Tiger of Bitter Valley

by Norma R. Youngberg

A boy comes of age in this gripping tale of good vs. evil. Rimau, "Menga-Rajah-Segala-Harimau-Great Ruler of all Tigers," the young son of Chief Feermin, is the central character. He is faced with a compelling set of circumstances which includes firsthand knowledge of Gadoh's revenge. "Koosta, Koosta" (leprosy), a curse cast upon the young Rimau by the witch doctor, is only one of the many obstacles facing our young hero. As the story unfolds, Rimau's special relationship with Tigers is explored. Possessing the "magic of the tigers" in his blood is Rimau's secret weapon.

Genres: Childrens

251 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Truly · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Saja tak kenapa" anak itu berkata, Bapak saja berkata bahwa saja mempunyai kesaktian harimau dalan diri saja. Itulah sebabnya saja dipanggilkan Rimau."

Membaca buku dengan ejaan lawas memiliki seni tersendiri. Awal mungkin akan tersendat, namun begitu kita terbiasa dengan ejaan yang digunakan, kecepatan membaca meeningkat. Sebuah karya yang indah.

[Wickedpen]

Originally my Mother's brother's copy. Signed by the author, too!

[LobsterQuadrille · Rating 4 out of 5]

Years ago, I discovered The Tiger of Bitter Valley completely by chance in a thrift store. I remember not being too entranced by it upon my first reading, but I have read it twice more since then, and enjoyed it both times. Rimau is a very likable young hero, and the villains are appropriately menacing. There are also some enjoyable side characters, a suspenseful story, and very nice illustrations. Perhaps my favorite aspect of this book is its strong and immersive sense of place and culture. And although I don't know enough about Sumatran culture to know how accurate the details are, it has made me interested in finding more books set in this part of the world.

The only thing I really don't like about The Tiger of Bitter Valley is the author's decision to kill off the tigers. The tree-hugger in me cringes a bit at this. And if Rimau was supposed to have "tiger magic", wouldn't this element be have more purpose if he could somehow use it to make the tigers fear and respect him?. This may have been meant to reflect the attitude real-life villagers would have held(which would be a more understandable viewpoint for someone living in the middle of a huge jungle), but it is the one aspect of the book that shows its age.

Other than this point, The Tiger of Bitter Valley is a timeless and immersive adventure. For me, this book is a strange little hidden gem that I am very glad to have found!

[Brittany · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one is interesting but pretty scary for young readers. I like her missionary books better.