Book Review of Sometimes, a Tiger
The Children’s Book Review
Sometimes, a Tiger
Written and Illustrated by Z.B. Asterplume
Ages: 4-8 | 32 Pages
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends (2023) | ISBN-13: 978-1250823441
What to Expect: Imagination, kindness, friendship, emotional resilience, and hope.
In Sometimes, a Tiger, debut author-illustrator Z.B. Asterplume blends quiet magic and emotional depth in a tender picture book about how imagination and kindness can brighten even the most difficult days.
Dario’s morning begins like many others—with little to eat and much left to want. But the day transforms when he opens the pantry and discovers a tiger waiting inside. The tiger becomes a companion, joining Dario as he navigates a sparse, uncertain world that becomes steadily richer through connection and wonder. When Dario’s friends begin to see their own magical companions, the world around them begins to change, too, not because their circumstances shift, but because their perspectives and generosity do.
The story’s ambiguity—Is the tiger real? Is it pretend?—invites conversation and interpretation, making it as meaningful for adult readers as it is delightful for children. With lyrical text and dreamlike illustrations, Asterplume gently explores the transformative power of imagination, especially in the face of scarcity. Her artistic background shines through each page, with softly textured illustrations that feel theatrical and intimate all at once—the muted palette mirrors Dario’s reality, while whimsical animal companions infuse the world with wonder.
Ideal for classroom discussions about empathy and emotional resilience, or for quiet storytimes that leave room for questions and dreams, Sometimes, a Tiger offers a powerful reminder: while food may be scarce, kindness and imagination can be shared freely—and they nourish everyone. A poetic, visually rich debut that affirms the quiet magic of seeing the world—and each other—with hope.
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About the Author-Illustrator
Z.B. Asterplume began her illustration artistic career as a scenic artist for the Denver Center Theater Company, and has worked as a paraprofessional for special needs students in many elementary schools. She now works as a Direct Support Professional for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as writing and illustrating picture books. She lives in Westminster, Colorado with her family. Sometimes, a Tiger is her picture book debut.
For more information, visit: https://asterplume.com
