Small-Girl Toni and the Quest for Gold

October 9, 2023
A child seeks to change the world in this allusive picture book loosely based on the art and life of Toni Morrison (1931–2019). Though townspeople frequently scoff at her “outlandish stories” and big dreams, Small-Girl Toni believes that her tales can make a difference: “Grown-ups say that stories can’t save jobs... but if my stories have gotten me sent to the principal’s office, and to bed without supper, maybe they can lead me to a whole heap of treasure.” As Small-Girl Toni leads her siblings in search of gold, Anatol, making her picture book debut, incorporates components of Morrison’s works. The children’s journey yields little in the way of the aimed-for treasure, but their arrival home reveals “the warmth of true wealth” and offers a new lens on the gold they gathered along the way. If references to Morrison’s oeuvre feel aimed at adult audiences rather than young readers, digitally rendered, watercolor-textured art from Figueroa (You Will Do Great Things) marries cool and copper tones, revealing moments of gold throughout this picture book about where treasure lies. A biographical note and references to Toni Morrison’s works concludes. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Alexandra Levick, Writers House. Illustrator’s agent: Natascha Morris, Tobias Literary.

Starred review from October 1, 2023
A charming tale in tribute to the life and imagination of storytelling powerhouse Toni Morrison. Small-Girl Toni is certain that stories--her stories--can change the world. Many adults in her predominantly Black community disagree, but Small-Girl Toni does what real-life Morrison will become known for when faced with doubt from critics--she tells stories anyway. Like stories about treasure in her town to draw her siblings into a hunt. The foursome pick blackberries as they search for doubloons in lonely Ms. Solomon's backyard; they offer to walk Widow Sersee's dogs in the hope the canines will sniff out long-buried gold; they peer enthusiastically through the candy shop window at golden treats, only to be rebuffed by the white store owner. All the while Small-Girl Toni spins her tales, and as the siblings arrive home glumly with no treasure, she helps them see the gold they found along the way--"It's all in how you tell the story." Bold softness is as much a signature for Figueroa's illustrations as it is for Morrison herself. Bright, rich spreads celebrate the deep roots of Toni's small town and the exuberant heights of her story landscapes. Readers will return again and again to search the pages--younger ones to find the different examples of gold and older ones to find Anatol's creative nods to Morrison's writings, referenced in the appended biographical note. Glowing and overflowing with the legacy of the author who inspired it. (Picture book. 4-8)

COPYRIGHT(2023) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

January 1, 2024

PreS-Gr 2-In a love letter to Toni Morrison, Anatol's debut is an inspiring piece of fiction. Toni lives with her family in small-town Ohio in the early 20th century. Her imaginative stories get her into all sorts of scrapes, but that doesn't stop Toni. She adventures with her friends one day to hunt for gold, only to realize all the different ways they were blessed with golden experiences throughout their day. As detailed in the back matter, Anatol weaves many references to Morrison's work in the characters, plot, and setting. Figueroa's signature, emotive style with layered colors and soft edges complements the story well, particularly in scenes featuring weather and plant life. Notably, the picture book is successful as an ode to Morrison and as a message of creativity, community, and hope. Readers do not need previous knowledge of Morrison to enjoy this lovely volume. VERDICT Vibrant and joyous; recommended for general purchase.-Taylor Worley

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.