Title: Tiger Eyes
Author: Judy Blume
First published January 1, 1981
218 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780330398121 (ISBN10: 0330398121)
Rating: 3.9
Overview
After a devastating loss, Davey’s life is turned upside down. With her family moving to New Mexico to start anew, Davey is struggling to cope with the changes.
While exploring Los Alamos Canyons, she meets a mysterious boy named Wolf, who shares a similar pain. As the two grow closer, Wolf helps Davey confront her anger and fear.
But moving on from the past is easier said than done. Will Davey ever find peace and learn to let go of her pain?
About the Author
Judy Blume, a renowned author, grew up in Elizabeth, New Jersey, where she created imaginative stories in her mind. Even as an adult, she continued to do the same, except now she writes them down on paper.
Her books, such as Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret; Blubber; Just as Long as We’re Together; and the Fudge series, are recognized by both children and adults.
She has also written three adult novels, Summer Sisters; Smart Women; and Wifey, all of which have been New York Times bestsellers. Her books have sold over 80 million copies and have been translated into 31 languages.
She receives numerous letters from readers of all ages who share their thoughts and feelings with her.
In 1961, Judy earned a Bachelor of Science in education from New York University, which named her a Distinguished Alumna in 1996. That same year, the American Library Association recognized her with the Margaret A.
Edwards Award for Lifetime Achievement. She has received other accolades, including the Library of Congress Living Legends Award and the 2004 National Book Foundation’s Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters.
Judy founded The Kids Fund, which is a foundation that focuses on education and charity. She is also a board member of the Author’s Guild, the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, the Key West Literary Seminar, and the National Coalition Against Censorship.
Judy is a strong supporter of intellectual freedom. In the 1980s, she found herself at the center of a book banning campaign and began reaching out to other writers, teachers, and librarians facing similar challenges.
Since then, she has collaborated with the National Coalition Against Censorship to protect the freedom to read. She edited Places I Never Meant To Be, Original Stories by Censored Writers.
Judy has written a series of four chapter books, The Pain & the Great One, in collaboration with New Yorker cartoonist James Stevenson. She co-wrote and produced a film adaptation of her book Tiger Eyes and is currently working on a new novel.
Judy and her husband George Cooper reside on islands along the east coast. They have three grown children and one grandchild.
Editoral Review
Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume is a young adult novel first published in 1981. Blume is a bestselling author known for her frank portrayals of adolescence, puberty, and other significant themes that affect teenagers.
The novel follows the story of Davey, a 15-year-old girl, as she tries to cope with the death of her father and the many changes that come with it. Set against the backdrop of Los Alamos, New Mexico, Tiger Eyes explores themes such as grief, family, identity, and love.
Davey’s father was killed in a convenience store robbery, and her family moves to Los Alamos to stay with her aunt and uncle. Davey is struggling to adjust to her new life and is tormented by nightmares about the robbery.
She meets Wolf, a young man who helps her confront her fears and eventually falls in love with her. One of the strengths of the novel is Blume’s excellent character development.
Davey, Wolf, and the other characters in the novel are relatable, and readers will find themselves rooting for them as they navigate their way through various challenges. Blume’s use of language is also commendable, and she weaves in vivid descriptions that allow the reader to visualize the setting.
While the novel is not groundbreaking in terms of its themes or plot, it is a well-crafted work that highlights the importance of family and love. The pacing of the novel is excellent, and there is always something happening that keeps the reader engaged.
The only drawback to the novel is that it might not appeal to readers who are not interested in coming-of-age stories or who are looking for more action-packed novels. Tiger Eyes has cultural significance in that it addresses issues that continue to affect teenagers today, such as grief, identity, and social pressures.
The novel is an excellent example of Judy Blume’s writing style and is still relevant today, four decades after its initial publication. In conclusion, I highly recommend Tiger Eyes to young adult readers who are looking for an engaging, well-written coming-of-age novel.
The novel is perfect for readers who enjoy stories about love, family, and identity. I rate Tiger Eyes 4 out of 5 stars, based on its excellent character development, pacing, and themes.