family. He didn’t fit in. Once the residents of Crab Lake found out the reason why Mr. Mountain Lion was exiled, they were thrilled and gave him a special nickname.

The Mountain Lion of Crab Lake is enchanting, as are the illustrations by Christine Cathers Donohue. I give it my highest recommendation.

Series: Crab Lake Tales (Book 3)
Hardcover: 64 pages
Publisher: Brown Books Publishing Group (April 7, 2020)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1612544355
ISBN-13: 978-1612544359
Grade Level: 1 – 2

REVIEWER: Deanie Humphrys-Dunne is an award-winning children’s book author with six books published at this time: My Life at Sweetbrier, Charlie the Horse, Charlene the Star, Charlene the Star and Hattie’s Heroes, Charlene the Star and Bentley Bulldog and A Tractor Named Wilbur. Deanie’s books offer powerful life lessons for children, such as setting goals, perseverance, sharing, and friendship. Her sister, Holly Humphrys-Bajaj, beautifully illustrates all of Deanie’s fictional books and designs the covers. The fictional stories are told by the memorable animal characters, who keep readers entertained with their endearing personalities. The animals find creative ways to help their friends. Her books won several awards including the Mom’s Choice Gold Medal and Reader’s Favorites Silver medal. All books are available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. You may also order signed copies from Deanie through her website. www.childrensbookswithlifelessons.com/

SEARCHING FOR BOOK REVIEWERS:
Do you love to read books about horses and their lives with humans? Both nonfiction or fiction? Do you like to tell your friends, family, and social media buddies about what you’re reading? Arabian Horse Travel is looking for writers — budding and otherwise — who would like to try their hand at reviewing the many horse books that are shared with me by authors and publishing companies. In exchange, you’ll get a published writing sample of your work to use as you choose (e.g., as a resume builder, for social media influence) posted on this site, on AHT social media, and in the AHT newsletter. Reach out to me, Janet, on the Contact page. Thanks.