Too Small Tola
#1 of 3 in Too Small Tola Series
What’s inside...
Tola may be small, but she's very determined. Three delightful stories about Too Small Tola, a young girl who, though small, is very determined. Tola 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. Tola proves to be stronger than she seems when she goes to market with Grandmummy and manages to carry home a basket full of yams and vegetables, chilli peppers and fish. When the taps in the flat don't work, it's Tola who brings water from the well, and it's Tola who saves the day when Mr Abdul, the tailor, needs his goods to be delivered quickly. Too Small Tola is a wonderful new character in the world of children's books by multi-award-winning children's writer and storyteller Atinuke. Three delightful tales from a renowned Nigerian storyteller introduce a chapter-book heroine who is every bit as mighty as she is small.
Discussion points
How does Tola show courage and resourcefulness throughout the story?
What challenges does Tola face and how does she overcome them?
How do Tola’s relationships with her family members influence her actions?
What did you learn about life in Lagos? How does it compare to where we live?
Why is it important to help others like Tola does?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight Tola's moments of bravery and resourcefulness to discuss the importance of perseverance and creativity in problem-solving.
Compare and contrast Tola’s experiences with those of your child, deepening their understanding and empathy for Tola’s life.
Encourage your child to draw parallels between Tola’s relationships with her family and their own relationships, discussing the influence that family can have on one's actions.
Explore the cultural aspects of Lagos presented in the book by using maps, pictures, or music from the area to supplement the reading experience.
Prompt discussions about community and helping others by asking your child how they can apply Tola’s actions in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: Tola, the protagonist, showcases resilience in the face of daily challenges due to her small size. She continually strives to prove her capabilities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain determined and keep working towards their goals, regardless of hurdles they face in their environments.
Example Lesson: Empathy and kindness
Explanation: Throughout the story, Tola demonstrates empathy by understanding and helping her family and neighbors in their times of need.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be considerate of others' feelings and situations and to offer help without expecting anything in return.
Example Lesson: Importance of family and community
Explanation: The narrative highlights Tola’s interactions and dependency with her family and neighbors, showing the strength of community bonds.
Real-World Application: Children are taught the value of maintaining good relationships with those around them, enhancing community connectivity and support.
Example Lesson: Resourcefulness
Explanation: Tola uses her wit and available resources to solve problems that her family faces, demonstrating clever problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to think creatively about using what they have at their disposal to navigate challenges in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Equal worth of all individuals
Explanation: Despite Tola being small and often underestimated, she consistently contributes significantly to her community, representing the idea that everyone has unique value.
Real-World Application: This story teaches children that everyone, no matter their size or age, is capable and valuable, promoting self-worth and respect for others.