Father of Lions

Father of Lionsis the powerful true story of the evacuation of the Mosul Zoo, featuring Abu Laith the zookeeper, Simba the lion cub, Lula the bear, and countless others, faithfully depicted by acclaimed, award-winning journalist Louise Callaghan in her trade publishing debut.

Combining a true-to-life narrative of humanity in the wake of war with the heartstring-tugging account of rescued animals,Father of Lions will appeal to audiences of bestsellers likeThe Zookeeper's Wife and The Bookseller of Kabulas well as fans of true animal stories such asA Streetcat Named Bob,Marley and Me, andFinding Atticus.

"An unexpectedly funny and moving book. ... Through the story of a man who loves both lions and life, Louise Callaghan shows how humour and defiance can counter cruelty, and why both humans and animals crave freedom." -- Lindsey Hilsum, International Editor, Channel 4 News and author ofIn Extremis: the life of war correspondent Marie Colvin.