Book a Day Book #1 Tiger Rising

I have one week of vacation between the end of school (and professional development) and the start of summer school. I have decided to read a book a day during my break, and even possible continue my reading during the month of summer school. It gives me a good excuse to occupy the hammock in the garden! Book #1 I finished was 'The Tiger Rising,' by Kate DiCamillo. I have to admit, this is not my favorite DiCamillo book, but it is a touching story.

The main character, Rob Horton, is an outcast at school- picked on by bullies, lonely, unable to stand up for himself. He and his father live in the Kentucky Star Hotel in Florida. His mother has recently died, and both he and his father have not really begun to deal with their grief. One day, Rob stumbles upon a tiger locked in a cage in the forest behind the motel. He is fascinated by it. He befriends a new girl named Sistine, who is also a loner and in need of friendship. The two decide what to do about the tiger, with the help of Willie May, a maid at the hotel.

I love the characters in this book. They definitely remind me of the people in my favorite DiCamillo book, 'Winn Dixie.' Rob and Sistine are lonely and heartbroken but their coming together helps them move through their troubles towards healing. The tiger does not fill the same role as the dog Winn Dixie does. Winn Dixie gives the story laughter and love, but the tiger is a ferocious animal, trapped, pacing in his cage. I wanted to like the tiger just as I loved Winn Dixie, but I didn't. Maybe that is what is missing for me in this story.

'The Tiger Rising,' is a quick read, and reads more like a short story. I recommend the book, but if you haven't read 'Winn Dixie,' read that one first!!