A review by marywahlmeierbracciano
When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller

emotional mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

When You Trap a Tiger is a lovely book that focuses on familial bonds and is guided by Korean folklore.  The main character, Lily, has just moved to a new place, and making friends isn’t easy for her.  Her grandmother is experiencing illness and memory loss, her sister is struggling with grief for their father (whom Lily doesn’t remember), and her mom is stressed and preoccupied.  Lily processes her complicated feelings through interactions with a giant, magical tiger that appears only to her.  Amidst beautiful symbolism, she learns that stories are powerful, and change is inevitable.  This book shines like the stars in the sky.
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