The Boy, the Troll, and the Chalk

This touching picture book tells the story of a brave boy who challenges assumptions about a 'fierce troll' living in a cave near the playground. Through the simple act of leaving chalk drawings, the boy initiates a wordless dialogue with the troll, who turns out to be another lonely boy. It's a gentle tale that beautifully illustrates the power of art, empathy, and perseverance in overcoming fear and fostering unexpected friendships. Parents will appreciate its message about looking beyond appearances and the importance of reaching out to those who seem different or isolated. Ideal for ages 4-8, but with themes that resonate with older children too.

A touching picture book about the power of art and imagination Everybody knew that a big fierce troll lived in the cave. "Leave me alone!" it yelled. So everybody did. But one child cannot turn his back on the troll at the edge of the playground. One day, he takes his chalk up to the mouth of the cave. He draws a flower with every petal colored in but one and leaves the chalk behind. The next day, the flower has been completed. Day by day, the boy and the troll finish each other's drawings, until they each draw a portrait showing a boy holding hands with a fierce, scary troll. "But you're not a troll," says the boy. "You're a boy--just like me." Patience, kindness, and the power of art win out in the end: the two boys wordlessly draw together. Soon all the other children gather to join in with the game. Everyone forgets that there was a troll inside the cave. Because outside the cave, there is so much to draw. Award-winning artist David Litchfield's illustrations bring life and color to this gentle tale of hope and friendship by Anne Booth.