Winner
of the Fidler Award, this is a compelling, globally successful book
about becoming a refugee, told with compassion and hope.
War and drought have come to Tiger's country. Just before Tiger's family leaves, Tiger finds a fish struggling for life in a drying-up puddle - and rescues it. And so they set off on a dangerous journey across the mountains, with only what they can carry on their backs - the fish's grip on survival mirroring their own.
Critically acclaimed for its subtlety and simplicity, this is a universal fable where the specifics of geography, conflict and even the gender of the narrator are not given. Anyone can identify with Tiger's desire to make a difference to the world, and keep hope alive.
L.S. Matthews, a Goldsmiths' College graduate, worked briefly in publishing and then in education, before becoming a full-time writer. She lives in Dorset with her husband and two children.
An unusual and touching story of bravery and determination
Newbury Weekly News
[An] unpretentious gem of a novel
South China Morning Post
Outstanding
Aldershot Mail
Stunning debut novel
The Glasgow Herald
the fable-like quality of the telling has a subdued power.
Linda Newbury, TES
Matthews allows just enough detail - and heart - to make miracles feel possible.
Book of the week, Publishers Weekly
powerful and often surreal tale
Western Gazette
A very unusual book, it maintained its pace ... the characters are so well drawn.
Armadillo
A wonderful story of survival simply and powerfully told.
Daily Echo
A strong, tender story ... I highly recommend this book.
Children's Books in Ireland
A Dog for Life: 'Children of eight to 11 will love it. And so did I.'
Telegraph
The Outcasts: 'this absorbing adventure story ... would provoke much useful discussion among KS3 students, both in the classroom and within a smaller book-group context.'
School Librarian