Tilda Tries Again

by Tom Percival

Tilda doesn't like change. Why would she, when her life is great just the way it is? But one day, Tilda's world turns completely upside down. All of a sudden, everything is topsy-turvy, and nothing feels right. Things that were once easy now seem incredibly challenging. Everything is just so different and hard. Can Tilda discover a way to move forward and embrace all this change?

Bold, bright, and empowering, this inspiring story about coping with unexpected changes is perfect for helping children build resilience.

The Big Bright Feelings picture book series provides kid-friendly entry points into emotional intelligence topics -- from being true to yourself to dealing with worries, managing anger, and making friends. These topics can be difficult to talk about. But these books act as sensitive and reassuring springboards for conversations about mental and emotional health, positive self-image, building self-confidence, and managing feelings.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Mental Health, Emotion, Fiction, Storytime, Growth Mindset

32 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2021

About the author

Tom Percival writes and illustrates picture books (you know, for kids) as well as illustrating books written by other people. The most well known of these is probably the excellent Skulduggery Pleasant series by Derek Landy.

He grew up in a remote and beautiful part of South Shropshire. On reflection this seemed rather more remote than beautiful, owing to the fact that he lived in a small caravan without electricity, mains water or any sensible form of heating. He thinks that he’s probably one of the few people in his peer group to have learnt to read by gas lamp.
Surprisingly enough he has never been called ‘hippy’ (to the best of his knowledge)

Tom now lives in an actual house with his girlfriend and their two young sons.
His favourite colour is turquoise and his favourite number is usually seven.

Tom has three picture books available, Tobias and the Super Spooky Ghost Book, A Home for Mr Tipps, Jack's AMAZING Shadow and a fourth, Herman's Letter will be publishing in October 2012 through Bloomsbury

Reviews

[Fiza Pathan · Rating 1 out of 5]

‘Tilda Tries Again’ by Tom Percival is a really colourful book which is part of the ‘A Big Bright Feelings Book’ series but I felt it was a bit wanting in depth and most importantly originality. Because its main plot twist was plagiarised.

I realized that the parabolic story of the beetle that tries to sit upright has been plagiarised from the old Scottish legend of King Bruce who when he thought he was being defeated hid in a cave only to witness the fruitless efforts of a spider trying time and again to make its web at all costs, even to the detriment of its comfort and gaining physical pain in return. In his turn, the Scottish King gained from the persevering spider an important message about hard work and sheer stubborn perseverance and faith in God to reach one’s goal and left the cave to once again battle head-on with his foe. This time he succeeded and commended his victory upon that indomitable spider he witnessed making its web in a cave.

To be truthful, it is quite a popular parabolic story back here in India, especially in Mumbai, where based upon the story of King Bruce an ICSE school was constructed way back in the year 1847 to house Scottish and British orphans of the British East India Company and later the British Raj in Mumbai, India. It was called Bombay Scottish School, and I happen to be an alumnus of the same school. The school was built by Scottish Missionaries who when they came ashore were rumoured to have seen nothing on the shore of Mahim Bay but sand, coconut trees, and more of the sandy beach, and then strangely a lone strong Banyan Tree with very widespread roots, which still stands tall in the school till this day in 2025.

But the point is that because of that prestigious school, the story of King Bruce and the persevering Spider is a really common one in these parts. I was therefore flabbergasted to have seen this ancient story lifted off from the annals of Medieval European History to be chronicled as a key element to a modern-day story. I am aware that the creator of this book and series Tom Percival is a very reputed children’s author especially well-reputed (and rightly so) for one of my favourite books namely the Skulduggery Pleasant Series penned by Derek Landy – but I do not appreciate my school’s motto cum legend to be pinched in this matter so irreverently thank you very much! I am astonished to see that I being a thorough-bred Indian happened to be the only one to notice the plagiarized story of a famous Scottish King namely King Robert Bruce of imperial Scottish History whereas not a single person on Goodreads be it an Englishman or a Scotsman batted an eyelid at it!

Other than that, the book seemed decent enough and very colourful and fancy indeed. Whenever I was reading it or reading from it at my school Podar IB, Santacruz where I am doing my PGCITE training course and internship, the sheer beauty of the book would catch the attention of most of the PYP students of the 1st and 2nd grade. However, when we would get down to the actual story, it would not exactly ring well with the kids and then they would leave off more confused than they were before the reading. I really felt that the best of storyteller PYP teachers could really not do much with this book because though fancy looking, it lacked in quality and plot.

It was nice to see that the main protagonist had curly red hair which is a rarity usually among most PYP illustrators so a thumbs up for Tom Percival on that bit of inclusivity. However, the idea of an upside-down world did not ring a bell for the kids and neither for me. But as I reiterate the book looked gorgeous and really jaw drop worthy – just that there was no quality content to it. Not to mention any original content to it.

