This delightful picture book for young children aged 2–4 is a classic the world over. Judith Kerr wrote and illustrated the book, and even though it was published in 1968 it continues to entertain and engage children with its charming story. My copy almost fell to pieces from repetitive reading and my love of the expression on the tiger’s face has never left me. It tells the story of an unexpected visit by a tiger to Sophie’s house, just as she is about to have afternoon tea with her mother. After eating and drinking everything they have in the entire house, he lies on the kitchen bench and drinks all of the water from the tap, then ups and leaves. This means no bath for Sophie and no dinner when their father returns from work, so off the family goes to a restaurant, happily! Judith Kerr writes books about animals with attitude, and young children become intrigued by the relationship these animals have with humans. An absolute gem.

Alice Bisits works as a bookseller at Readings Malvern.