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Lily. An Unexpected journey : A Cozy Chapter Book About Friendship, Feelings, and the Magic of Drawing
What if moving to a new home meant leaving everything familiar behind?
Lily’s life changes overnight when her family relocates to Spain. A new house, a new school, and a language she barely understands make her feel lonely, nervous, and completely out of place. Like many children facing a big move, Lily struggles to express her feelings and adjust to an unfamiliar world.
Everything begins to change when she discovers a mysterious old book and meets Ding-Dong — a tiny dragon with a gentle heart and a gift for inspiring courage and creativity.
Through drawing, imagination, and a little magic, Lily slowly learns how to overcome her fears, build confidence, and start making friends in her new environment.
This heartwarming illustrated chapter book combines fantasy and emotional growth in a story that helps children navigate change, friendship, and self-discovery. Perfect for families looking for kids books about feelings, social emotional learning stories, and comforting books about moving to a new house.
Ideal for readers ages 7–10, especially children:
- adjusting to a new school or country
- coping with anxiety or loneliness
- learning friendship and social skills
- building confidence through creativity
A touching story about change, resilience, and discovering that home is the place where you feel loved and understood.
Lily’s life changes overnight when her family relocates to Spain. A new house, a new school, and a language she barely understands make her feel lonely, nervous, and completely out of place. Like many children facing a big move, Lily struggles to express her feelings and adjust to an unfamiliar world.
Everything begins to change when she discovers a mysterious old book and meets Ding-Dong — a tiny dragon with a gentle heart and a gift for inspiring courage and creativity.
Through drawing, imagination, and a little magic, Lily slowly learns how to overcome her fears, build confidence, and start making friends in her new environment.
This heartwarming illustrated chapter book combines fantasy and emotional growth in a story that helps children navigate change, friendship, and self-discovery. Perfect for families looking for kids books about feelings, social emotional learning stories, and comforting books about moving to a new house.
Ideal for readers ages 7–10, especially children:
- adjusting to a new school or country
- coping with anxiety or loneliness
- learning friendship and social skills
- building confidence through creativity
A touching story about change, resilience, and discovering that home is the place where you feel loved and understood.
Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2026
About the author
Volodymyr Samoiliuk
13 books6 followersVolodymyr Samoiliuk is a children’s author, theater director, screenwriter, and father of three daughters. For over eight years, he created engaging stage productions for young audiences in Kyiv (Ukraine), using storytelling to help children understand their emotions, overcome fears, and express themselves with confidence. His work blends creativity with a strong foundation in child development and emotional awareness.
Today, his books support children ages 6–11 as they navigate change — new schools, unfamiliar environments, social challenges, and adaptation. After relocating abroad with his family, these themes became deeply personal, shaping stories that resonate with children adjusting to new realities and seeking stability.
Volodymyr’s books combine adventure, gentle magic, and creative expression as tools for growth. Through relatable characters, young readers learn to build friendships, manage difficult emotions, and develop resilience. His stories are designed not only to entertain but to strengthen confidence, emotional intelligence, and a sense of belonging.
Today, his books support children ages 6–11 as they navigate change — new schools, unfamiliar environments, social challenges, and adaptation. After relocating abroad with his family, these themes became deeply personal, shaping stories that resonate with children adjusting to new realities and seeking stability.
Volodymyr’s books combine adventure, gentle magic, and creative expression as tools for growth. Through relatable characters, young readers learn to build friendships, manage difficult emotions, and develop resilience. His stories are designed not only to entertain but to strengthen confidence, emotional intelligence, and a sense of belonging.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 26, 2026
Lily: An Unexpected Journey is a gentle story about displacement, change and trying to make sense of a life altered by circumstances beyond your control. Lily leaves Ukraine with her parents and sisters for an unfamiliar new home in Spain, carrying memories of everything and everyone left behind.
I liked that the book acknowledges how differently people respond to upheaval: anger, avoidance, practicality and, in Lily’s case, retreating into imagination. It also offers a thoughtful reminder for parents that honesty matters, and that children can be encouraged to embrace new experiences without feeling they must forget what came before.
