The theme of The Tiger Rising revolves around the struggles of grief, the process of healing, and the idea of freedom. The narrative follows a young boy named Rob who wrestles with the pain of losing his mother.
Throughout the story, the tiger, caged and confined, symbolizes the inner turmoil and emotions that Rob experiences. The tiger’s desire for freedom mirrors Rob’s own longing to escape the sadness and burdens he carries. As Rob encounters new friendships and learns to confront his fears, he begins to understand the importance of expressing his feelings and letting go of the past.
Additionally, themes of hope and resilience are prominent as Rob navigates the challenges of adolescence and learns to find strength in vulnerability. The interactions with the tiger prompt Rob to embrace his own journey toward healing and self-acceptance.