
Reach for this book when your older child is struggling with the disruptive arrival of a new sibling and expressing 'wishes' that the baby would just go away. This folk-inspired tale follows Peter, a young boy who initially resents his loud, demanding baby sister. When his frustrated wish comes true and trolls swap the baby for a changeling, Peter is forced to confront the reality of his feelings. It is a powerful tool for validating the 'taboo' emotions of sibling rivalry while ultimately affirming the deep, protective bond between brothers and sisters. Ideal for children ages 4 to 8, this story uses the safety of fantasy to help children process the guilt and responsibility that come with being an older sibling.
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Sign in to write a reviewThemes of sibling rejection and the guilt of wishing a family member gone.
The book deals with child abduction (via folklore changeling tropes) and sibling resentment. The approach is metaphorical and secular, rooted in traditional Scandinavian-style folklore. The resolution is hopeful and reinforces family loyalty.
A child who is currently 'acting out' against a new infant at home. It is perfect for a highly imaginative child who responds well to fairy-tale logic and needs a safe space to explore 'mean' thoughts without being judged.
Parents should be prepared for the 'creepy' factor of the troll baby (the changeling). Read it through once to ensure the troll imagery isn't too frightening for your specific child. No heavy context is needed as it follows standard fairy-tale structures. A child saying 'I wish the baby was never born' or 'I want to give the baby away.'
Younger children (4-5) will focus on the scary trolls and the 'magic' of the swap. Older children (7-8) will more clearly perceive the subtext of Peter's guilt and the weight of his responsibility to fix his mistake.
Unlike many 'new baby' books that are sweet and gentle, this book acknowledges the 'darker' side of sibling jealousy through the lens of a high-stakes adventure, making the older sibling the hero of the story.
Peter is frustrated by his crying baby sister and wishes the trolls would take her. When his wish is granted and a 'troll baby' is left in her place, Peter realizes his mistake. He embarks on a quest into the mountains to find the troll cave, outwit the creatures, and rescue his real sister.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.