Summary
A mole stumbles upon a tiny thing and finds his life forever changed by the power of imagination and finding self-confidence in this tender and enchanting picture book.
When shy Mole is out walking one day, he sees a tiny thing. He brings it to his burrow and immediately sets out to make it feel at home. Mole, who had never been noticed by the squirrels or included by the birds, finds an imaginary friend in the tiny thing. Soon, he feels brave enough to share songs, s…
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781534498136 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 1534498133 |
| Author: | Ellen Tarlow, Lauren Stringer |
| Publisher: | Simon & Schuster |
| Imprint: | Beach Lane Books |
| Format: | Hardcover |
| Number of Pages: | 40 |
| Release Date: | 27 October 2026 |
| Weight: | 404g |
| Dimensions: | 10mm x 248mm x 229mm |
| Audience Age: | 4-8 |
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Critics Review
On an autumn walk, small and quiet Mole discovers a “tiny thing”: a dandelion seed that dances across his path. With careful excitement, Mole brings the seed to his underground home, where he decorates it with a smiling face and treats it as his special guest. Fall turns to winter, and as he spends more time with his silent friend, Mole “[finds] he had a lot to say.” The tiny thing listens when he shares secrets (“I’m afraid of loud noises”), tells stories using silly voices, or sings loudly and out of tune. When the pair emerge in spring, Mole finds the confidence to explore and express himself in fresh ways and among new friends. The protagonist’s transformation is warm, uplifting, organic, leading to an almost magical ending that emphasizes gratitude and growth. Stringer’s illustrations feature bright, welcoming colors that naturally highlight sweet moments, like Mole’s adorable kitchen concert. The tiny thing’s steadfast presence reminds readers that new experiences can feel joyful, comfortable, and liberating, especially with a patient friend who is eager to listen. A cheerful tale of growth, starring an endearing and unique pair of friends. – Kirkus * September 2026 *
Ellen Tarlow
Ellen Tarlow writes stories for children, including the picture books Looking for Smile, Becoming Blue, and The Tiny Thing. She has been a teacher and for many years worked as an editor of early childhood classroom materials. Ellen lives in the Hudson Valley with her husband, David, a painter.
Lauren Stringer has illustrated many celebrated picture books, including The Tiny Thing by Ellen Tarlow; Deer Dancer by Mary Lyn Ray; The Princess and Her Panther by Wendy Orr; Scarecrow and Snow, both written by Cynthia Rylant; as well as her own Winter Is the Warmest Season, When Stravinsky Met Nijinsky, The Dark Was Done, and An Abundance of Light. She lives with her family in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
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