Tiger's Curse / Colleen Houck

3.5/5

I've got some mixed feelings, but overall positive-- I'm smiling as I write this because...well, thinking of the Tiger's Curse makes me smile because at times it was just so silly.

The reason I found Tiger's Curse silly at times is because it is written for children. Or at least, the writing was suitable for children. It's all short, simple sentences. I guess Tiger's Curse would also be appropriate for older readers, but only if you have the patience. I love Kelsey because she's sarcastic and strong and fun, but oftentimes the overly-obvious dialogue and silly conversations would have me covering my face with embarrassment. When I first started the book, I was afraid someone would look over my shoulder, see how simple the words and sentences were, and judge me terribly-- especially because those simple sentences were often describing something vaguely sexual, like how attractive Ren is, or all the tiger licking.

Which brings me to my next point: I was a little uncomfortable with all of the licking tiger-Ren did to Kelsey. But I guess it's all supposed to be very innocent because it's meant for children.

Anyway, the novel is pretty long, and when I discovered how childish the writing is, I really debated whether or not to continue because 1) I was really embarrassed, and 2) I didn't know if I'd be able to make it through such a long novel with such writing. The writing isn't bad at all (on the contrary, I would say it's pretty good), it just isn't tailored for audiences over fifteen. But ultimately I did make it through, and I did like it. Sure, there were some cheesy parts, but there were also very good themes with depth, along with some very thought-provoking, touching scenes. By the end of the novel, I was pretty passionate and invested in the characters, but in a lighthearted, joking way. It's a children's book, and I always knew nothing truly horrible would happen. 

I really like all of the characters and I want to know what happens to them...so I googled it. There are way too many books in the series, and each book is way too long, for me to spend so much of my time reading writing that isn't challenging or engaging for me. I would recommend this book to parents who want to read to children aged around eleven to fifteen, and possibly even younger if they skip the makeout scenes. They can experience an adventurous but also safe YA novel that touches upon themes of self-identity, and Kelsey will introduce them to strength, compassion, and self-respect.