‘Lafcadio, the Lion Who Shot Back’ Turns 50

By Maryann Yin 

Lafcadio_50th_Anniversary

It has been 50 years since Shel Silverstein’s picture book Lafcadio, the Lion Who Shot Back was first published.

The prolific children’s books creator served as the narrator of this story under the alias Uncle ShelbyView this video to see an animated adaptation of this story.

Below, we’ve rounded up a few ways to commemorate this special anniversary. How will you be celebrating?

1. Plan a poetry slam. Throughout his career, Silverstein wrote and illustrated several volumes of children’s poetry.

2. Host an art-making party. Silverstein specialized in drawing cartoons; have a “Lafcadio the Lion” drawing contest, play games, and dive into puzzle challenges.

3. Cook up a batch of homemade marshmallows. Throughout the story, Lafcadio would display a great passion for marshmallows. Follow this link for a Food Network recipe.