TILLY'S BIG PROBLEM

Tilly has a problem in her life and does not know where to turn for help.

With sprightly, purple pigtails and colorful, mismatched fashion, Tilly looks like a joyful young tot. But something is making her sad and worried. When she confides in Ned, her best friend, his advice is sound: “A big person can help when you have a big, huge, enormous problem like this.” But whom should Tilly tell? Armed with binoculars, a watch, a notebook, and a pencil—along with a few lollipops for energy—Tilly and Ned set off on a secret mission to observe the adults around them, carefully noting who might be a good listener. Four candidates are chosen, all who work at the school. Each adult finds an anonymous note asking how they might help with a big problem. Based on the responses, Tilly is able to choose the perfect confidant (epistolary communication is an added bonus). The narrative focuses on Tilly and Ned, who are both white, along with each of the four adults, but even in the crowd shots, there is only one hint at slightly darker skin. Exemplary points for tackling a tough issue but not for inclusion.

Message-laden but creative spin on finding a trusted adult.