Children’s author and environmental advocate Richard Faith explored the importance of individuality, resilience and self-confidence in his latest book, The Lion That Meowed, a whimsical story encouraging young readers to embrace what makes them different rather than trying to fit in.
Released Sept. 2, 2026, through Jongleur Books, the illustrated children’s book followed Leviathan, an unusually large lion cub seemingly destined to become King of the Jungle. However, after a hyena attack left him with a throat injury, an elderly turtle named Doc saved his life but delivered unexpected news: Leviathan would never roar like other lions. Instead, he would meow like a kitten.
As Leviathan grew into the largest lion in the African wilderness, his unusual voice made him the target of ridicule. Embarrassed and hurt by the reactions of others, he withdrew from the kingdom he was born to lead.
His isolation was interrupted when hunters entered his territory and threatened his subjects. Faced with a decision, Leviathan had to determine whether he would continue hiding because he was different or find the courage to protect those who depended on him.
Through the character’s journey, Faith delivered a message about self-worth, leadership and personal responsibility. The story’s central lesson emphasized that while people cannot always control what happens to them, they can control how they respond.
For Faith, those themes reflected personal experiences that shaped his outlook on life. A Boston native and former U.S. Marine, he experienced adversity as a teenager when his brother, Michael Faith, was stabbed at South Boston High School in December 1974, during the turbulent period of school desegregation in the city.
That experience helped establish his belief in standing up for what is right, even when circumstances are difficult. He has carried that philosophy into his children’s storytelling, using imaginative characters and engaging narratives to encourage courage, kindness and moral clarity.
Featuring vibrant illustrations by Todd Hobin, The Lion That Meowed is the latest installment in Faith’s Old Doc Turtle series, which combines entertaining storytelling with lessons about resilience and environmental awareness.
Faith also connected his writing to his broader environmental advocacy, explaining that his goal across his creative and environmental initiatives was to encourage people to think, care and become part of the solution.
With its back-to-school release, the book offered parents and educators an opportunity to discuss bullying, peer pressure, acceptance and confidence as children navigated new classrooms and friendships.
The Lion That Meowed (ISBN: 979-8190777338) was published by Jongleur Books and became available Sept. 2, 2026.
The book is available through Amazon.