PHILADELPHIA, PA — Philadelphia Zoo is celebrating the release of A Family for Zoya: The True Story of an Endangered Cub, a nonfiction children’s book that recounts the extraordinary survival of an Amur tiger with the help of zoo professionals and conservation partners.
Zoya, born in July 2017 to mother Koosaka and father Grom, was the lone survivor of her litter but was rejected by her mother. Philadelphia Zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams stepped in to provide round-the-clock care before arranging her transfer to Oklahoma City Zoo. There, in an unprecedented move, she was introduced to Lola, a Sumatran tiger that had recently given birth to three cubs. After hours of uncertainty, Lola accepted Zoya, allowing the cub to nurse and thrive alongside her foster siblings.
The book, authored by Debra Kim Wolf, highlights Zoya’s journey while introducing young readers to themes of courage, connection, and the importance of conservation. Wolf is donating 100% of her proceeds to the Tiger Conservation Campaign. “Zoya’s journey reminds us that small acts of kindness, for animals or people, can make a big difference,” Wolf said.
Zoo officials said Zoya’s survival demonstrates the impact of collaboration between institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. “Zoya’s story in particular shows how humans can work together to save wildlife,” said Philadelphia Zoo President and CEO Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman. Senior veterinary technician Jenna Heinze, who was part of the team that cared for Zoya, called the experience “living proof that humans can work together to save and protect animals.”
After her successful fostering, Zoya moved in 2019 to Roosevelt Park Zoo in North Dakota as part of a breeding program. She has since produced two litters of cubs, the most recent born in May 2025.
Philadelphia Zoo will host a public event on Wednesday, August 27, at 11 a.m., featuring a book signing, meet-and-greet, and tiger feeding with the author. Admission is included with a regular ticket. The book is available at zoo gift shops, online, and during the event.
Currently, the zoo is home to four Amur tigers—females Koosaka and Rory, and male brothers Wiz and Dimitri—who can be seen at the Big Cat Falls exhibit.
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