From atop Pride Rock, the wise baboon, Rafiki, lifts a lion cub high above his head. Below, a crowd of animals bows to King Mufasa and Queen Sarabi's newborn son...

Young Simba is destined to become the next lion Kking, but when his father dies suddenly, Simba is forced to flee home. The kingdom falls into the hands of his evil uncle, Scar, and Scar's hyena henchmen. Under Scar's selfish rule, nature's delicate harmony is thrown out of balance, and it's up to Simba -- now fully grown -- to retun home and set things right again.

All the delightful characters from Disney's animated film are here, including Simba's sweetheart, Nala , and the comic duo of Pumbaa and Timon. This elegant edition with dramatic illustrations that evoke the diverse landscapes of Africa -- is a heartwarming coming-of-age story.