Lion's Den


Young Adult - Action
239 Pages
Reviewed on 02/15/2026
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Alija Turkovic for Readers' Favorite

Lion’s Den by Neil Citrin is about Johnny Salter, a teenage kickboxer dealing with life after a brutal attack on his family’s dojo takes his father’s life. Johnny and his older brother, Benny, are left on their own and must deal with their grief and apprehension about what comes next. After the painful loss of their dad, the brothers are placed in the care of their aunt, Jessica, who has her own plans for the family property. With help from their friends, the boys take steps to protect what their father left behind and later move in with Lee Anderson, who becomes their guardian. As time goes by and they try to adjust to their new environment, Benny decides he wants revenge for their dad's death, while Johnny struggles to follow his dad's teachings. Will the brothers find a way to stay true to themselves while everything around them keeps changing?

Lion’s Den by Neil Citrin is a YA coming-of-age story that combines action and drama. The book focuses on the boys' daily lives after their father's death instead of rushing past it. This part makes the story feel more real and pulls you in. It’s easy to picture what’s happening since the writing is clear and simple to understand. The mix of martial arts, family problems, and pressures keeps it engaging. I kept watching Johnny’s choices and how he stays calm while his brother leans toward anger. Both of their characters are well-developed and complex. The setting, with damaged cities and strict security in schools, adds another layer without taking over the story. Through Johnny and Benny's journey, the author reveals the pressure young people face when the adults who are supposed to protect them have divided loyalties, giving readers an emotional story about grief, identity, and growing up.