The Good Tiger

A parent might reach for this book when their child feels a little lonely or different, or when they want to introduce the concept of selfless generosity in a gentle, heartwarming way. This classic tale from 1965 is about a tiger in a zoo who is too polite and gentle to be considered a 'proper' tiger by the visitors. His loneliness is eased when he befriends two children, Susan and John. He spends all his savings to treat them to cakes, discovering that the greatest joy comes from kindness and connection. Its quiet, old-fashioned charm makes it a perfect, comforting read-aloud for ages 4-8, modeling empathy and the idea that being true to your own kind nature is the best way to be.