I stumbled upon 'The Book of Friendly Giants' almost by accident, and I'm so glad I did. Eunice Fuller's book is a quiet little gem that feels both classic and fresh.

The Story

This isn't one long story, but a series of short tales and sketches. We meet giants, but they're nothing like the ones from most folklore. These giants live in harmony with the human world. One might be a gentle soul who tends a colossal garden, his fingers careful with the smallest flowers. Another could be a silent guardian of a village, using his great height to watch for real dangers, not cause them. The 'conflict' here is often internal or societal—the initial fear people feel, the misunderstanding of difference, and the slow, beautiful realization that these enormous beings are not foes, but gentle neighbors and friends. The plot is simple in each vignette, focusing on small moments of connection that bridge the gap between the large and the small.

Why You Should Read It

In a world that often feels loud and divisive, this book is a breath of fresh air. Its core theme is radical kindness and the rejection of prejudice. Fuller asks us to look past appearances, to question the stories we're told about who or what is dangerous. The giants are beautifully drawn as patient, often lonely figures whose greatest power is their capacity for care. Reading it, I was struck by how this simple idea applies everywhere—to how we view people who are different from us, to how we perceive nature, even to how we face our own personal 'giants' or challenges. It's a profoundly hopeful book.

Final Verdict

'The Book of Friendly Giants' is perfect for anyone who loves classic, thoughtful children's literature (think Eleanor Farjeon or George MacDonald), but it has real depth for adult readers, too. It's for the daydreamer, the quiet observer, and anyone who needs a reminder that gentleness is a superpower. If you're looking for fast-paced action, this isn't it. But if you want a book that feels like a comforting, wise friend, offering a timeless lesson wrapped in simple, elegant prose, you've found it. Keep it on your nightstand for when the world feels a little too harsh.