When You Trap a Tiger by Tae Keller

Unlock the Magic of Storytelling

When You Trap a Tiger is an unforgettable story by Tae Keller that brings Korean folklore to life. This New York Times Bestseller and 2021 Newbery Medal winner is a heartfelt journey through memory, myth, and healing, perfect for middle-grade readers and anyone who believes in the power of stories.

Major Awards & Honors

• Winner of the 2021 Newbery Medal
• Winner of the Asian/Pacific American Award for Children's Literature
• New York Times Bestseller

Story Overview

When Lily moves in with her ailing grandmother, she finds herself face-to-face with a magical tiger—one that stepped right out of her grandmother’s folktales. The tiger offers her a deal: return what Halmoni stole long ago in exchange for her health. But as Lily discovers, tiger deals are never as simple as they seem.

What Makes It Special

• Richly layered with Korean cultural elements
• A story of family, courage, and self-discovery
• Perfect for fans of The Girl Who Drank the Moon and Inside Out and Back Again

About the Author

Tae Keller is an award-winning author known for crafting stories that blend real-life emotion with the magic of myth and imagination. When You Trap a Tiger is her breakout novel that continues to inspire and resonate with readers across the globe.