June 2025 — What begins as a simple trip to the playground turns into a series of magical misadventures in The Adventures of Trollee and Alice, the heartwarming debut picture book by Jacquelene D’Amico. With a marshmallow-loving troll, a mischievous dragon, and a fearless little girl named Alice, young readers are invited on a journey filled with imagination, character-building, and laughs along the way.
Rooted in real-life pretend play between Jacquelene and her daughters, The Adventures of Trollee and Alice is more than just a storybook—it’s a literary tool that empowers children to face challenges with courage, compassion, and creativity. Each chapter highlights a key virtue such as integrity, kindness, optimism, and self-confidence, using exciting metaphors (like a volcanic library eruption representing anger) to help children process big emotions in fun and relatable ways.
"While this book began as a game with my daughter, it quickly became a tribute to the magical power of childhood and the love that lasts beyond this life," says D’Amico, who penned the story during a time of personal grief and spiritual reflection. “I wanted to create something that honors the moments that truly matter—those quiet, playful times that often go unnoticed but are filled with eternal love.”
Designed to support literacy growth, the book features bolded vocabulary words throughout each adventure, followed by “Trollee’s Guide to Tricky Words”—a glossary of definitions and pronunciations that build reading confidence.
Jacquelene D’Amico is the founder of Smart Cookies Education Services and a mother of three. Her passion for education, family, and storytelling shines through every page, offering children and their families a chance to read, reflect, and grow together.
Perfect for children in elementary school, parents, educators, and anyone seeking a wholesome, values-driven read, The Adventures of Trollee and Alice is a joyful, imaginative ride that leaves a lasting impression on the heart.
