Tolly

by Maryanna Hoggatt

"How far would you go to make a dream come true?" Tolly is a battle raccoon who will travel far and wide to protect our dreams. One day, when a Dream is born, Tolly must deliver it to the top of Heart Mountain. He has to be the bravest of the brave to defend the Dream from its scariest foes, Fear and Doubt. Along the way, Tolly also discovers he needs more than courage to help the Dream survive – he needs someone to believe in him. In her debut picture book, Maryanna Hoggatt seamlessly combines photography, sculptures, puppetry, and set building to make her charming characters come alive in cinematic style. This is a magical tale about finding the courage to believe in yourself.

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

Published April 11, 2017

About the author

Portland, Ore.-based artist and author of debut children's book, TOLLY.

Reviews

[Julie Swearingen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet and hopeful story. Truly a book that adults will love to read to kids. The art is breathtaking and you can almost imagine Tolly as a live-action movie.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tolly is a children’s picture book that truly separates itself from the pack. Instead of using traditional methods for illustrating picture books that authors often use such as watercolors, digital art, or oil paints, Maryanna Hoggatt uses a blend of photography and sculpture to create a world like no other that both children and their parents will admire. Tolly the brave battle racoon is a Dream Protector on a courageous mission to bring a new dream to Heart Mountain. It’s an exciting journey through a beautiful world not to be missed.

[Brittney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tolly is actually the cutest. The first time I read through I definitely spent my time looking at the words and glancing at the pictures. For the second read I flipped the two and realized just how much detail was on every page. Maryanna Hoggatt did an absolutely beautiful job designing and executing each scene on Tolly's adventure.
I can see young kids and adults, alike, enjoying this picture book for its beautiful art and encouraging message.

[Jason Mekkam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have a kid nephew that I was going to give this book too. Before I could do so though my girlfriend read it and wants it. Now I'm going to have to get another copy. Because Tolly's tale is one that resonates with children as well as adult. Beautifully illustrated, Tolly is about achieving your dreams, fighting, self doubt and anxiety along the way. It's a cute book that makes you feel all warm and cuddly inside. Great book. Recommended highly for nephews and girlfriends alike.

[Bryn Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is stunning! It’s so unique, instead of drawings the artist uses photographs of adorable, and beautifully made little sets. Tolly is a 3D statue type of art piece. With a simple but heartwarming story about being brave enough to follow dreams and not let fears and doubts get in the way, this book would be a lovely addition to any child’s bookshelf. Plus Hoggatt uses the singular ‘they’! This makes me so happy, more books should have the singular 'they.'

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tolly is an adorable children's book with amazing artwork, which happens to be sculptures made by Hoggatt herself. Kids will love it!

[Clare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tolly is a precious book with gorgeous artwork and an inspirational and fun story. It's sure to be a favorite of both children and adults. I leave it out on my ottoman, and guests always pick it up to take a look. You can tell a lot of care and work went into this novel — I recently discovered that Hoggatt even has a blog where you can watch behind-the-scenes videos and photos. Definitely pick up a copy if you have the chance!