Heart of a Tiger

By Marsha Diane Arnold, Jamichael Henterly

A kitten seeks a noble name by emulating a Bengal tiger.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 76 ratings

32 pages· 1,582 words· Est. 13 min read-aloud

$16.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

In a world where names hold power, a young kitten embarks on a daring quest to earn a noble title. As the Name Day celebration looms, the kitten must prove its worth by following the majestic path of a Bengal tiger. Will this tiny feline rise to the challenge and claim a name of honor, or will the journey reveal unexpected truths? Adventure and self-discovery await in this heartwarming tale of courage and identity.

From the publisher

As the Name Day celebration approaches, a young kitten tries to deserve a noble name, by following the path of the beautiful Bengal tiger.

At a glance

Format: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Words: 1,582
Reading age: 6–9
Audience: Picture
Lexile: AD780L

Themes & topics

Books about journeys and voyages Books about self-discovery Books about cats Books about tigers Books about following your dreams

Good to know

Stories behind the story

Where did you originally get the idea for this book?

This book came out in 1995, so it's been awhile, but even when I was asked this during my first author visits, it gave me pause. This was my first book and I think the reason for writing it came from deep inside me. Little Four is very much like me - shy, scared, unsure of himself. I think I wrote the book as a way for me to encourage myself to move out into the world, as Little Four did, to see if I could reach my dreams.

What is your favorite thing about this book's main character?

My favorite thing about Little Four is his willingness to go into the dangerous jungle to follow his dreams, even though he is quite frightened.

What would you say is the primary message of this book?

Follow your dreams, even if others make fun of you and discourage you.

When was your favorite time reading this book aloud? Why?

HEART OF A TIGER is probably my longest and most sophisticated picture book. Yet, I've read it to classes from kindergarteners to high school and they all seem mesmerized by Little Four and his journey. I am so grateful to see that the students love my book.

For readers who can't stop at one