Lonely Troll, The
What’s inside...
The Lonely Troll is a tale that explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of community. In this story, the protagonist, a troll who has lived in isolation, embarks on a journey to find companionship and a place where he belongs. Along the way, he encounters various characters and faces challenges that test his resolve and teach him valuable lessons about life and relationships. The book is a heartwarming narrative that encourages readers to look beyond appearances and to value the connections we make with others.
Age
8-12
Length
22 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the Lonely Troll felt when he was searching for a friend?
Why is friendship important, and what qualities make someone a good friend?
What would you do if you met someone who was different from you, like the characters in the book?
Can you think of a time when you felt lonely and what helped you feel better?
How did the story change your thoughts about helping and understanding others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by discussing the Troll’s feelings and relating them to personal experiences your child may have had. Use the story as a way to talk about diversity and acceptance, highlighting how differences can enrich friendships. Ask your child to draw or describe their ideal friend, fostering creativity and deeper understanding of the story’s themes. Finally, emphasize the value of kindness and how small acts can make a big difference in someone’s life, just like in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: In 'The Lonely Troll,' the story portrays the troll’s feelings of isolation and the kindness of new friends who see beyond his exterior. This helps children understand the importance of looking deeper into a person’s character.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by being kind and accepting towards peers who may appear different or who are left out, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: The book highlights how friendships have the power to transform lives, as shown by the troll's experiences with his new friends. These relationships bring happiness and a sense of belonging.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to foster friendships and value the companionship and support that friends offer in their daily interactions and activities.
Example Lesson: Courage to face fears
Explanation: The troll initially fears rejection and loneliness, but gradually learns to overcome these fears with the encouragement of his friends. This shows the importance of bravery in confronting personal fears.
Real-World Application: Children learn to tackle their own fears and anxieties, whether it’s trying out new activities, or making new friends, thereby building their confidence and resilience.
Example Lesson: Impact of acts of kindness
Explanation: Each small act of kindness shown to the troll by others significantly improves his life and outlook, demonstrating the ripple effect of positive actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that their actions, however small, can have a positive impact on others' lives, encouraging them to be kind and considerate in their daily interactions.