The author’s note “To all the children who were forced to leave their homes” gives the story added poignancy. However, I did feel some of the charm and whimsy may have been lost in translation, leaving a few moments flatter than intended.
The illustrations were complimentary and sweetly illustrated the important parts of the story such as Lily's vivid imagination and various friends such as Bunny, her toy rabbit.
My thanks to Netgalley , publisher and author Volodymyr Samoiliuk for the advanced copy in exchange for a review.
I liked that the book acknowledges how differently people respond to upheaval: anger, avoidance, practicality and, in Lily’s case, retreating into imagination. It also offers a thoughtful reminder for parents that honesty matters, and that children can be encouraged to embrace new experiences without feeling they must forget what came before.
The author’s note “To all the children who were forced to leave their homes” gives the story added poignancy. However, I did feel some of the charm and whimsy may have been lost in translation, leaving a few moments flatter than intended.
The illustrations were complimentary and sweetly illustrated the important parts of the story such as Lily's vivid imagination and various friends such as Bunny, her toy rabbit.
My thanks to Netgalley , publisher and author Volodymyr Samoiliuk for the advanced copy in exchange for a review.
August 26, 2026
Eight year old Lily lives in Kyiv with her parents and two older sisters. She enjoys eating chocolate, drawing and painting pictures, picking and eating strawberries with her grandmother, and watching clouds. Much to her oldest sister Sarah's dismay, she also has an extremely active and vivid imagination.
Then one day, without warning, the whole family's world turns upside down. They are forced to leave their beloved home in Kyiv and relocate to Barcelona - A new house, a new school, a new town, new friends, a whole new language, a whole new country, a whole new life. Lily is extremely homesick, and fears things will never be the same again.
Lily, An Unexpected Journey follows the understandable ups and downs of Lily's adjustment to both the move and the new surroundings.
I loved this sweet book's gentle, yet realistic approach to such a timely, sad, scary, and sensitive topic. The bright and colorful illustrations added to both the story, and my own enjoyment of the book.
It makes me sad to know that this type of book has to be written at all. While war wasn't mentioned directly, I'm sure that the Ukrainian war was one of the primary reasons Mr. Samoiliuk chose to write it, although I'm also largely basing my conclusion on the fact that Kyiv features so prominently in the story.
There may have been some books written for child refugees and their families in the past, but this is the first time I've seen one; In fact, Mr. Samoiliuk and his team are busy creating a whole series of books about Lily and her friends.
I applaud their realistic yet sensitive approach to the issue, and I dearly wish the premise of the book seems to have been rooted in first hand experience.
Even though the book is centered around Lily and the family's situation, I would recommend it to any family with children who are facing a move. Moving is challenging for anyone, but especially for them. I remember leaving my first childhood home at age four and being absolutely terrified that I would never see my things again - and we were only moving across town.
Full disclosure, my move after high school wasn't unexpected, but like Lilly and her family, we moved a long way away from everyone and everything I'd ever known. Even as a young adult, I was absolutely devastated. Just like Lily, I went through every emotion known to man, and possibly a few more. Both of us eventually calmed down for the most part, but it's still hard for me at times.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley. I'd like to thank the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.All of the opinions in this review are my own, and I'm leaving it of my own volition.
Then one day, without warning, the whole family's world turns upside down. They are forced to leave their beloved home in Kyiv and relocate to Barcelona - A new house, a new school, a new town, new friends, a whole new language, a whole new country, a whole new life. Lily is extremely homesick, and fears things will never be the same again.
Lily, An Unexpected Journey follows the understandable ups and downs of Lily's adjustment to both the move and the new surroundings.
I loved this sweet book's gentle, yet realistic approach to such a timely, sad, scary, and sensitive topic. The bright and colorful illustrations added to both the story, and my own enjoyment of the book.
It makes me sad to know that this type of book has to be written at all. While war wasn't mentioned directly, I'm sure that the Ukrainian war was one of the primary reasons Mr. Samoiliuk chose to write it, although I'm also largely basing my conclusion on the fact that Kyiv features so prominently in the story.
There may have been some books written for child refugees and their families in the past, but this is the first time I've seen one; In fact, Mr. Samoiliuk and his team are busy creating a whole series of books about Lily and her friends.
