It's the summer of 1999 and Beijing is beginning to heat up. Construction cranes now dominate the skyline and the humidity is on the rise again. But while the Chinese capital simmers, fifteen-year-old Zhao Shuyuan is determined to forget the exam that she believes will decide her Fate in life long enough to enjoy a Saturday afternoon without school. Middle school has just ended and she and her best friend resolve to relish their newfound freedom by biking across the city.

Back at home for summer break, Shuyuan faces mixed blessings. While less study time means having more time for outings with her friends, it also comes with more chores and scolding. Although her parents' marriage has brought together both Han and Hui ethnic customs, their love for her is shown rather than spoken, and often strained by hard times as a poor family.

Shuyuan hasn't quite realized it yet, but her greatest struggle is within herself. Even if she surmounts her growing self-doubt, can she escape the other tiger that stalks her?