We are thrilled to be taking part in the blog tour for Too Small Tola and The Three Fine Girls by Atinuke and illustrated by Onyinye Iwu. One of the reasons we started Glorious Reads was to share diverse books that showcased children just living their lives. Books featuring “issues” of course have their place but there are nowhere near enough books with Black children just living, experiencing joy and going on adventures. I get so excited when I do discover books like this.
As a Black woman who grew up without ever reading stories about children that looked like me, I’ve made it a priority to ensure my children always have a steady stream of books featuring children that not only look like them but also share aspects of their culture. Our family is diverse, with African, Caribbean and South American heritage so I’m always excited to find books that relate to these cultures. Therefore when we were sent a copy of Too Small Tola by Walkers Books, not only did the kids read it but I read it too! And oh how we all loved it.
Official Blurb:
Tola may be small, but she’s very determined!
Three charming stories about a young girl who lives in a flat in Lagos with her sister, Moji, who is very clever; her brother, Dapo, who is very fast; and Grandmummy, who is very bossy. Too Small Tola is just the right size to fit under the bed and rescue Grandmummy’s most prized possession when it goes missing. Her abilities in maths prove to be very helpful when Grandmummy becomes ill. In the title story, though Grandmummy can’t afford to buy Tola new clothes, Tola turns out to be just as fine as the three fine girls she so greatly admires. A book full of heart and humour by multi-award-winning writer and storyteller Atinuke.
For readers aged 7+
Illustrations by Onyinye Iwu
Here is Lily’s review:
TOO SMALL TOLA AND THE THREE FINE GIRLS is an amazing book featuring 3 short stories by @atinukeauthor accompanied by brilliant illustrations by @onichum. I really liked how these stories display that even if you are short or small, you shouldn’t let it stop you from being amazing in your own unique way.
Tola’s adventures are exciting but sometimes sad like in real life. Luckily things always work out in the end.
I love that this book oozed with culture as young Tola faces challenges headfirst. My favourite bit was Tola having her hair braided by her Grandmother. My mum does mine all the time and it is nice to see a character with the same hair as me!
Help Tola find Grandmummy’s earrings
As part of the blog tour we were given an exclusive maze game for you to try. Tola is such a helpful girl. Can you help her find Grandmummy’s earrings?
Too Small Tola and the Three Fine Girls is available to order online through Amazon or through your local independent bookshop.