the tiny thing
Written by Ellen Tarlow
Illustrated by Lauren Stringer
Published by Beach Lane Books/Simon & Schuster, 2026
A mole stumbles upon a tiny thing and finds his life forever changed by the power of imagination and finding self-confidence in this tender and enchanting picture book.
When shy Mole is out walking one day, he sees a tiny thing. He brings it to his burrow and immediately sets out to make it feel at home. Mole, who had never been noticed by the squirrels or included by the birds, finds an imaginary friend in the tiny thing. Soon, he feels brave enough to share songs, secrets, and stories—and even bring the tiny thing out into the world!
Sometimes, even the tiniest of encouragement is all that’s needed to branch out and make new friends.
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Buy this book at your local bookstore or online: Bookshop and Amazon.
You can also buy it from Ellen’s favorite local bookstore in Brooklyn, NY, Greenlight Bookstore or in Woodstock, NY at The Golden Notebook.
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Reviews
“In this tale of self-expression, kindness, and growth, a mole discovers a dandelion puff while out on a walk and, enchanted, picks it up and takes it home. The small mole, often unseen by other animals, feels a connection with this “tiny thing” and makes an imaginary friend of it, dressing it up and sharing food and secrets. The confidence he gains from this social connection unlocks Mole’s creativity. He goes above ground and uses the beautiful foliage around him to create works of art that attract notice, causing the isolated Mole’s social circle to grow. Tarlow’s heartfelt storytelling is well-matched with Stringer’s cozy, digitally created art. Illustrations are often set against white space and play with perspective; trees tower over small Mole, but as he carefully holds the tiny thing in his hand, he begins to take up more space on the page as he grows into his world.”
VERDICT: A moving story that looks at how individuals flourish under conditions where they feel secure and seen. An excellent first purchase.
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Rosemary Kiladitis
| school library journel, october 2026
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“On an autumn walk, small and quiet Mole discovers a “tiny thing”: a dandelion seed that dances across his path. With careful excitement, Mole brings the seed to his underground home, where he decorates it with a smiling face and treats it as his special guest. Fall turns to winter, and as he spends more time with his silent friend, Mole “[finds] he had a lot to say.” The tiny thing listens when he shares secrets (“I’m afraid of loud noises”), tells stories using silly voices, or sings loudly and out of tune.
When the pair emerge in spring, Mole finds the confidence to explore and express himself in fresh ways and among new friends. The protagonist’s transformation is warm, uplifting, organic, leading to an almost magical ending that emphasizes gratitude and growth.
Stringer’s illustrations feature bright, welcoming colors that naturally highlight sweet moments, like Mole’s adorable kitchen concert. The tiny thing’s steadfast presence reminds readers that new experiences can feel joyful, comfortable, and liberating, especially with a patient friend who is eager to listen. A cheerful tale of growth, starring an endearing and unique pair of friends."
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“Mole is easy to like from the very first page. Although shy, it's clear he has a very gentle demeanor and kind heart. It's hard not to smile as he gives the tiny thing a bit of personality...something I could see listeners wanting to imitate to make their own Tiny Thing. Mole's ability to express himself grows from page to page, adding fun and a touch of humor along the way. It's heartwarming to watch. The end carries a lovely message to round everything off....
It's an adorable, calming read with tons of warmth.”
Bookworm for Kids, 2026
interviews
• https://deborahkalbbooks.blogspot.com/2026/10/q-with-ellen-tarlow.html