I applaud their realistic yet sensitive approach to the issue, and I dearly wish the premise of the book seems to have been rooted in first hand experience.
Even though the book is centered around Lily and the family's situation, I would recommend it to any family with children who are facing a move. Moving is challenging for anyone, but especially for them. I remember leaving my first childhood home at age four and being absolutely terrified that I would never see my things again - and we were only moving across town.
Full disclosure, my move after high school wasn't unexpected, but like Lilly and her family, we moved a long way away from everyone and everything I'd ever known. Even as a young adult, I was absolutely devastated. Just like Lily, I went through every emotion known to man, and possibly a few more. Both of us eventually calmed down for the most part, but it's still hard for me at times.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy from NetGalley. I'd like to thank the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.All of the opinions in this review are my own, and I'm leaving it of my own volition.
August 30, 2026
A beautiful and heartfelt story about change, friendship and finding your place when everything around you suddenly feels unfamiliar.
I particularly loved the way Lily’s experience of moving to a new country is explored. Moving can be incredibly difficult for children, especially when it means leaving behind their home, friends, school and everything that feels safe and familiar. Books like this can be so important in helping children understand that the worry, loneliness and uncertainty they may feel are completely understandable, while also reassuring them that a new place can eventually begin to feel like home.
The magical elements bring a lovely sense of warmth and imagination to Lily’s journey, making some quite big emotions accessible to younger readers without ever making the story feel too heavy.
The illustrations are absolutely beautiful and complement the story wonderfully. They are colourful, expressive and full of charm, helping to bring Lily’s world and emotions to life. I can imagine children spending just as much time taking in the pictures as they do following the story.
A thoughtful and comforting book that I think could be particularly special for a child facing a move, a new school or another significant change in their life. Five stars from me.
I particularly loved the way Lily’s experience of moving to a new country is explored. Moving can be incredibly difficult for children, especially when it means leaving behind their home, friends, school and everything that feels safe and familiar. Books like this can be so important in helping children understand that the worry, loneliness and uncertainty they may feel are completely understandable, while also reassuring them that a new place can eventually begin to feel like home.
The magical elements bring a lovely sense of warmth and imagination to Lily’s journey, making some quite big emotions accessible to younger readers without ever making the story feel too heavy.
The illustrations are absolutely beautiful and complement the story wonderfully. They are colourful, expressive and full of charm, helping to bring Lily’s world and emotions to life. I can imagine children spending just as much time taking in the pictures as they do following the story.
A thoughtful and comforting book that I think could be particularly special for a child facing a move, a new school or another significant change in their life. Five stars from me.
August 31, 2026
A gentle, beautifully illustrated, and deeply compassionate book about sudden change, family love, and finding hope during a difficult transition.
What stands out most about Volodymyr Samoiliuk’s storytelling is how tactfully and tenderly the subject of departure is handled. Instead of focusing on fear, the narrative focuses entirely on a child’s inner world—the heartbreak of leaving Grandma’s garden, the confusion of sudden packing, and the comforting game of turning an exhausting road trip into a movie where everyone is a brave character. The subtle, meaningful details in the illustrations add immense emotional resonance without ever overwhelming young readers.
This is a wonderful, sensitive book for families navigating big, unwanted changes or relocation.
It protects young readers' feelings while providing comfort, warmth, and resilience.
What stands out most about Volodymyr Samoiliuk’s storytelling is how tactfully and tenderly the subject of departure is handled. Instead of focusing on fear, the narrative focuses entirely on a child’s inner world—the heartbreak of leaving Grandma’s garden, the confusion of sudden packing, and the comforting game of turning an exhausting road trip into a movie where everyone is a brave character. The subtle, meaningful details in the illustrations add immense emotional resonance without ever overwhelming young readers.
This is a wonderful, sensitive book for families navigating big, unwanted changes or relocation.
It protects young readers' feelings while providing comfort, warmth, and resilience.
August 31, 2026
I absolutely loved this book. It had an amazing message for young readers. I enjoyed the illustrations and storytelling. It is such a wonderful book.
