About the Story

Little Leo the Lemon invites readers into a sun-soaked orchard on the Mediterranean coast, where a small lemon named Leo feels out of place among the brighter, bolder lemons around him. Unsure of his purpose and weighed down by self-doubt, Leo begins a quiet journey toward rediscovering joy. Along the way, a gentle bee offers a few simple but powerful truths about choosing hope over fear. As Leo reflects on the unfolding love story between a nearby boy and girl, he starts to see that change, growth, and sweetness often come from within. Blending beautiful illustration with meaningful metaphor, this story encourages young readers—and the adults who love them—to recognize the strength of perspective and the quiet power of inner transformation. A celebration of emotional growth, the book offers a gentle reminder that faith, love, and optimism can guide us through even the most uncertain seasons of life.

About Jean Monti

Jean Monti is an accomplished artist and illustrator whose work is known for capturing the tenderness of family bonds and childhood moments. A graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Illustration, Jean has spent decades refining her craft, drawing inspiration from the people and stories that surround her. Her paintings and commissioned portraits can be found in homes across the country, each one echoing her love for storytelling through imagery. Little Leo the Lemon represents a heartfelt new chapter in Jean’s creative path—one that connects her personal experiences with her lifelong artistic passion. Inspired by her family’s recent journey through uncertainty and healing, the book is a tribute to the strength found in love, hope, and new beginnings. With this debut, Jean brings a deeply personal story to life, inviting readers to reflect on how sweetness can emerge, even from the most sour of times.