Tiger Stone

by Deryn Mansell

Tiger eyes, tiger spirit, tiger stone. Only a daughter could unlock the stone's power. Java, fourteenth century. The villagers are fearful of Mbah Merapi, the rumbling volcano that overshadows their lives. Kancil, the lowliest kitchen servant, knows the real danger is human but she is fatherless and mute - and she will lose everything if her identity is revealed. How can Kancil warn the villagers of the danger they are in?

Genres: Historical Fiction

260 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Patricia Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Haven't had a novel set in ancient Indonesia before. Bravo.

[Wahyuningtyas · Rating 4 out of 5]

To be honest, it's an interesting book. Deryn can combine a history and fiction in a smooth way. Made it a fascinating story about how little girl half Sundanese-half Javanese who pretend to be mute for a long time and a tiger boy can save their village from bandits.

If you're Indonesian and want to enjoy reading fiction book mixed with historical places, food, drinks and culture. This is a good recommendation for you.

But, if you're a foreigner who want to know about Indonesian places, food, drinks, culture in Kingdom Era in Fourteenth Century, this will a good recommendation for you. And, if you want to make a tour about historical heritage about Majapahit Kingdom and see the real construction in Indonesia, I recommend you to visit Historical Sites of Trowulan in Mojokerto, East Java. Otherwise, if you want to go to Sundanese Kingdom, I suggest you to visit Historical Sites of Galuh/Kawali Kingdom in Ciamis, West Java.

P.S:
I think this book is for intermediate level of English. For everyone who want to get a little bit challenge to read a novel with intermediate level English, I recommend this book to you. Worth to read and enjoy the story!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t expecting to like this as it’s very different from what I would normally choose to read. However, the story was compelling and it really drew me into the life of the village. The ending felt a little rushed and I’m not quite sure of the meaning of what Aryani saw when she wore the necklace. I enjoyed it overall, though, and would definitely read more from this author.

[Kim Hayes · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think my lower mark is because I had a few months away from the story due to lockdown (it was at work!). I did like it and the setting etc was different and interesting. I just didn't build a relationship with the characters.

[Susannah Macdonald · Rating 1 out of 5]

Honestly! I have not really read this. Zero happening by chapter 5. Utterly bored out my mind. I never give up on a book so this is a 1st for me. I pursued to my best but I resent wasting my time when my personal down time is so precious. I feel robbed.

[Mrs Jacqueline Chessell · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a delightful book, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The tale unfolds quickly, once started I couldn’t put it down. Probably meant for young adults, but I would recommend it to anyone.

[poeticcbiatch · Rating 2 out of 5]

It actually has a good premise, but the plot is too simple. I don't really feel the tense.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an enjoyable read for an Indonesian teacher who hopes her students will read and enjoy it too.
There will have to be a sequel to this gentle yet engaging adventure set way back in Indonesia's history - very fresh and unique.

[Emma Darcy · Rating 3 out of 5]

* 3.5

it would have absolutely been 5 stars if it had not had the unnecessary 'now' chapters at the beginning and end.