A parent might reach for this book when their child feels overlooked or underestimated due to their size, age, or quiet nature. This charming chapter book follows Tola, a small but mighty girl living in Lagos, Nigeria. In three interconnected stories, Tola uses her cleverness and determination to help her family and prove that being small does not mean you cannot have a big impact. The book beautifully explores themes of self-confidence, family love, and resilience, all within a warm and vibrant cultural setting. It is an excellent choice for newly independent readers, offering a gentle, affirming message that quiet strength and intelligence are superpowers too.
The book gently touches on socioeconomic differences and financial hardship. Tola's family does not have a car, and she must work to afford things she needs. This is presented in a direct, matter-of-fact way, focusing not on what the family lacks but on their resourcefulness and love. The resolution is always hopeful, emphasizing ingenuity and family bonds over material possessions. The approach is secular.
Ideal Reader
A 6 to 8 year old who is sensitive, observant, and sometimes feels overshadowed by older siblings or more boisterous peers. It's perfect for a child just beginning to read chapter books who needs a story with a relatable, capable protagonist to build their own reading confidence.
Parent Prep
No prep is needed. The cultural context of Lagos, Nigeria, is woven into the story naturally and is easily understood. A parent could choose to look at a map of Nigeria with their child to provide geographic context, but it is not required to enjoy the stories. A parent hears their child say, "I'm too little to do that," or "My sister gets to do everything." The parent sees their child hesitate to join in with peers because they feel they will not measure up.
Age Experience
A 6-year-old will enjoy the straightforward plot and Tola's clever solutions, connecting with the "I'm small but I can do it" theme. An 8 or 9-year-old will pick up on the more subtle social dynamics, like the class differences between Tola and the "three fine girls," and appreciate the depiction of family responsibility and community.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many underdog stories that feature a loud, dramatic triumph, Tola's victories are quiet, internal, and based on practical intelligence and perseverance. The book's specific setting in Lagos provides a vibrant, positive, and authentic cultural window that is still rare in early chapter books for this age group, normalizing a non-Western urban experience.
Read plot summary
This early chapter book contains three slice-of-life stories set in Lagos, Nigeria, centered on a young girl named Tola. Tola is the youngest and smallest in her family, a fact her siblings often point out. In the first story, she uses her math skills to help her Grandmommy carry a heavy load of groceries home from the market. In the second, she encounters three wealthy, well-dressed girls on Easter Sunday and navigates feelings of otherness with grace. In the final story, she is tasked with a very important delivery for a tailor, proving her reliability and perseverance.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
In the first story, Tola uses a math trick to figure out how to carry Grandmommy's shopping. What is a time you used your brain to solve a problem that seemed too big for you?
2
The three fine girls have fancy clothes and a car, but Tola finds her own way to celebrate Easter. What are some of your favorite family traditions that don't cost any money?
3
Tola's sister Moji sometimes calls her 'Too Small Tola'. How do you think this nickname makes Tola feel? Do you think it's meant to be teasing or mean?
4
Why was it so important for Tola to deliver the party dress perfectly for Mr. Oga the tailor? What does this job tell us about Tola's character?
