When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on January 28, 2020
ISBN: 1524715700
Pages: 304
Genres: Folklore, Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

A young girl discovers her family history when she makes a deal with a magical tiger from her grandmother’s stories. Lily and her family move in with her sick grandmother, Halmoni, and the tiger from her grandmother’s stories appears to Lily with a deal: return what Halmoni stole in exchange for Halmoni’s health. Of course, dealing with a tiger is never straighforward.

This book brings forward aspects of Korean history, family dynamics, and folklore. It is a touching story of family, magic, and perseverance. Best for 4th-6th graders, this book is sure to be a hit.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME