TOO-TALL FOYLE
CHILDREN’S BOOK SERIES
Big heart. Big dreams.
A story every kid can relate to.
Welcome to the world of Too-Tall Foyle, where standing out is just the beginning of something great. Inspired by the real-life journey of NBA star Adonal Foyle, this vibrant children’s book series follows a boy who learns to embrace his height, find confidence, and build community—on and off the court.
Too-Tall Foyle Finds His Game
Too-Tall Foyle Makes the Team
Too-Tall Foyle Learn His Alphabet
About the series
Big Dreams Start with Believing in Yourself
The Too-Tall Foyle children’s book series is a heartwarming celebration of individuality, growth, and perseverance. Each book follows the journey of a tall, gentle boy named Too-Tall Foyle as he navigates the ups and downs of childhood—discovering who he is, learning to value his uniqueness, and building meaningful relationships through sport, school, and self-discovery.
Written by former NBA star Adonal Foyle and educator Shiyana Valentine-Williams, and beautifully illustrated by Toni Pawlowsky, this series was created to help children feel seen, supported, and inspired.
Whether your child is taller than their classmates, quiet in group settings, new to the team, or just trying to figure out where they fit in, Too-Tall’s relatable challenges and triumphs make every story a meaningful read.
These books are ideal for ages 4–10 and are aligned with early childhood literacy and character education standards—perfect for families, teachers, librarians, coaches, and counselors who want to inspire kids to stand tall and lead with heart.
Each book in the series supports core themes of:
Self-confidence & self-acceptance
Teamwork & sportsmanship
Resilience in the face of setbacks
Empathy, inclusion, and leadership
Literacy, learning, and social-emotional growth
Based on a True Story
From a Tiny Island to Big Dreams
The Too-Tall Foyle series is more than just inspiring fiction—it’s rooted in the real-life journey of NBA veteran, scholar, and author Adonal Foyle.
Born on the small Caribbean island of Canouan, Adonal grew up in a fishing village with no basketball courts, limited resources, and big dreams. He studied by the light of a kerosene lamp, rode donkeys to school, and stood taller than most kids his age—both physically and in his hopes for the future.
At 15, he moved to the United States to pursue an education. He eventually became a collegiate basketball standout, earned a degree magna cum laude, and was drafted into the NBA as the 8th overall pick in 1997.
The character of Too-Tall Foyle reflects that very journey—navigating what it means to stand out, discovering self-confidence, and finding strength in community. Just like Adonal, Too-Tall learns that being different isn’t a flaw—it’s a gift waiting to be embraced.
Through this series, Adonal shares not just his story, but a message of resilience, identity, and possibility that children everywhere can connect with.
The baskeball courts on Adonal’s home island of Canouan
Book a Reading with Adonal
Bring the Author to Your School, Library, or Community Event
Make story time unforgettable with a live or virtual reading from Adonal Foyle, the author of the Too-Tall Foyle series. Whether you're hosting a classroom event, library program, sports camp, or literacy festival, Adonal brings a unique blend of heart, humor, and inspiration to every reading.
With each visit, Adonal shares:
A live reading of one of the Too-Tall Foyle books
A behind-the-scenes look at his childhood and journey to the NBA
A Q&A with students or attendees
Encouragement for kids to embrace their uniqueness and stay curious
Recommended for:
Grades K–5, educators, libraries, sports teams, reading programs, and family literacy events.
Interested in hosting Adonal?
Click below to check availability, rates, and schedule a reading.
Options Available:
In-person visits (limited availability)
Virtual classroom or Zoom events
Bundle discounts for schools and nonprofits
Signed book packages