I only know that if it were an indie-author, the poor person by now would have been torn to shreds by the GR community for plagiarism and lack of a plot alone. I guess the Big Publishers can get away with murder sometimes … or rather all the time! But I’m a Scottishite and I’m not taking that plagiarised story lying down – I’ve based and nourished my life on that story!

One star for the fancy looks this book gave me at Podar IB.

That’s all!

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book, but I would say that the rest of Percival’s books in this series are far superior to this one. The premise of this one is just not as well thought out as the others. The message is good that we should always keep trying, but I feel that the hyperbolic decision to do absolutely nothing and then to about face and try everything because of something she saw a ladybug do is kind of unrealistic. As always though, the characterizations, facial expressions, color story, and the illustrations overall are perfection like every other Tom Percival book.

[Amy Aldridge · Rating 5 out of 5]

As soon as I saw Tom Percival had published this, I have been wanting to get my hands on a copy and it did not disappoint! This is a beautifully illustrated story that would actually as a brilliant springboard to conversations about mental health and emotional regulation. Another fantastic book from Percival!

[Claire · Rating 1 out of 5]

My kids had no idea what this was about. Way too abstract for children.

[beckys_book_blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the messages conveyed in this story: keep trying, don't give up and believe in yourself.
Tilda loves life. She has friends, toys, books. But one day her world is turned upside down and Tilda gives up. That is until she spots a little ladybird that is stuck but keeps on trying until it can fly. Tilda is inspired to be just like the Ladybird and even though she found it a bit hard and it felt strange Tilda was very brave and kept on trying!

The illustrations are fantastic and really help to convey the message of the story. I love how the pictures turned to black and white whilst Tilda was feeling unhappy and couldn't manage her feelings but gradually the colours came back as she learnt how to try again.

We often used to talk to the children about 'being resilient' when I taught in early years and KS1 and perservere when things were tricky and to not give up. This is the perfect story to introduce and reinforce all of these important learning behaviours.

The part of the story where Tilda's world is turned 'upside down' is a brilliant point in the story to help children think about and discuss their own feelings. Have you ever felt like this? What made you feel the same way? What did you do? What could Tilda do next? I really like the way the author didn't say what had happened to make Tilda unhappy as it allows children to think for themselves.

This, along with the other books in this fantastic series, is a must have book for every school book corner and children's bedroom to help them explore and understand their feelings.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good visuals, excellent use of color. Great for kids who might be dealing with big changes, whatever they may be. It doesn't specify whatever it is that turns Tilda's world upside down, but that means it's a great starting point for any big change a kiddo might be experiencing. However, if you're looking for a book on something specific or heavier like a death or illness, this might not be the best starting point.

[Rebecca R · Rating 5 out of 5]

One day Tilda's world turns upside down and suddenly everything is more difficult than it used to be. An inspiring and gorgeously-illustrated picture book about perseverance from the excellent Big Bright Feelings series.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

500,000 stars.

I needed this when I was little. Along with Percival's Ruby Finds a Worry, it would have made me feel a lot less lonely in the world when I was sad and scared, and would have helped me through.

Highly recommended for everybody.

[Jelka · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoy Tom Perival's books. This book deals with depression/being in a difficult situation in general, which I think is great to see in a children's book.

It would've been better for me if Tilda had talked to a confidant or a professional even in her recovery process.

[Dolly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book tackles the topic of drpression in kids with sensitivity and a positive outlook. The mixture of colorful and black-and-white illustrations is effective for conveying emotions.

Life is hard. Keep trying.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute story with a postitive message and fun illustrations. My daughter felt the text was a bit didactic ("too teachy" was the word she used), but nonetheless a good read.

[Libby Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this “Big Bright Feelings” series by Tom Percival. He does amazing at taking complex concepts kids experience and representing them in a way that sparks important conversations.

The kids and I loved the vibrant illustrations in Tilda’s story and discussed various situations where it may feel like the world gets flipped upside down for them.

I highly recommend this series for families prioritizing the social emotional health of their children.

[Louise (Bookmarks and Stages blog) Cannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's bright, bold and greatly positive for young children. Not every day is going to be just as your children would want it to go, it isn't possible and Tilda shows not only that, but that they can overcome that bad day and things can become brighter again. Tilda has her friends and toys and all is well with her world, but suddenly nothing feels right and for her, her whole world is turned upside down (literally, in the depiction). The pictures are all terrifically illustrated. They illustrate the narrative perfectly as children can follow both and it is a real attention grabber. The use in dramatic pictures and draining the colour out of the time when she is having a bad day, and bringing it back into full colour, when things get better only further, visually helps with the understanding of how she is feeling, when she is sad and happy. It captures children and their moods and interests very well.

