
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the 'gimme' spirit of the holidays or having a hard time understanding that others might act out because they feel left out. It is a gentle tool for addressing the impulse to hoard or grab without thinking of others. In this snowy tale, Treva discovers that the mischievous trolls stealing her family's Christmas decorations aren't trying to be mean: they just have no idea how to celebrate. By teaching them about the joy of giving, she transforms their greed into gratitude. This story is perfect for children ages 4 to 8, offering a beautifully illustrated lesson in empathy and the true meaning of the season. Parents will appreciate how it models patience and teaching over punishment when dealing with difficult peers.
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Sign in to write a reviewThe trolls steal items, which provides a teaching moment about impulse control.
The book is entirely secular and metaphorical. It deals with theft and greed through the lens of fantasy creatures who lack social education. The resolution is hopeful and focuses on behavioral change through kindness.
A 6-year-old who is currently struggling with 'mine!' syndrome or a child who has been frustrated by a peer's 'bad' behavior and needs help seeing the person (or troll) behind the actions.
Read it cold. The intricate 'border' illustrations by Jan Brett often provide a 'B-story' or foreshadowing that can be fun to point out to the child during a second reading. A parent might choose this after seeing their child refuse to share a new toy or after hearing their child complain about a 'mean' kid at school who seems to always take things.
Younger children (4-5) will focus on the magic of the trolls and the 'bad' behavior of stealing. Older children (7-8) will better grasp the nuance that the trolls are acting out because they are lonely and confused, not just 'evil.'
Jan Brett's signature Scandinavian-inspired artwork creates a high-stakes visual world that makes the emotional transformation feel legendary and significant, rather than just a simple moral lesson.
Treva and her dog Tuffi notice that Christmas items are disappearing from their farm. When Treva heads into the snowy woods, she discovers Mig and Tig, two trolls who are bickering and hoarding the stolen items. Treva realizes they don't understand Christmas, so she patiently explains the concept of giving. She eventually gives them her own special stuffed animal, which triggers a change in the trolls, leading to a heartwarming holiday exchange.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.