Tigers are the biggest cats in the world—even larger than lions! Each tiger has a unique pattern of stripes, much like people have unique fingerprints. They are excellent swimmers and usually live alone, except for mothers raising their cubs. In the stories that follow, tigers appear not only as fascinating animals but also as symbols of self-acceptance, hope, and generosity. Their adventures highlight lessons about consequences, growth, and perseverance—showing that the biggest cats can help teach some of life’s biggest ideas. My Tiger Written by Joy Cowley Illustrated by David Barrow Minneapolis : Gecko Press, 2026. Picture book. This book is about a tiger who only eats cake. And just like anyone who only eats cake, he ends up with a toothache. Will a dentist be able to help? This delightful story gives a whole new meaning to watching what you eat! You Can't Tame a Tiger Written by Stephanie Ellen Sy Illustrated by Julien Chung Toronto, ON : Owlkids Books, 2025. Picture book. Wha...
A Year Without Home By V.T. Bidania New York: Penguin Group, 2026. 432 pgs. Historical fiction. It's 1975 and 11-year-old Gao Sheng is used to finding bright moments of hope and beauty in the midst of the Laotian civil war. Her father is a high ranking Hmong soldier who has been assisting American troops, and so she is always worried about the war. But she loves her home on top of a beautiful mountain surrounded by peach trees and she loves her family. Suddenly, Laos is taken over by communist troops and Gao Sheng's father receives a warning that their family needs to leave right away or risk being captured. Barely missing the last plane out of Laos, Gao Sheng and her extended family begin a dangerous journey to escape Laos in seek of refuge in Thailand. This first-person novel in verse, based on the true experiences of the author's oldest sister, provides an intimate look at the refugee experience for young readers. Gao Sheng conflicted between her responsibilities as an ...