When a Tiger Flies - by Susie Yi (Hardcover)

About the Book

A searing graphic novel about a teen's first love in college, the toxic relationship she becomes trapped in, and the intergenerational strength that gives her the courage to break free, from acclaimed author Susie Yi, creator of Cat & Cat and A Sky of Paper Stars.

Book Synopsis

A searing graphic novel about a teen's first love in college, the toxic relationship she becomes trapped in, and the intergenerational strength that gives her the courage to break free, from acclaimed author Susie Yi, creator of Cat & Cat and A Sky of Paper Stars.

Sixteen-year-old Ara is a prodigy. Under the sheltered care of her parents, Ara has achieved her life goal--she's going to Harvard College.

But while Ara had prepared herself for getting into Harvard, she isn't ready for what college brings. She's no longer the only genius at school, her parents aren't around, and being two years younger than her fellow freshmen means Ara is in the dark about a lot of things, especially romantic relationships.

Things spiral out of control as Ara struggles to maintain top grades and falls for an older classmate, who offers to help her. But when he becomes controlling and abusive, she gradually realizes, through time and healing, that she must find her inner tiger and roar.

Inspired by author-illustrator Susie Yi's own experience, When a Tiger Flies is an achingly honest and deeply moving graphic novel about first college experiences, toxic relationships, and inherited resilience, upending the stereotype about her "tiger parents".

Review Quotes

PRAISE FOR A SKY OF PAPER STARS: A MIDDLE GRADE GRAPHIC NOVEL
A Little Maverick Graphic Novel Reading List Pick
An ALA 2023 Best Graphic Novel for 5-6th Grade
Denny O'Neil Official Final Reading List

"I can't rave enough about A Sky of Paper Stars. It is charming, heartfelt and a joy to read. It's a beautiful story about grief and belonging that all ages can relate to. This graphic novel is a triumph for so many Korean American kids feeling caught between two cultures. Every page touched my heart and left me wishing I could give this book to my younger self." --Michelle Mee Nutter, Eisner nominated, best-selling illustrator of Allergic

"Heartbreakingly beautiful! Such a simple, poignant story, brought to life in a fresh way by a talented storyteller and illustrator." --Abigail Hing Wen, New York Times best selling author of the Loveboat, Taipei series

"A heartfelt and magical journey about belonging and identity that will have you rooting for Yuna." --Remy Lai, award-winning author of Pie In the Sky

"A Sky of Paper Stars is a complex story of belonging that is beautifully told through charming illustrations and honest truth." --Victoria Ying, author-illustrator of Hungry Ghost

"This is a quiet and deeply moving story of intergenerational love and sacrifice... An affirming exploration of belonging and a testament to the power of family stories." --Kirkus, starred review

About the Author

Susie Yi is an author and illustrator who loves to tell meaningful stories. She has a B.A. in molecular & cellular biology from Harvard College and an M.S. in computer science from The University of Chicago. She worked in both healthcare and tech, until serendipity took her on a big pivot into creating books. Storytelling has always been a big passion of hers, and her hope is that her books will inspire both kids and adults alike. susieyi.com