As young kids navigate social and emotional learning, books can be an excellent resource. A new picture book from Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and New York Times best-selling author Connie Schultz is one such resource that can inspire kids with lessons of friendship, bravery, and kindness.
Lola and the Troll follows Lola, a cheerful young girl who overcomes bullying and self-doubt to discover that love and kindness are her superpowers. Sandy Rodríguez provides the watercolor illustrations, which depict emotions and real-life scenarios in a kid-friendly way.
'Lola and the Troll' | Source: Razorbill
Connie Schultz | Source: Razorbill
Sandy Rodríguez | Source: Razorbill
Lola loves school, recess, and her imaginary dog, Tank. The one thing she doesn’t love is the walk to school, where she has to pass the neighborhood bully, who wears a troll costume and mocks everything about Lola, from her hair to her shoes to her voice. Lola starts to believe the troll and tries to change who she is so that he’ll leave her alone. Fortunately, Lola seeks comfort at her favorite bookstore, The Bee’s Sneeze, where the owner, Ms. Sneesby, reminds Lola that she LOVES her curly hair, her bright smile, and her big voice. No one can take those things away from her. Lola remembers that she is brave enough to stand up for herself and others, and that she is strong enough to hold the bully accountable while also offering him friendship.
The idea for this book was born from a tweet from Schultz, which caught the attention of Casey McIntyre, an editor at Razorbill. According to the National Association of School Psychologists and Together Against Bullying, more than 33% of elementary school students reported being bullied at school. Lola and the Troll will encourage readers of all ages to embrace their strengths and stand up to bullies with empathy and kindness. Schultz also pays homage to books and a local independently-owned bookstore, sharing the magic and impact they have on readers and communities.
Lola and the Troll will be on sale Feb. 6, 2024 for $18.99 and is recommended for kids ages 4 and up.
