Book Review: Disney Classics The Lion King: Be Prepared by Farrah Rochon

As a lifelong Disney fan, I couldn’t wait to dive into Disney Classics The Lion King: Be Prepared, and wow, it did not disappoint! Farrah Rochon brings a thrilling new twist to the iconic Lion King story, delivering all the nostalgia of the original while offering something completely fresh and exciting.

The Twisted Tales series has always been a treat for those of us who love reimagined Disney stories, and this book might just be one of my favorites. It asks a question I never thought of before: What if Nala had to team up with Scar? That premise alone had me hooked. Nala has always been a strong character, but in this version, she really shines as a brave and determined lioness. Six months after Simba’s supposed death, Nala is still clinging to a whisper of hope, and her decision to leave the pride and search for answers feels both heartbreaking and empowering.

Scar, the villain we all love to hate, is given surprising depth in this story. Rochon doesn’t change who Scar is, but she layers him with enough complexity to make his uneasy alliance with Nala feel real. Their interactions are filled with tension, and as a fan, it was both nerve-wracking and exciting to see them working together. There were so many moments where I wondered, “Is Scar really helping her? Or is he just setting a trap?” The suspense is real!

The setting is beautifully described, capturing the magic of the African savannah that made the original movie so visually stunning. The writing pulled me right back into that world, with enough fresh detail to keep it from feeling like a simple retelling. There’s a perfect balance of action and quiet moments that let us really understand the characters' thoughts and motivations.

What I loved most is how Rochon stayed true to the spirit of The Lion King while adding new layers to the story. The themes of trust, redemption, and finding strength through hardship are woven seamlessly into the plot. Nala’s journey isn’t just about finding Simba—it’s also about finding herself, which makes her story even more powerful.

If you grew up with The Lion King (or fell in love with it through your kids), this book is a must-read. It respects the original while taking bold steps into new territory. You’ll find yourself humming “Circle of Life” and “Be Prepared” as you turn the pages, eager to see how this twisted tale plays out.

For Disney fans, this is more than just a novel—it’s a chance to experience the Pride Lands in a whole new way. Farrah Rochon has crafted a story that honors the classic film while offering a fresh adventure that will keep you guessing until the end. I can’t recommend it enough!