In this third installment about Tola’s life with her siblings and Grandmommy in Lagos, Nigeria, Tola’s community navigates the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the first chapter, Tola (Black) has a breakthrough realization: “Multiplication and division are the same! … But backward!” The next morning, a lockdown is implemented to slow the spread of a new “killer illness.” Tola’s sister will stay with her teacher, who has a computer she can use for her studies; her brother will stay with his boss, so he can continue to work; Tola will stay with Grandmommy. In chapter two, Tola watches their food supplies diminish day by day. Fortunately, their neighbor finds Tola a job as a housegirl for Mr. and Mrs. Diamond, a wealthy celebrity couple. Though it’s a difficult transition, Tola quickly establishes herself as a hard worker. In the final chapter, Tola’s newfound math skills come into play when she exposes the diesel fuel provider’s practice of overcharging the Diamond household. The Diamonds give Tola a cash bonus for her good work, and she can return home with Grandmommy, giving the story a hopeful ending after a series of realistic challenges. Atinuke pens captivating stories with emotional honesty, here tackling the impact of the pandemic and economic disparity while keeping the focus on Tola’s daily life. (Ages 7-9)

It’s a strange, scary time for Too Small Tola when a new virus separates her family, but Atinuke’s small-but-mighty heroine proves once again how wise, kind, and resourceful she can be.

In ordinary times, Tola lives in an apartment in Lagos, Nigeria, with her clever sister, Moji; her sporty brother, Dapo; and bossy Grandmommy. Tola is so happy! But news of a new virus—and a lockdown, too—sends Moji away in one direction and Dapo in another. Then, when Grandmommy can no longer go out to work, Tola goes instead. She works for the wealthy Diamond family and makes new friends among the household staff. But even the wealthy have problems—and only Too Small Tola is big enough to rise to solve them. Brimming with genuine emotion and ultimately reassuring, Atinuke’s third book to feature the brave and endearing Tola, illustrated with zeal by Onyinye Iwu, shines with the light of resilience and hope.