Tiger, Tiger   by Lynne Reid Banks Collins, 2004, 219 pages, ISBN 0007190417

How easy was it to get stuck into this book?
This book, set in Ancient Rome, follows the fates of a pair of tigers captured from the wild and brought to Rome, but for very different purposes. Although the characters are fictional, it is very historically accurate, and very enjoyable to read.

Who are the main characters?
Aside from the two tigers, named Brute and Boots by their keepers or owners, the main character in the book is the Princess Aurelia, daughter of the Emperor. Her father is very protective of her, especially when it comes to men, and no male is allowed to go near her without his approval. As well as Aurelia, other important characters in the book are Julius, a tiger keeper who is also a slave, Marcus, the son of a senator, who is tipped to become Aurelia's future husband, and Aurelia's mother and Nurse.

What's the storyline?
When the two tigers are captured and brought to Rome, one is sent to the arena, while the other is given to the Princess herself as a gift from her father, obviously supervised at all times by a slave, Julius, who makes sure that no injury comes to the princess. The book then follows the very different lives the two tigers lead, until eventually they meet in the arena.

How's it written?
Probably best suited for middling readers in the cool-reads age range.

Other books by the same author that Tim knows about?
Loads

The overall verdict is
Really good stuff

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