Sometimes, a Tiger
By (Author) Z.B. Asterplume
St Martin's Press
St Martin's Press
14th November 2023
United States
Children
Fiction
Childrens / Teenage emotions: Compassion, empathy, kindness
Childrens / Teenage: Social topics: Poverty / precarity
Childrens / Teenage general interest: Cats including big cats
813.6
Hardback
32
Width 265mm, Height 14mm, Spine 268mm
A moving picture book by Z.B. Asterplume about imagination and kindness. Dario's day starts like many others: There's not much to eat. But today, the pantry has a surprise as a tiger emerges and accompanies Dario through his day. A tiger Dario's friends can't believe their eyes! Soon, they too see the wonders around them, as they share their day with creatures large and small. Is it imagination Whatever it is, the result is joy and kindness. In a world where imagination and generosity can be as scarce as food in some pantries, here is a reminder for readers of all ages that kindness nourishes all of us.
"Asterplume has a perfect grasp of the give-and-take between pictures and text. ... A powerful imagination is no substitute for a good meal, but this book drops a broad hint that good spirits and a caring community can be rallied to the cause." --School Library Journal, starred review
" Z.B. Asterplume's debut picture book beautifully conveys how imagination--and "sometimes, a tiger"--can make all the difference on a belly-grumbling, "not-so-shiny day." {W]ith its perfect balance of text and art, it is a story of food insecurity, but it's also a story of sharing, caring, making connections, and strengthening community. ... Young readers should relate to Dario's kindness being repaid in kind. Because, surely, there are times when everyone can use a tiger."--Shelf Awareness, starred review
"Dario opens the pantry to find few options for breakfast: "a can of beans, pretzels, pickles." His hunger is forgotten, however, when he discovers a tiger hiding within. ... Dario's community comes together to fill his plate. Animals, including Dario's tiger, a bejeweled giraffe, and an octopus clutching celery, are whimsically rendered, participating in visual gags that will delight young readers." --Kirkus Reviews
Z.B. Asterplume began her illustration career as a scenic artist for the Denver Center Theater Company, and has worked as a teacher for special needs students. She now works for a software company and lives in Westminster, Colorado with her family. Dario's Tiger is her picture book debut.