As a follow-up to my non-fiction book on big cats last week, Leo the Snow Leopard, I wanted to review one of my favorite fictional picture books about little cats.
HEART OF A TIGER
Written by Marsha Diane Arnold, and illustrated by Jamichael Henterly
Published by Dial, 1995
Ages: 3 – 7
Availability: Out of print, but still readily available – it will be released as an e-book in a few months time!
Themes: cats, tigers, self-confidence, India, perseverance, naming ceremonies
Synopsis:
The story has a hint of LITTLE BO in it, as the premise is about Naming Day and the runt of a litter of kittens. Our protagonist is Number Four in a litter of street cats. As Naming Day approaches, he fears he will not be able to discover the name that truly fits his strong, inner convictions, rather than his ordinary, outward appearance. He undertakes a journey of courage, determination and wisdom beyond his years, to discover his name. He journeys into the Indian forest hoping to learn from “the Magnificent One”, the great Bengal tiger. Though initially rebuffed by the tiger, Number Four’s persistence and cunning prove invaluable to the great hunter and the young cat returns to the Naming Ceremony, with a fair and honest name.
Why I like this book:
I was unsurprised to read that the author had consulted with a professor of India Studies at Sonoma State University, for this book is steeped in an authentic Indian feel. The warm, watercolour illustrations evoke with ease the heavy, steamy flora and fauna of an Indian jungle. Don’t miss the hidden tigers among the illustrations. Despite the ridicule of the Bengal tigers, our little runt perseveres and proves himself strong and brave. I love stories that empower children and encourage them to be true to themselves and their uniqueness – this story of a small kitten with big dreams does just that.
Activities/Resources:
On her website, Marsha has a super list of activities for this book.
Every Friday, authors and KidLit bloggers post a favorite picture book. To see a complete listing of all the Perfect Picture Books with resources, please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s Perfect Picture Books.
In my 20's, with only my guitar and a rucksack, I wandered the continents, immersing myself in the lives of some wonderful people, projects and stories, which changed the way I view my responsibility to others and this earth. Right now I'm a European transplant in the US who writes books for children and young adults. Stories can help us not only navigate our world but can connect us to others, and allow us to inspire and help each other. I believe that equity and empathy should be at the core of our all actions, words, and stories.
I am also a school librarian and I get a kick out of book-matchmaking! And I use the pronouns she/her.
I like the cover! It reminds me a bit of the “Warrior Cats” books. 🙂
I see the resemblance.
This is a nice “don’t judge a book by its cover” book.I love picture books that build self-esteem.
I confess I would buy this one just for the cover!
I remember this book! It is a gem. My boys loved it. The text and illustrations completely pulled them in.
Wendy, love hearing how your boys enjoyed this one.
Love Marsha Diane Arnold’s stories!
Me too, Amy!
I want to look for hidden tigers!
You’ll love doing that, Julie!
This book sounds terrific, and the art sounds gorgeous! I love the cover! And of course now I’m just dying to know what name Number 4 got, so I hope my library has this book! Thanks for sharing this one, Joanna! 🙂
You’ll enjoy the ending, but I know you will squeal at the beautiful artwork and storyline, Susanna.
Yeah I am wanting to know what name he got. Guess I’ll have to check it out of the library to find out…lol. Great cover and story Joanna, thanks!
I hope your library has a copy. I think you will enjoy the asian feel to this one, Diane.
Joanna, I’m delighted that shared my beloved HEART OF A TIGER. When I visit schools, children ask what my favorite book is I’ve written. I tell them the one closest to my heart is HEART OF A TIGER. I think I wrote it to guide myself, but the book has proved a guide to many over the years. When I show the “hidden tigers” on the big screen during my presentations, the kids get so excited. Good luck everyone finding them. Check puddles and rocks. 🙂
I love this personal story about the story, Marsha. I am a huge feline fan so these cats and the message move me every time.
Sounds like a great book – especially for anyone who has known a kitten with the heart of a tiger.
Sandi, so true!
You always pick such wonderful books. This is another book that I want to run and check out right away.
Always love your picks and your thorough reviews of your favorite choices. I think I’d like this one. Very creative story, and the Indian research peaks my interest.
What a wonderful book, Joanna. That cover is GORGEOUS! I love books like these and have always bought them for our seven munchkins. Will look for this. (Ivy plans on saving tigers when she grows up) 🙂 Hugs woman!
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