Lion and Blue [B1778]

1974 HCDJ 4th printing, with nice clean text and wear to the dust jacket (see photo). A lion searches for the blue Brazilian butterfly he loves and is rewarded for his faithfulness. From the Preface by Bernhard of Lippe-Biesterfeld, Prince of the Netherlands: "In this book Fleur Cowles and Robert Vavra have shown us for the second time how beautifully they can make us human beings feel the strange and haunting impact that the artistic expression of a genuine love of nature has upon us. Knowing that a great deal of our flora and fauna is in danger of disappearing, it is with a feeling of nostalgia that one looks at these wonderful pictures and reads the sensitive text. I sincerely hope that many, many people will be moved by this poetic work of art and that the feelings this book inspires will make them value the wonders of nature that surround us."

From Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "Unlike anything I have read... I recently shared this book with someone very special to me. The illustrations are rich and beautiful. The story is ageless and exquisite. The story centers on that, despite physical distance and forms, an unlikely pairing of two beings can love each other and have the faith to allow life to unfold the way it should. Both protagonists (Lion and Blue the Brazilian Butterfly) find themselves in love, yet must first take their own individual paths to get to a point at which they can be together. It is implied that both need to grow, explore, learn on their own first in order to be the very best for each other. Individual transformation, courage, hope, and most importantly, love are explored in this haunting story that is suitable for adults as well as children."; "Spectacular art! Writing-meh."; "Remarkable unique book. I first met this book in 1975. Loved the story and paintings then and still do. An older lion who doesn't have much joy in his life meets a gorgeous, enchanting blue butterfly and they become friends. Then one day the butterfly leaves and Lion begins a search to find his beloved friend. It's the simple eloquent telling of the story and the breathtaking paintings by Fleur Cowles that touch the heart and call you to read it again. A book for all ages."