 It is positive, entertaining and such a well-written story that children will relate to. What is so good is that Tilda brushes herself down and decides to try again. It also refrains from it being a sob story or self-centred story. It does in a fun way, promote reslience and that there will be a better day. It could also have a positive impact on children in a way that may just make them feel good inside and out and ready to try again, as Tilda does.

It's well written for young children, with short sharp sentences, perfect for preschool and reception or primary 1 classes as fun and discussions can come out of this book. Parents/carers etc can also have so much fun reading this to their children and whatsmore is that it is properly positive and can also be used as a bedtime story, or just curling up having a quiet time together.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

My daughter spotted this while we were looking at another book. She immediately knew that it was one from Tom Percival's series on feelings. She adores the others in this series and they have helped in lots of situations for her in the past. The books are fantastic at helping children to think about different feelings they or friends may be experiencing and are great discussion points. Tilda Tries Again is no exception. We particularly loved Tilda's fiery, curly red hair that stood out on each page. The illustrations are so cleverly done with a grey palette at times when feelings are tricky with splashes of colour. As the worries, in this case the 'topsy-turvy' feelings, are worked through the images become full colour.

I loved how the 'topsy-turvy' feeling was left open and not given any specific reasons. This is great as often we can all feel a little out of sorts but don't know why, yet if we do know why it's very much an opportunity to discuss your own thoughts and feelings rather than have a set 'problem' discussed in the book. The book gives practical ideas and strategies children can do to help themselves feel less like their world is all upside down.

Floss (aged 4) - I love these books, they always give you good ideas if you've got a problem and help you talk about tricky things when you don't know where to start. I love Tilda's hair!

Thank you #Bloomsbury and #NetGalley for this electronic ARC for review. #Tom Percival #TildaTriesAgain

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This uplifting tale is about a little girl called Tilda, whose happy world gets turned upside down, leaving her deflated and gloomy. One day she spots a ladybird who has got itself stuck on its back, it’s world is upside-down just like Tildas. As Tilda is thinking of how she could help the ladybird get back on its feet, she soon discovers that as they ladybird wriggles and moves, it continues to try and its perseverance is rewarded, because the ladybird doesn’t give up and soon it manages to correct itself and is able to fly away. After witnessing this Tilda takes the ladybirds efforts on board and decides to persevere herself and to not give up. Through this new perspective, she discovers the benefits of not giving up and learns she can face what ever challenges she faces!

A lovely book which supports children’s emotional well-being and mental health by promoting resilience, problem-solving and a can-do attitude when challenges occur.

This book would be a FAB addition to any child’s bookshelf with its bright and bold illustrations, it’s encouragement of managing feeings and it’s message to persevere and not to give up.

** I received an advanced copy of this ebook to read and review. Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for allowing me this opportunity. **

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tom Percival creates wonderful picture books and this Bright Feelings series is particularly good, especially for those looking at books to support children's mental and emotional health. Here, Tilda finds a way to deal with sudden changes in circumstance, what feels desperately hard becomes a means of finding new ways of doing things. The illustrations are beautiful and work well with the story, the images reinforcing Tilda's emotional journey throughout. It's a well written story with a lovely character in Tilda, who finds inner strength and resilience. An excellent book to help discuss these issues with children or just as an enjoyable story.
My thanks to #NetGalley and Bloomsbury Children's Books for the ARC in return for an honest review.

[Lucy Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Realised I’d never done a review for this book despite reading to my class as part of my anti-bullying week teaching.

Initially giving this one a slightly lower score as I didn’t resonate with it in the same way I have with earlier books in the series although will reevaluate when I’ve done more work using it. Perseverance and resilience are things that a lot of children are lacking and as such this book is incredibly important for them. I may be barking up the wrong tree but it felt like the world turned upside down for Tilda because of a loss - if this is the case I would have liked maybe a little more from the book although I understand it is not a book about grief. Still teaches a very important lesson either way and I will continue to use it in my teaching.

[Fern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another tremendous triumph from Tom Percival with Tilda Tries Again - dare I say it might even be my Big Bright Feelings picture book yet!

Resilience, self-belief, patience and perseverance are all packed into this gorgeously uplifting tale that will have little and big readers rooting for Tilda's happiness all the way through. I've said it once and I'll say it again; Tom Percival's picture books belong on every child's bookshelf. I really hope that this empowering and important series continues to grow.

