Too Small Tola Gets Tough

In this heartwarming chapter book, the third in the 'Too Small Tola' series, young Tola faces a global pandemic that brings a lockdown to her home in Lagos, Nigeria. When her siblings are sent away and Grandmommy can no longer work, Tola bravely takes on a job for a wealthy family. The story beautifully explores themes of resilience, family love, community, and the power of a child's resourcefulness in the face of adversity. It offers a gentle yet honest look at the challenges of a 'strange, scary time' while ultimately delivering a message of hope and empowerment for readers aged 4-11.

It’s a strange, scary time for Too Small Tola when a new virus separates her family, but Atinuke’s small-but-mighty heroine proves once again how wise, kind, and resourceful she can be. In ordinary times, Tola lives in an apartment in Lagos, Nigeria, with her clever sister, Moji; her sporty brother, Dapo; and bossy Grandmommy. Tola is so happy! But news of a new virus—and a lockdown, too—sends Moji away in one direction and Dapo in another. Then, when Grandmommy can no longer go out to work, Tola goes instead. She works for the wealthy Diamond family and makes new friends among the household staff. But even the wealthy have problems—and only Too Small Tola is big enough to rise to solve them. Brimming with genuine emotion and ultimately reassuring, Atinuke’s third book to feature the brave and endearing Tola, illustrated with zeal by Onyinye Iwu, shines with the light of resilience and hope.