The Storybarn Selects… From The Reader Bookshelf

Our exploration of this year's Reader Bookshelf is well underway and we've asked another member of our Children & Young People Team to talk about their favourite children's book from the collection.

This week, Storybarn Coordinator Mariana Sequera, shares her thoughts on Who Will Comfort Toffle? A Tale of Moomin Valley by Tove Jansson Lee.

Tove Jansson invites us in this book to the Moomin universe, but this time we are not following the Moomins’ adventures. This time we follow Toffle, a shy and lonely little creature longing for love and company, struggling with nigh fears. 

This world, with its own fascinating mythology, seems difficult to understand to Toffle, who embarks on an adventure outside his home to find a balm to cure his fears and sadness. Who will help him alleviate these overwhelming feelings? 

Toffle sees beautiful new places in his journey, and looks into the world of other creatures who live differently, who seem to cope and behave differently to him. Maybe he does not have to be so afraid and lonely.  

Toffle also stumbles upon a possibility during those travels. One that might change his outlook and disposition. 

This beautifully illustrated book makes the reader think about loneliness, fear, courage, and hope. Its illustrations and mythology are out of this world! It is a book to keep nearby for when things get difficult and we need to understand our inner Toffle. He will find comfort in these pages.