[Cathy Ogren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tilda’s world is just right until…it turns upside down. Things suddenly go from easy to hard. Too hard. Tilda gives up and does nothing. When she sees a ladybug stuck on her back. The ladybug keeps trying to turn over with no success. But the ladybug doesn’t give up. She keeps on trying until she achieves success and flies away. Tilda realizes there are times when she must be brave in her topsy-turvy world to make things work. This book addresses facing adversities and trying your best to overcome them.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Bloomsbury Picture Books through Picture Book Palooza.
Percival has created another book that emphasizes growth and emotional health for younger readers. Something happens in Tilda's world that makes major changes. She isn't able to catch up and adjust until she realizes she can take small steps to bring everything back into focus. The stark difference in the black and white vs colorful illustrations captures the emotional struggles told by the text.

[Auro Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐

I loved everything about this picture book.

The colours in the cover are bright and catch kid's eyes straigh away. Good marketing strategy! They are in for a treat.

Tilda tries again is about not giving up, about keep going, about trying as many times as you need, because everything is going to be okay.

I think these books are amazing, necessary and perfect for small kids to start getting familiar with different feelings and emotions.

Definitely I will check the rest of the series!

[Bozhena Levine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another awesome book by Tom Percival! This one is about perseverance and resilience. I read an electronic arc of this book provided by the publisher. Can’t wait till March 2022 for it to be published in the US so that I could finally share it with my students!

[Helen Peckett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely book which I read one assembly as our theme is perseverance. Beautifully written and illustrated with lots to talk about with children afterwards.

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this. Great for younger children and learning ways to regulate emotion and learning how to keep going.

[Elisabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

[Lisa Day · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great book with an amazing lesson for kids and for adults.

[Kirsten Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tom Percival has done it again! Another great addition to his group of books building children's empathy and self resilience

[Lilioara · Rating 5 out of 5]

La fel ca sărbătorile, cărțile ne aduc ÎMPREUNĂ!

Crăciunul e sărbătoarea copiilor. Atmosfera festivă, colindele, costumul popular, mirosul de brad și cozonaci, darurile, toate acestea creează amintiri fascinante în sufletele celor mici. Și ce cadouri pot fi mai frumoase decât acelea care rezistă în timp? Dincolo de jucării și dulciuri, cărțile cu mesaje profunde, trebuie să fie nelipsite din sacul lui Moș Crăciun.
Copiii sunt darul nostru cel mai de preț, de aceea merită timp real și valoros dedicat lor. Citindu-le fragmente din lecturi, vom reuși să creștem oameni buni și prețioși.
Cărțile lui Tom Percival, apărute la editura Bookzone, explică inteligența emoțională pe înțelesul copiilor, cu vârste cuprinse între 3 și 6 ani. De aici, cei mici pot învăța cum să-și recunoască și cum să-și exprime în mod sănătos emoțiile, cum să navigheze prin tot felul de situații complicate, cum să facă față provocărilor zilnice, cum să discute cu cei mari atunci când sentimente noi își fac simțite prezența. Îi încurajează să nu cedeze atunci când dau de greu, să se controleze atunci când devin temperamentali și se enervează ușor, îi inspiră să aibă mai mult curaj și să creadă în puterea lor atunci când totul pare cu susul în jos, să îndrăznească mai mult și să descopere lucruri noi pe care ar putea să le facă, îi îndeamnă să comunice cu alți copii și să-și făurească noi prietenii, să se accepte așa cum sunt, fără să-și facă griji pentru că sunt diferiți.
La fel ca sărbătorile, cărțile ne aduc laolaltă, indiferent de tematica pe care o abordează. Și niciun cadou nu va aduce strălucire mai mare în ochii copiilor ca atunci când mama și tata, bunicul sau bunica, frații mai mari, mătușile sau unchii, se vor așeza la nivelul copiilor și vor citi ÎMPREUNĂ.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Things that had once seemed simple now felt incredibly difficult."

Tilda is very happy until one day, things change for her. Everything seems so hard and she doesn't feel like doing anything ... not even playing with her friends. Sitting alone, she sees a ladybug on its back struggling to right itself. Tilda feels just like that ladybug as it struggles and she is sure that bug will be stuck forever. But the ladybug continues to try and finally she flies away. Well, if the ladybug didn't give up, neither will Tilda! "And the more Tilda tried, the more she found she COULD do." And slowly, Tilda starts to feel right again.

An important message for students. Teachers are always looking for books on resilience and this is a good one.

[Artemis Crescent · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice, cute children's guide to depression. It is about persistence, perseverance, getting up, moving forward, and never giving up. Even when your world has been turned upside-down, and you feel it will never end and nothing will ever be back to normal again.

I found 'Tilda Tries Again' to be quite real, harrowing, and relatable to me, as an adult in her thirties. A lot of children can relate to it, as well. Anyone of any age can. It is short, simple, yet true to life.

A support system and being surrounded by people who care and comfort you are key, too.

I like the inclusion of a ladybird, too. And a redhaired heroine.

The colours are bright, striking and lovely.

Final Score: 4/5