Families who loved The Ugly Troll by Pam Holden often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with being misunderstood or when you want to help them see that every story has two sides. While many fairy tales rely on clear-cut villains, this retelling of the Three Billy Goats Gruff shifts the perspective to the troll, helping young readers practice cognitive empathy. It is perfect for children who are starting to navigate social nuances and the idea of fairness in their own lives. The story explores Jeremy the Troll's experience as he deals with noisy neighbors and his own grumpy reputation. Through simple language and engaging illustrations, it introduces the concept that someone who seems 'mean' might actually just be frustrated or lonely. For parents of 4 to 6 year olds, this is a gentle tool for discussing how our actions affect others and how we can resolve conflicts with kindness rather than shouting.