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Tiger’s Last Roar

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Book Synopsis

A beautifully lyrical story about grief, the loss of a pet and the unbreakable bond between child and furry friend. From debut picture book author, Harriet Howe, and Waterstones Children’s Book Prize shortlistee and Carnegie Medal for Illustration nominee illustrator, Katie Cottle.

After a whole day of exploring with Tiger, Mae loved drawing with Tiger and telling stories with Tiger.
Always with Tiger. Tiger and Mae. Queens of the Jungle.

Tiger and Mae do everything together, the very best of friends. But there is nothing they love more than exploring, racing and chasing across their jungle. That is, until the call comes for “TEATIME!” and they race back to the house. As time moves on, Mae realises that Tiger is getting old and tired. And when Tiger then dies, Mae feels lost in a whirlwind of anger, fear and sadness. Even the safety of their jungle is stripped away. Only through time and healing does Mae learn that Tiger lives on – through her memories, pictures and their jungle itself.

This book is a profoundly moving, hopeful and reassuring story that celebrates the strength that comes from love and supports a child (and adults too) through navigating the loss of a beloved pet. A necessary and important book for your bookshelf.

Our Review Panel says...

Tiger’s Last Roar is a powerful and engaging picture book that introduces young readers to the importance of wildlife conservation. The story follows a tiger whose once-strong roar is beginning to fade as its natural habitat is gradually destroyed by human activity. Through this simple but emotional narrative, children are encouraged to think about the impact humans have on animals and the environment.

As the tiger journeys through its changing home, it finds fewer places to live and fewer animals around it. The idea of the ‘last roar’ symbolises both the tiger’s struggle and a warning about what could happen if people do not take care of the natural world. The language is clear and accessible, making it suitable for primary-aged pupils while still delivering an important message.

The illustrations are an important part of the book, using bold colours and contrasting images to show the beauty of the tiger’s environment alongside the damage being caused. This helps children to understand complex environmental issues in a visual and meaningful way.

The book links well to the primary curriculum. In English, it supports comprehension, discussion, and creative writing. In Science and Geography, it connects to topics such as habitats, ecosystems, and endangered animals. In PSHE, it encourages children to think about responsibility and caring for living things.

Tiger’s Last Roar is a meaningful and accessible text that helps children develop empathy, awareness, and a sense of responsibility for the world around them.