Tiger Eyes

Tiger Eyes is a YA novel written by the one and only Judy Blume, the original queen of teen. Simple and powerful, this story is about a daughter coping with unimaginable loss. Its basic storytelling is made strong and fascinating by the subject matter. The plot is given depth by its sheer simplicity and honesty.

This story follows Davey, the daughter in a family of four. When her father is violently killed Davey retreats inside herself trying to make sense of a sense less incident. Davey's pain and reactions are contrasted by her younger brother, who copes by trying to bring back normalcy. Her mother slowly recedes in shock and exhaustion, leaving her family to figure things out alone. Davey is reeling with pent up emotions, in a fit of frustration she finds herself hiking down into a canyon. Through hiking Davey meets Wolf, a stranger who helps her start the journey of healing.

The characters in Tiger Eyes are strongly defined, each one possessing memorable features and traits. Davey is a relatable teenager, but still her own person. Her personality shows a sharp attentive view of the world. Her little brother is fun, carefree, and childish, but on the inside he realizes the affect of his fathers death. Wolf is silent and supporting, left mostly as a mystery for the reader to think over on their own.

In the end Davey is left with a new outlook on life and a better acceptance of death. She begins to repair the relationships with her family and put the pieces back together. Davey and Wolf go their separate ways, but Davey receives a gift from Wolf in the mail, a reminder that they will see each other again.

Tiger Eyes is a touching story of healing after loss. It shows that no matter what horrible events happen in our lives, family can help put you back together. Tiger Eyes truly is a timeless YA classic.

Have you read this original teen drama?

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