Subject

Trolls -- Juvenile fiction Books

Best books

Louise Imogen Guiney

Brownies and Bogles

"Brownies and Bogles" by Louise Imogen Guiney is a whimsical collection of folklore and fairy tales written in the late 19th century. The book explores the enchanting world of fairies, brownies, and bogles, delving into their characteristics and the roles they play in human life. At its core, it features a discussion on various types of fairy creatures, focusing particularly on Brownies who assist humans with household tasks, and their mischievous counterparts, the bogles. At the start of the narrative, the author defines fairies, contrasting modern interpretations with more romanticized historical views. Guiney introduces the idea of fairies being once revered as noble characters and calls upon various folkloric beliefs to illustrate the complexity of fairy lore. She reflects on how these beings have been perceived across different cultures, enlightening readers on the playful and sometimes troublesome nature of these enchanted creatures. The opening portion sets a vibrant tone, inviting readers into a magical realm filled with fascinating lore while hinting at the joy and mischief that these fairies can bring to both mortals and their own kind.

Lewis Roth

Baartock

"Baartock" by Lewis Roth is a children's novel likely written in the late 20th century. The story centers around Baartock, a seven-year-old troll, who is excited about his first day of scaring humans but unexpectedly finds himself in a human school instead. The narrative unfolds as Baartock navigates his feelings of being an outsider in a new environment, encountering adults and peers who don't quite understand him. The opening of the book introduces Baartock waiting by the roadside, feeling disheartened after failing to scare anyone on his important first day. We see his initial confidence transform into confusion and sadness when he meets Mr. Fennis, a teacher who takes him to school instead of home. Despite his desire to scare people, Baartock's experiences highlight themes of misunderstanding, acceptance, and the joys and challenges of adapting to new situations. As the story progresses, Baartock’s unique perspective as a troll adds a whimsical touch to his interactions with human children and adults, illustrating his journey to balance his trollish identity with the demands of the human world.

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