Christina Davis

Tilly the Hopping Troll by Christina Davis is a delightful and engaging children's book set in the whimsical Enchanted Rainbow Realm. The story follows Tilly, a young troll who lives with her family in the Troll Forest. As the youngest sibling, Tilly is often left with the smallest bridge, which she dreams of upgrading by winning a game of tag against her brothers. However, her brothers have magical shoes that give them an unfair advantage, leaving Tilly at a disadvantage.

When Tilly discovers a pair of teleportation high-tops at the Flea Market, she sees them as her ticket to finally winning the game and claiming a bigger bridge. However, her impulsive shopping habits lead her to spend her savings on shiny jewelry that she doesn’t need, leaving her unable to afford the shoes. This moment of disappointment teaches Tilly—and young readers—the importance of prioritizing needs over wants and avoiding impulse purchases.

The story is both entertaining and educational, with relatable themes for children and parents alike. Davis cleverly uses Tilly’s journey to impart lessons about financial literacy, goal-setting, and the value of hard work. Tilly’s determination to save up for the shoes after her initial setback is inspiring, and her eventual success demonstrates the rewards of perseverance and planning. The inclusion of discussion prompts and activities at the end of the book further reinforces these lessons, making it an excellent resource for parents and educators to encourage critical thinking, practical life skills, and financial literacy.

Jane Sparks’ illustrations are vibrant and whimsical, perfectly complementing the enchanting world of the Troll Forest. This book is highly recommended for children aged 4-8, as well as parents and educators looking for a creative way to introduce financial literacy and decision-making skills. Tilly’s story is a charming reminder that with patience, hard work, and focus, we can achieve our goals and make thoughtful choices that lead to lasting happiness.

Star rating: 5 Stars

Summary: A heartwarming and educational tale, combining fantasy and practical life lessons.