The Trolls

by Polly Horvath

This was another instance where I got my “suggested reading” lists mixed up. I thought this one was from the suggested children’s fantasy – but it is in fact from the 6th grade reading list. Imagine my disappointment when I found the book really had little to do with trolls and nothing to do with fantasy. It’s not a bad book, just kind of…dull, given my expectations.

The Trolls is about three siblings whose aunt comes to babysit them while the parents are on vacation, and the aunt tells stories from her childhood. The dad seldom told the kids anything about growing up, so it was an adventure for them to hear. Not so interesting for me to read. Honestly, I’m recommending you skip this one. If you want to hear childhood stories, read A Long Way From Chicago.