Awhile ago, Tiger vs. Nightmare was on several reading and award lists. I was interested, but even though it looked short, I just never found the right moment to start reading. However, a few weeks ago, while I was browsing the website of my local library, I found that they had a copy of Emily Tetri’s book. I requested some curbside pickup service (along with other books) and find myself reading the other night.
What I found was a single themed story about what a nightmare is and how to beat it. Science fiction/fantasy elements in realistic setting. Girl power at its best. Or at least, interesting, as Tiger is mentioned as female but it is rare. The character could be male or female for as often as the gender is mentioned (though it is obvious when it does). And as she is a girl, the fighting of the nightmare takes on new meaning. Usually it is a boy who is “brave” and fights monsters, but this time a young girl/tiger and her Monster Under the Bed friend fight the nightmares. This time we see that Tiger knows it is just in her head, the Nightmare, but that doesn’t make it less scary.
This is a story about friendship and things that go “bump in the night” that is aimed at the 5 t o7 or 8-year-old. In a graphic novel format, the art is basic, muted (but not necessarily faded) colors. It is a chapter/graphic novel/picture/early reader book. A lot is going on, but at the same time it is focused on the one theme. While it might not be something I would read over multiple times, I know a few readers this would be perfect for.
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