Riding the Tiger succeeds by validating the secret jealousies of a child awaiting an adopted sibling from across the world. The story balances the suspense of a long journey with a parent's gentle reassurance that love is not a finite resource. Books in this family share an honest portrayal of complicated feelings and a satisfying emotional transformation.
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the complex emotions of a new sibling entering the home through adoption. It is especially helpful if your child has expressed fears of being replaced or is struggling to reconcile their love for their parents with the 'intruder' they feel a new baby represents. The story follows Davey, a young boy who is uncertain about his new brother arriving from Korea. Through gentle observation and parental reassurance, he moves from skepticism to acceptance. Eve Bunting masterfully captures the specific anxiety of a child who feels their territory is being encroached upon. While the focus is on international adoption, the emotional core is universal for any family growing in size. It is a quiet, realistic look at the transition period of becoming a big brother, perfect for children ages 4 to 8 who need to see their jealous feelings mirrored and then resolved in a safe, loving way.
