The Lion Tattoo is a tale from Masnavi, one of the best-known and most influential works by the thirteenth century poet, philosopher and Sufi mystic Rumi.

The story begins with a young man who decides that he wants a lion tattoo on his shoulder. Perhaps because he wants to be big and strong - or maybe so he’s always got someone watching his back. But as the tattooist begins her work, he feels the pain of the needle and decides that his lion doesn’t need a tail...or a mane...or a stomach. But who’s ever heard of a lion like that?! Finally, the tattooist has enough of his complaints and throws him out: “Brother, you just can’t stand the pain...”

Tiny Owl’s new series celebrates picture books for older readers and the art of visual narrative.