The Tiger's Apprentice: Book One

Soon to be an original animated movie streaming on Paramount+ beginning February 2, 2024, starring Henry Golding, Lucy Liu, Brandon Soo Hoo, Academy Award winner Michelle Yeoh, and Golden Globe winner Sandra Oh!

Don’t miss this middle grade fantasy adventure about a boy, a magical tiger, an outlaw dragon, and a mischievous monkey who carry the fate of the world on their shoulders. From two-time Newbery Honor–winning author Laurence Yep (Dragonwings, Dragon’s Gate), now with an all-new cover and introduction! 

Tom Lee’s life changes forever the day he meets a talking tiger named Mr. Hu and discovers that he has magical powers and great responsibilities that he never imagined. Despite his doubts and fears, Tom joins Mr. Hu’s ragtag band of creatures in their fight to keep an ancient talisman out of the hands of the worst possible enemy.

This action-packed fantasy from two-time Newbery Honor–winning author Laurence Yep reveals a hidden world within our own where animals take human form, where friendship is the final weapon in the battle between good and evil, and where a young boy is responsible for saving the world he knows . . . and the one he is just discovering.

This updated edition includes an introduction by Laurence Yep! 

It isn't every day you meet a tiger. And certainly not a tiger in a suit and tie. And definitely not one who knows your first name.

From that minute on, Tom's life changes forever. Tom has always felt different from everyone else, but he has no idea how different he really is until he learns that he is the latest in a long line of magic-wielding beings called Guardians. For centuries, a Guardian has protected a powerful talisman that can either bring peace to the world or bring about its destruction. it has been kept safe-until now.

For now, the most evil being of all has sent his terrifying minions to lay siege to the talisman and its latest Guardian, a tiger called Mr. Hu. The Guardian has his own allies in the battle, including an outlaw dragon, a mischievous monkey, and his new apprentice-Tom. But Tom doesn't want to be the tiger's apprentice. What can he possibly do to help this ragtag band? And can they all stop bickering long enough to unite their powers in time?

This rich, action-packed fantasy from two-time Newbery Honor author Laurence Yep reveals a hidden world within our own-where animals take human form, where friendship is the final weapon in the battle between good and evil, and where a young boy must save the world he knows . . . and the one he is just discovering.

“The action is non-stop, with one predicament and villain after another, and plenty of humor to lighten things up. The emphasis on Chinese folklore and culture keeps the story fresh.” - School Library Journal

“Successfully mixes fantasy and Chinese history. Small touches endow this tale with a sense of wonder.” - Publishers Weekly