Most of us have heard about trolls. They’re the mean, ugly, old beasts who like to scare people. They can be giant or dwarf, but the main thing is that they’re old and scary. But, have you ever wondered where these scary old trolls came from? They must have been young at some point. They certainly weren’t born old. Welcome the baby trolls: Horatio, Saul, and Grizelda. Saul claims he can be mean and scary and Grizelda claims to be a princess (though Saul says she’s not). All they want to do is get everyone to sign their petition to recognize them. Even though they’re babies (well, Grizelda claims to be almost two), they want to have their say, they want to be recognized, adored, perhaps even featured in movies. They like to dream big. And, in spite of what Saul claims, they’re not at all scary. Quite simply, they just want to be your friend.

Justine Avery’s picture book story, Baby Trolls Get a Bad Rap (Underrated Babies Book 1), is a rather cute story. Told in graphic format with bubble-dialogue, the plot develops as three baby trolls introduce themselves and their cause: the petition they want everyone to sign so they can be recognized. After all, everyone wants to be recognized, even babies. The story evolves mostly through dialogue with a few catchphrases to heighten awareness of the developing theme. The illustrations, by Daria Yudina, depict cute little baby trolls in pastel colors, which helps develop the plot and make young readers aware of how cute baby trolls can be. An interesting way to introduce young readers to the concept that everyone matters, no matter how old and in spite of all their differences.

Baby Trolls Get a Bad Rap (Underrated Babies Book 1) by Justine Avery is an illustrated children’s book about trolls—actually three of them: Horatio, Grizelda, and Saul. Their aim is to convince the young reader that they are important in this world and they deserve attention too. The big bad trolls get lots of attention, so why not them? They explain their reasoning in cute and funny ways, again always directed at the reader. I found this book unique in that instead of presenting a story, the reader finds a trio of characters who try to convince the reader to sign a petition. They start off by just assuming the said reader will do what they ask, but when that doesn’t happen, they go directly to Plan B and start over. And this plan goes into more or less detail as to why the reader should sign the petition, all the while maintaining their level of cuteness and humor.

First of all, the professional artwork matches the level I would expect in a book for this age group. It’s filled with detail, color, and humor that keeps the reader wanting more. But second and perhaps most important, is the way in which they go about presenting their case for equal rights. They don’t demand, they request. They nicely list their reasons for their requests, and back it up with respect to the reader, and then ask “Please”. The way in which Baby Trolls Get a Bad Rap by Justine Avery goes about helping people to ask, instead of demand, will help young readers themselves to learn politeness and respect when they want something as well. Highly recommended.