August 26, 2026
Such a sweet story to show the growth through life changes. A simple yet profound way to look at a very ugly situation through a child's eyes. Perfect read for the young generation, but also a wonderful read for those older who still need a nudge of imagination to process situational grief.
Thank you Mr. Samoiliuk and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this beautiful story.
Thank you Mr. Samoiliuk and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this beautiful story.
August 23, 2026
The characters in this story are crafted with a remarkable level of realism, humor, emotional depth, and a touch of sass that makes them incredibly relatable to readers of all ages. At the heart of the narrative is Lily, a captivating main character who embodies the essence of childhood filled with wonder, imagination, adventure, and magic. Through her eyes, readers experience not only the joy and creativity that come with being a child but also the complex emotions, struggles, and changes that often accompany this formative stage of life—feelings that may be difficult to fully comprehend at a young age.
Lily's parents are portrayed as multifaceted individuals who grapple with their own challenges and transitions, reflecting the reality that adulthood is fraught with its own set of difficulties. They are tasked with the responsibility of guiding their children through these changes while simultaneously managing their own emotions and uncertainties. This dynamic creates a rich backdrop against which the story unfolds, illustrating how the adult world can sometimes feel overwhelming and confusing, not just for the parents but also for their little ones who look to them for guidance and support.
Lily's siblings add an extra layer of depth to the narrative, showcasing a diverse array of dreams, hopes, inspirations, interests, and personalities. This diversity is particularly evident in the sibling banter between Lily and her sister Sarah, which brings an authentic and relatable element to the story. Their interactions are filled with humor and warmth, capturing the essence of sibling relationships. The contrast between the two sisters is particularly poignant as they navigate the upheaval of moving. Lily, with her vibrant imagination and a circle of supportive friends, approaches the changes with a sense of optimism, finding ways to embrace new beginnings. In contrast, Sarah, who is a bit older and more aware of the implications of their move, grapples with feelings of grumpiness and sadness, mourning the loss of her friends and the familiarity of their childhood home. This juxtaposition highlights how individuals can experience change in vastly different ways, which is a valuable lesson for young readers.
The story also introduces enchanting characters such as Bunny and Ding-Dong the Dragon, who serve as allegorical figures representing different perspectives on change. Bunny embodies the struggle to hold onto memories and the past, yearning to preserve the essence of their old home. Meanwhile, Ding-Dong the Dragon provides a comforting presence, illustrating through the guidance of their mother that everyone processes change uniquely. Together, they reinforce the idea that while change can be challenging, it is through cherished memories and the love we carry in our minds and hearts that we can navigate these transitions.
The settings throughout the book are beautifully rendered, with vivid descriptions that transport readers into a world that feels both magical and realistic. Each location is thoughtfully crafted, enhancing the reader's immersion in the story. The writing itself is skillfully executed, striking a balance between emotional resonance and accessibility. The author adeptly employs relatable examples and comparisons that young readers can easily grasp, making the themes of the story resonate on a personal level.
The plot is a beautifully woven tapestry of realism, action, adventure, and emotional depth. It unfolds in a way that keeps readers engaged, with each twist and turn adding to the overall richness of the narrative. The illustrations accompanying the text are nothing short of stunning; they are vibrant, detailed, and immersive, allowing readers to not only visualize the characters and settings but also to feel the emotions and actions as they unfold. This integration of text and illustration creates a dynamic reading experience that enhances the storytelling.
At its core, this book is imbued with valuable lessons about change, friendship, family, and the concept of home. It emphasizes that moving forward in life is a journey that everyone experiences differently, and that with the support of loved ones, friends, or community, we can learn to cherish our memories while embracing new beginnings.
"Lily: An Unexpected Journey" by Volodymyr Samoiliuk is not just an educational illustrated book; it is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to adapt to change and how we can keep the essence of the places and people we love alive through our memories. It serves as a reminder that while life may take us on unexpected paths, it is our experiences and the connections we make along the way that truly shape who we are. This book is a treasure for readers of all ages, encouraging them to reflect on their own journeys and the beauty of the memories they carry with them.
