75 pages • 2 hours read
When You Trap a Tiger
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Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
Northern California • Contemporary
2020
Middle grade
8-12 years
590L
Super Short Summary
In When You Trap a Tiger, middle schooler Lily Reeves and her family move in with her ailing Korean grandmother (Halmoni). To save Halmoni, Lily makes a deal with a mystical tiger, learns about her family's past, and deepens her connection to her Korean heritage. The novel beautifully weaves contemporary life with fantasy elements while exploring themes of family, culture, and identity. Health challenges, such as brain cancer, are addressed.
Emotional
Fantastical
Contemplative
Heartwarming
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
21,221 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Tae Keller's When You Trap a Tiger beautifully intertwines Korean folklore with a heartfelt family narrative, earning praise for its lyrical prose and emotional depth. Reviewers commend its portrayal of intergenerational relationships and cultural heritage. However, some note a slow start and feel certain cultural elements may need more context for broader understanding. Overall, it's a touching and imaginative read.
Who Should Read When You Trap a Tiger?
Readers who enjoy enchanting tales with emotional depth, such as Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai or Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin, will find When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller captivating. Ideal for middle-grade readers interested in Korean folklore, family bonds, and personal growth.
21,221 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
304
Novel • Fiction
Northern California • Contemporary
2020
Middle grade
8-12 years
590L
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