I recently received a copy of this wonderful book, Lily's Little Life Lessons by Rebecca Perlman Coniglio, LCSW. I was excited to hear about it because it is a book created just for kids to help them learn about family, friends, school and being grateful for your loved ones. The book is interesting because at first look it appears to be for younger children, perhaps age 4-6 but when you read it you see the lessons span a larger age range, even up to 8 or 9. I have an 8 year old and she agreed completely.
Lily's Little Life Lessons Book 3 has two stories in it, Only Lily and Lily Learns. Both stories teach children critical lessons about real challenges they face frequently. Only Lily focuses on the fact that Lily is an only child. Lily asks her Mom the all important question why didn't she want baby number two or three? Lily's mom tells her the doctor had told her and daddy that that might not ever have her and so they were so happy they did! She also reminds Lily of all the special things they do together like getting manicures, dancing, and just having fun. She also tells Lily, "All my love is for you. I don't have to divide my heart in two." Lily also learns that she doesn't have to feel blue because she has tons of friends that can come and play and no little brothers or sisters to come boss you around or get in the way. There are lots of fun rhymes and beautiful illustrations (by Jen Mundy) to really engage younger and older readers. The book offers comfort for singletons as they see Lily confronting her own struggles and overcoming them. My 8 year old really enjoyed it and could identify with the feelings brought up in the book.
In Lily Learns Lily is entering school. She is nervous and afraid in her new surroundings without her mom. Lily has concerns about her teachers. Will she be nice? Will Lily make new friends? Lily gets a little sad and misses her mom. Just when she is ready to give up on school a wonderful surprise happens. I won't tell you because I want you to find out when you read it! This transforms Lily's school experience and she really begins to enjoy it. Lily Learns teaches children to persevere and believe in themselves and try new things even if they seem kind of difficult and scary. Mom and Dad will always be there to help you do it but kids need to try new things and see how they work out. The positive ending encourages kids to keep trying new experiences.
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