Lily's parents are portrayed as multifaceted individuals who grapple with their own challenges and transitions, reflecting the reality that adulthood is fraught with its own set of difficulties. They are tasked with the responsibility of guiding their children through these changes while simultaneously managing their own emotions and uncertainties. This dynamic creates a rich backdrop against which the story unfolds, illustrating how the adult world can sometimes feel overwhelming and confusing, not just for the parents but also for their little ones who look to them for guidance and support.
Lily's siblings add an extra layer of depth to the narrative, showcasing a diverse array of dreams, hopes, inspirations, interests, and personalities. This diversity is particularly evident in the sibling banter between Lily and her sister Sarah, which brings an authentic and relatable element to the story. Their interactions are filled with humor and warmth, capturing the essence of sibling relationships. The contrast between the two sisters is particularly poignant as they navigate the upheaval of moving. Lily, with her vibrant imagination and a circle of supportive friends, approaches the changes with a sense of optimism, finding ways to embrace new beginnings. In contrast, Sarah, who is a bit older and more aware of the implications of their move, grapples with feelings of grumpiness and sadness, mourning the loss of her friends and the familiarity of their childhood home. This juxtaposition highlights how individuals can experience change in vastly different ways, which is a valuable lesson for young readers.
The story also introduces enchanting characters such as Bunny and Ding-Dong the Dragon, who serve as allegorical figures representing different perspectives on change. Bunny embodies the struggle to hold onto memories and the past, yearning to preserve the essence of their old home. Meanwhile, Ding-Dong the Dragon provides a comforting presence, illustrating through the guidance of their mother that everyone processes change uniquely. Together, they reinforce the idea that while change can be challenging, it is through cherished memories and the love we carry in our minds and hearts that we can navigate these transitions.
The settings throughout the book are beautifully rendered, with vivid descriptions that transport readers into a world that feels both magical and realistic. Each location is thoughtfully crafted, enhancing the reader's immersion in the story. The writing itself is skillfully executed, striking a balance between emotional resonance and accessibility. The author adeptly employs relatable examples and comparisons that young readers can easily grasp, making the themes of the story resonate on a personal level.
The plot is a beautifully woven tapestry of realism, action, adventure, and emotional depth. It unfolds in a way that keeps readers engaged, with each twist and turn adding to the overall richness of the narrative. The illustrations accompanying the text are nothing short of stunning; they are vibrant, detailed, and immersive, allowing readers to not only visualize the characters and settings but also to feel the emotions and actions as they unfold. This integration of text and illustration creates a dynamic reading experience that enhances the storytelling.
At its core, this book is imbued with valuable lessons about change, friendship, family, and the concept of home. It emphasizes that moving forward in life is a journey that everyone experiences differently, and that with the support of loved ones, friends, or community, we can learn to cherish our memories while embracing new beginnings.
"Lily: An Unexpected Journey" by Volodymyr Samoiliuk is not just an educational illustrated book; it is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to adapt to change and how we can keep the essence of the places and people we love alive through our memories. It serves as a reminder that while life may take us on unexpected paths, it is our experiences and the connections we make along the way that truly shape who we are. This book is a treasure for readers of all ages, encouraging them to reflect on their own journeys and the beauty of the memories they carry with them.
August 22, 2026
Little Lily loves spending time with her family and friends in the City of Kyiv. From picnics to baking apples pies with Grandma, every corner of Lily's world feels like home. But when Lily's family must leave Kyiv in a hurry, the young girl finds herself in a whole new country with a lot to learn. Can Lily study a new language, navigate her grumpy sisters, and hold onto the memories of home as she embarks on a new adventure?
“Lily: An Unexpected Journey” by Volodymyr Samoiluk is the tear-jerking tale of a little girl torn from home. Lily is a dreamer who loves books, dragons, and imagining new things alongside her plushie sidekick, Bunny. Her sisters, stern Sarah and athletic Diana, couldn’t be more different, and the trio feels the friction as they journey to Barcelona. With loving parents and kind neighbors, Lily and her sisters fight to understand their new home while pursued by the haunting memories of all they had to leave behind.
