For tigers-in-training

Taking a break from my JP and the stressful, hectic final weeks of junior year that nothing can truly prepare you for, I sat down at my desk last week and opened the first "fun book" that I've looked at since I can't remember when. "Where Are the Tigers?," written by Mandy Lee Berman '92 and illustrated by Ashley Rice '96, is a delightful children's book about Freddie, a little boy, and his first experience of Princeton Reunions.

After waking up early one summer day, Freddie's dad tells him they are on a trip to see tigers. Freddie's excitement and wonder builds as their trip to Princeton progresses. Believing that he is going to see real live tigers, Freddie gets increasingly upset as time goes by and no tigers are in sight. Finally his curiosity gets the better of him: "Mom, Dad, You told me that we would see tigers today! You promised me that there would be tigers! Where are the tigers? I want to see tigers now!"

Freddie's mom dresses him in a tiger costume and the family marches in the P-rade. Finally, Freddie gets a grasp on the meaning of Princeton meaning of the word tiger. The book ends on a sweet and upbeat note, as Freddie blurts out the phrase that many children of Princeton alumni die to claim as their own: "Mom's a tiger. Dad's a tiger. And I'm a tiger too!"

Highlights of the book include the fact that it was produced as a collaborative alumni effort. The simple prose, accompanied by minimalist drawings, is sure to please children. And it's a quick bedtime read for overworked and overtired moms and dads. While the story is not terribly exciting — and I will admit that the grand finale of the "tiger discovery" struck me as a bit anticlimactic — "Where Are the Tigers?" is another feather in Princeton's ever-expanding cap of Princeton memorabilia, joining an illustrious list of items that includes "The Rule of Four"and "Beautiful Mind." Perhaps not the same quality, but the Princeton pride still rings loud and clear.

Looking for that perfect birthday present for your little nephew or niece? This book is it. The book is being sold at the U-Store, with proceeds supporting the community service activities of the Class of 1992. Those of you consumed with school spirit, be sure to pick them up for future progeny. It's never too early to plan ahead...