Author Session: Maria Mahat (The Year of the Tiger)

About the Session

In this author talk, Maria Mahat will launch and discuss the main themes of her book, The Year of the Tiger.

About the Author

Maria Mahat is an author, educator, consultant, and co-founder of Ungu Pen, a Singapore-based independent publishing house. She has written and published extensively in English and Malay for children's picture books, short stories, and a young adult novella. As an educator and trainer, she has conducted museum-based programs and workshops for students and teachers at the Malay Heritage Centre, Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, Indian Heritage Centre, National Museum of Singapore, and the Asian Civilisations Museum.

About the Book

A heartwarming tale of adoption, cherishing the joy of having not just one, but two families—those bound by blood and those chosen. Because in the end, family means love.

In 1950 Malaya, also the Year of the Tiger based on the Chinese zodiac calendar, a baby girl was born. In the Tan household, superstitions prevail as the grandmother, Ah Ma believed that the baby girl was subjected to the “tiger curse” and will only bring misfortune and bad luck. The baby girl must be given up for adoption.

Che’ Tah and Wahab, their neighbour who already had two children, opened their hearts and modest home to the baby, naming her Zaiton. Raised amidst the warmth of Wahab’s household, and next door to her biological family, Zaiton blossomed into a spirited and independent young soul. Despite the challenges of childhood, and the occasional whispers and taunts that made her doubt her roots, Zaiton navigated them with courage, strengthened by the support and love of her siblings, whether related by blood or chosen. After all, family is love.

Through Zaiton's journey, The Year of the Tiger celebrates the power of love and family, offering a heartwarming tale inspired by the author's mother. Unlike conventional adoption narratives marked by feelings of displacement and unbelonging, Zaiton's story is one of gratitude and abundance, showcasing the richness of having not one, but two families who cherish her deeply.

IN-STORE EVENT

Date: Saturday, 25 April 2026
Time: 2.30pm
Venue: Wardah Books, 58 Bussorah Street, Level 2 (Stairs only)

Free, no registration required.

Purchase book: Click here.