In Kate DiCamillo's The Tiger Rising, 12-year-old Rob Horton grapples with grief after his mother's death and moves to Lister, Florida, with his father. Rob discovers a caged tiger and befriends an outspoken new girl, Sistine. Together, they face the dilemma of whether to free the tiger, forcing Rob to confront his emotions and heal through their friendship. 

Sensitive topics include grief and bullying.

Kate DiCamillo's The Tiger Rising has been lauded for its lyrical prose and poignant exploration of grief and friendship. However, some critics argue that the storyline may be too simplistic for older readers. The character development and emotional depth are particularly praised, making it a heartfelt read for middle-grade audiences.

A reader who would enjoy The Tiger Rising by Kate DiCamillo likely appreciates emotionally charged, character-driven narratives. Fans of Bridge to Terabithia or Because of Winn-Dixie might find this tale compelling, as it explores themes of loss, friendship, and personal growth within a Southern setting. Aimed at middle-grade audiences, it resonates with readers who value heartfelt storytelling and character resilience.

Melancholic / Contemplative / Mysterious / Emotional / Bittersweet

- The Tiger Rising was a National Book Award Finalist for Young People's Literature in 2001.
- The book was adapted into a film in 2022, starring Queen Latifah and Dennis Quaid.
- Author Kate DiCamillo is a two-time Newbery Medal winner, although she didn't win it for The Tiger Rising.

**Rob Horton**  
A twelve-year-old boy who recently moved to Lister, Florida with his father after losing his mother. He is quiet, artistic, and struggles with his emotions following his mother's death.

**Sistine Bailey**  
A new girl in town with a bold personality, who quickly becomes an outsider due to her defiance and unique style. She forms a friendship with Rob, which impacts them both significantly.

**Robert Horton**  
Rob's father, who is dealing with the loss of his wife and is trying to start over in a new town. He is protective and wants to provide for his son while grappling with his own grief.

**Willie May**  
The housekeeper at the Kentucky Star Motel where Rob lives, who becomes his friend and confidante. She shares wisdom from her life experiences and has a comforting presence.

**Beauchamp**  
The flamboyant and boastful owner of the Kentucky Star Motel, who has a penchant for flaunting his perceived wealth and status. He plays a key role in a secret that Rob and Sistine discover.

**Caroline**  
Rob’s mother, whose artistic spirit and nurturing presence continue to influence Rob's memories and actions, though she has passed away before the story begins.

Kate DiCamillo

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Chapters 1-5

The Tiger Rising Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-10

The Tiger Rising Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-15

The Tiger Rising Chapters 11-15 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 16-20

The Tiger Rising Chapters 16-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-25

The Tiger Rising Chapters 21-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-30

The Tiger Rising Chapters 26-30 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Tiger Rising Character Analysis

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The Tiger Rising

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