The Tiger's Wife
by Téa Obreht
Approximately 361 pages
This novel weaves together personal and historical narratives with a touch of magical realism.
Difficulty
Moderate
Pace
Measured
Mood
lyrical, mystical
Book club
High
Is this book for you?
Read this if you enjoy
- rich, layered narratives
- stories that blend reality with myth
- exploring themes of war and memory
Consider another book if
- you prefer straightforward narratives
- you dislike magical realism
- you are looking for a fast-paced story
What it is about
"The Tiger's Wife" follows a young doctor named Natalia as she navigates her grief after the death of her grandfather. Set against the backdrop of a war-torn Balkan country, the narrative intertwines personal loss with folklore. Natalia recalls her grandfather's stories, particularly one about a tiger that escaped from a zoo.
She learns about his relationship with a mysterious woman known as the tiger's wife. The novel explores themes of memory, storytelling, and the impact of war on individuals and communities. Natalia's journey leads her to confront her family's past and the secrets they carried.
The narrative shifts between Natalia's present and her grandfather's experiences during the war. Through these interwoven tales, the novel examines the complexities of love and loss. The tiger serves as a symbol of both danger and beauty throughout the story.
Ultimately, "The Tiger's Wife" reflects on the ways in which stories shape our understanding of life and death.
Award recognition
2011 winner
Women's Prize for Fiction
United Kingdom
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