The story itself is written for a young audience, and does not go into the details of war or tragedy. The narrative is told from Lily’s perspective, and her innocent viewpoint is a clear call to action. Seeing a little girl go through so much hardship and miss her home so greatly strikes right to the heart. I know what it is like to lose home, though for different reasons than Lily, and the author gently helps the reader see the hidden scars that linger far after the immediate danger has passed. The charming illustrations soften the edges of the story as Lily and her family adapt to life in a new country.
The only drawback is that the book ends very abruptly. But aside from that, there is not much to complain about. Readers who have lived through loss, whether caused by war, natural disasters, or economic hardship, can easily identify with Lily. Those who have thankfully not undergone such an event can engage with Lily’s story and better understand those who have been through similar circumstances. This gentle children’s story is a useful tool for parents, teachers, and counselors helping children navigate and understand the complexities of loss.
With heavy themes told in a non-scary manner, this story of finding your way in a new land is suitable for ages 5 and up. A clear call for compassion in a world that is often harsh, this courageous tale of a brave girl far from home earns five out of five stars.
I received a free review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
“Lily: An Unexpected Journey” by Volodymyr Samoiluk is the tear-jerking tale of a little girl torn from home. Lily is a dreamer who loves books, dragons, and imagining new things alongside her plushie sidekick, Bunny. Her sisters, stern Sarah and athletic Diana, couldn’t be more different, and the trio feels the friction as they journey to Barcelona. With loving parents and kind neighbors, Lily and her sisters fight to understand their new home while pursued by the haunting memories of all they had to leave behind.
The story itself is written for a young audience, and does not go into the details of war or tragedy. The narrative is told from Lily’s perspective, and her innocent viewpoint is a clear call to action. Seeing a little girl go through so much hardship and miss her home so greatly strikes right to the heart. I know what it is like to lose home, though for different reasons than Lily, and the author gently helps the reader see the hidden scars that linger far after the immediate danger has passed. The charming illustrations soften the edges of the story as Lily and her family adapt to life in a new country.
The only drawback is that the book ends very abruptly. But aside from that, there is not much to complain about. Readers who have lived through loss, whether caused by war, natural disasters, or economic hardship, can easily identify with Lily. Those who have thankfully not undergone such an event can engage with Lily’s story and better understand those who have been through similar circumstances. This gentle children’s story is a useful tool for parents, teachers, and counselors helping children navigate and understand the complexities of loss.
With heavy themes told in a non-scary manner, this story of finding your way in a new land is suitable for ages 5 and up. A clear call for compassion in a world that is often harsh, this courageous tale of a brave girl far from home earns five out of five stars.
I received a free review copy of this book and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 21, 2026
Lily. An Unexpected Journey is a gentle picture book about a young girl and her family who are forced to leave their home because of war and begin a new life in Barcelona.
I really appreciated the decision to explore the experience of being a refugee through a child’s perspective. Lily is faced with an enormous change that she cannot fully control or understand, and the story focuses on how she experiences leaving behind everything familiar and slowly begins to adjust to a completely different life. It approaches a very difficult subject in a way that feels appropriate and accessible for younger readers.
The illustrations are lovely and have a soft, calming quality that works particularly well with such a heavy topic. There are some very sweet moments throughout the book, and I think the visual side helps make Lily’s journey feel less overwhelming while still allowing the emotional weight of her situation to come through.
I can especially see the value of this book as a way to introduce children to the experiences of refugees and encourage empathy towards families whose lives have been completely changed by war. It could also offer some comfort to children experiencing major changes of their own, even when their circumstances are very different from Lily’s.
As a reading experience, however, I personally struggled to stay fully engaged with the story. I recognise that I’m not the intended age group and that its simplicity makes sense for the younger audience it is written for, but I still found myself wishing the story had drawn me in a little more.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really appreciated the decision to explore the experience of being a refugee through a child’s perspective. Lily is faced with an enormous change that she cannot fully control or understand, and the story focuses on how she experiences leaving behind everything familiar and slowly begins to adjust to a completely different life. It approaches a very difficult subject in a way that feels appropriate and accessible for younger readers.
