I’ve been waiting for this book to come out for a LOOOOONNGGG time! You see, I first read it in 2021 when my friend Glenn McCarty and I exchanged manuscripts for feedback. I sent him Beneath the Swirling Sky (which was published in 2023). He sent me The Song of the Stone Tiger. I loved his story about a boy processing his mother’s cancer diagnosis who befriends a tiger in a magical woods, all set in North Carolina.
So when I heard that it was being published by Bandersnatch books, I told Glenn he had to let me endorse it! Here’s what I wrote:
“Get ready for a fantastical adventure that will leave you longing to head outdoors and explore our own amazing earth. With stories and songs woven like vines throughout, The Song of the Stone Tiger is a tale of hope, beauty, and friendship that makes ordinary moments feel extraordinary.”
The Story
Ten-year-old Thomas arrives in North Carolina with his family for the summer. His mom needs to rest and recover after intensive cancer treatment, but the family soon learns the disease is back. With his parents occupied, his aunt encourages him to explore the woods behind the house. Right away, the woods seem otherworldly. And that’s before Thomas happens about a stone tiger brought to life by his singing. Through play, exploration, and deep connection, Thomas processes his feelings about his mother’s diagnosis by trying to help the tiger, Shalomar, stop turning to stone and return home.
What I loved about The Song of the Stone Tiger
The best thing about this story is how McCarty brings the natural world to life and embues it with magic. For most of the story, we aren’t quite sure if the woods are really magical or if Thomas is just experiencing them that way. But I think this is a book that will pull children out of doors and off to explore the natural world around them. And that is a beautiful thing.
Parents should know
Ten-year-old Thomas ventures into the woods overnight, once without his parents blessing, the second time with, to help Shalomar. I see this more as a story device than a recommendation, but it may be a conversation you want to have with your kids.
Also, as mentioned before, Thomas’ mom has cancer, and he’s dealing with very serious concerns about what might happen to her and their family.
This is a wonderful novel for ages eight and up! It has elements that will appeal both to kids who prefer more realistic fiction as well as fantasy fans.
Glenn McCarty is also the author of the Tumbleweed Thompson books. These are great friendship, adventure stories set in the Wild West.
