Molly and the Runaway Trolley
What’s inside...
Molly and the Runaway Trolley by Ashley Bartley is a children's book that explores the theme of anxiety through the story of Molly, a young girl who experiences intense anxiety that manifests as an uncontrollable streetcar ride. With the help of a grandfatherly trolley operator, Molly learns self-regulation strategies to manage her anxiety, such as deep breathing, stepping back from worry, and using her senses to ground herself. The book provides practical coping mechanisms for anxiety and includes a special page for adults on empowering children to manage stress. This book is the first in the Self-Management and Me series, aimed at PreK-5 students.
Age
5-11
Length
31 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think Molly felt when she saw the runaway trolley for the first time?
How do you think the story would change if Molly had made a different decision?
Why do you think it's important for Molly to help others in the story?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone like Molly did?
What would you do if you were in Molly's place?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions of the characters, making the story more relatable for your child.
Pause after exciting moments in the story to give your child a chance to guess what might happen next.
After reading, connect the story to your child’s life by discussing similar situations they might have faced or could face.
Encourage your child to draw a scene from the book, helping them visualize and interpret the story creatively.
Ask your child to imagine a different ending to the story and describe it, enhancing their critical thinking and creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: Molly takes charge of the runaway trolley, demonstrating her ability to handle unexpected situations responsibly.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of taking responsibility in challenging situations, whether it's doing household chores or making decisions at school.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Molly collaborates with other characters to stop the trolley, highlighting the power of working together.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the value of cooperation and teamwork in accomplishing tasks and solving problems with peers.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Faced with a daunting challenge, Molly shows courage in her actions, inspiring readers.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to face their fears and tackle challenges head-on, whether it's trying out for a sports team or standing up for what's right.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving
Explanation: Molly's quick thinking in devising a plan to stop the trolley teaches strategic problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to analyze situations and think critically to come up with solutions, useful in academics and social interactions.
Example Lesson: Civic-mindedness
Explanation: Molly's concern for the safety of the town's residents demonstrates her awareness and care for her community.
Real-World Application: This instills a sense of community and the importance of looking out for one another, applicable in school and neighborhood activities.