Thistle Downe

by Gary Whitney, Molly Whitney

Life as a troll is never easy, but Tyson faces more challenges than most. When his mother s early death leaves him with an unfeeling father, he finds himself alone, unloved and uneducated. Trying to better himself through education, he s bullied about both his looks and his race. Confronting barrier after barrier, his dream of building his own home comes to life in his imagination and sustains him. Pursuing Thistle Downe, as he names his haven, drives Tyson to succeed both financially and personally and gives him a chance to win the heart of Amelia, a lovely fairy. Allegorically addressing the challenges that middle readers face and the importance of setting goals, Tyson s tale of cheerful determination provides inspiration to overcome social and educational obstacles as well as a welcome escape to a land filled with magical creatures, grand adventure and delicious sticky toffee pudding."

128 pages, Hardcover

First published December 31, 2015

Reviews

[Gay Yellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thistle Down is a new children's classic. No doubt about it. Its protagonist, a lovable little troll, suffers from a low standing in the community, but he's determined to make something good of his life. Through hard work and a virtuous heart, he overcomes all obstacles to find success and love. The lessons a child can learn by this story hit all the marks for learning how to be a good person. It's a winner, and deservedly so!

[Connie Huddleston · Rating 5 out of 5]

My children had some of those multi-colored hair trolls – I think there is still one somewhere in a drawer or box. So reading Molly and Gary’s books turned back the clock a bit and made me remember my children’s fascination with such creatures. Thistle Downe is not only a story of how one troll made something of himself, but also one of changing attitudes and redemption. The morals it presents are important and very evident, but it is the story of Ty that your children will remember. The illustrations are a lovely addition. Thistle Downe is only available in hardcover, but it will make a lovely Christmas or birthday gift for any child.

[KansasPeach · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO. FREAKING. ADORABLE. I could read this book over and over again, it was such a comforting fairytale transforming me back to stories of my childhood. A classic tale of love overcoming challenges as well as a many tales of personal growth.

[Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tyson, a young troll, has had his share of hardships since the day he was born. After Tyson's mother died in childbirth all his father could see when he looked at his son was the face of the woman he had so dearly loved. Gareth, Tyson's father, became extremely bitter and heartless, blaming the boy for the loss of his beloved wife. Gareth took Tyson away to a cave in the woods where they lived a life of isolation nearby a small village. Gareth, turning to a life of thievery, began robbing from the villagers and passers-by at a bridge near their home. The embittered troll rarely showed Tyson any love or affection. Thankfully for the boy troll, his mother had passed on to him the greatest gift of all, the gift of a positive disposition, and a wonderfully radiant smile. Following an incident at the bridge, Tyson is informed his father has been killed. Sad and alone, Tyson leaves the home of his youth to find a new place to call home. Despite many obstacles, most notably the fact that trolls are not liked by most in the village, Tyson sets his mind to better himself and ultimately to earn the respect of the father of a beautiful fairy with whom Tyson has fallen deeply in love.

Thistle Downe is an enchanting tale of trolls and fairys which is sure to cultivate the imaginations of young readers. Rife with powerful messages of love, forgiveness and the underlying lesson of overcoming obstacles through kindness and determination, this book will charm readers of all ages. Authors Molly and Gary Whitney's Thistle Downe is a wonderfully crafted story which keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. Youngsters will be inspired by Tyson and his determination, above all, to always do what is right, even when the outcome may not be in his favor.

Highly recommended for home and school libraries, Thistle Downe has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.