The illustrations are lovely and have a soft, calming quality that works particularly well with such a heavy topic. There are some very sweet moments throughout the book, and I think the visual side helps make Lily’s journey feel less overwhelming while still allowing the emotional weight of her situation to come through.
I can especially see the value of this book as a way to introduce children to the experiences of refugees and encourage empathy towards families whose lives have been completely changed by war. It could also offer some comfort to children experiencing major changes of their own, even when their circumstances are very different from Lily’s.
As a reading experience, however, I personally struggled to stay fully engaged with the story. I recognise that I’m not the intended age group and that its simplicity makes sense for the younger audience it is written for, but I still found myself wishing the story had drawn me in a little more.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2026
Lily: An Unexpected Journey deals with when Lily and her family have to leave Kyiv, Ukraine and go to Barcelona. Lily worries about those she left behind, particularly her beloved grandmother. Her parents and sisters are each coping with the move in their own ways, and it really helps to show that big events like this impact everyone differently, that everyone grieves the loss of what was familiar and embraces change at different rates. Lily learns a new language, makes new friends, and adjusts to new sights, sounds, and smells in Barcelona. Lily realizes through the course of the book that she isn't alone in feeling out of sorts; her family is beside her in this, too.
The illustrations are soft and the art style is beautiful, which I think also aids in the way the topic of war and being a refugee family is handled. It is such a serious topic, but it is told in a relatable way that anyone who has experienced a loss or big change can relate to.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my review.
The illustrations are soft and the art style is beautiful, which I think also aids in the way the topic of war and being a refugee family is handled. It is such a serious topic, but it is told in a relatable way that anyone who has experienced a loss or big change can relate to.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my review.
August 19, 2026
Lily. An Unexpected journey by Volodymyr Samoiliuk is a thoughtful, compassionate book that helps children navigate the trauma of unexpected change. While it is specifically about a refugee family, I think there are a lot of similarly sudden and difficult experiences that this book could help children work through. I think Lily’s story is a great resource to help children understand and explain their experiences while feeling less alone.
For children who have not experienced anything similar, Lily's story helps to build awareness and empathy for refugees and portrays their experiences to younger readers in an age-appropriate way. While I wish it were not needed, I am glad this book is available for children who could benefit from it.
Kateryna Didevych’s illustrations are cute and soft in a way that compliments the subject matter. She uses a fairly neutral, calming, palette with pops of more vibrant color.
For children who have not experienced anything similar, Lily's story helps to build awareness and empathy for refugees and portrays their experiences to younger readers in an age-appropriate way. While I wish it were not needed, I am glad this book is available for children who could benefit from it.
Kateryna Didevych’s illustrations are cute and soft in a way that compliments the subject matter. She uses a fairly neutral, calming, palette with pops of more vibrant color.
August 24, 2026
This was just a beautiful read, I have read another Lily book but this was I enjoyed so much more, the characters are well crafted, the story has a lot of emotional depth despite the audience it has aimed at. The artwork is beautiful, and again I adore the use of chapters because I would read this to an early years class, but I would worry it is a little long to do in one sitting; therefore, the use of chapters can make that process a little easier.
I got to the end of this book and just smiled; this is a great book for those who have never seen much of the world, just last year I was covering a class and found out that most of them have never been to the seaside, so books like this I think are so important so that children can learn about the world through reading.
This is a beautiful book and will be something I try to get into my classroom.
I got to the end of this book and just smiled; this is a great book for those who have never seen much of the world, just last year I was covering a class and found out that most of them have never been to the seaside, so books like this I think are so important so that children can learn about the world through reading.
This is a beautiful book and will be something I try to get into my classroom.
September 1, 2026
The story is about Lily , an 8 yr old who had to leave Kyiv to Barcelona unexpectedly. Since she is not mentally prepared for such sudden move, she feels homesick. She is an innocent and lovely girl who believes in clouds, dragons and loves her bunny. It is not easy to settle in new place where she doesn't know language as well. How she navigates through this phase is the remaining story.
I loved the way the story is written in a heart warming and empathetic way. I like the characters of Lily's parents who answer her questions with patience and love. Sarah seems like a regular teen sister in any family. Nice story about friendship, emotions, estrangement and believing in magic.
I loved the way the story is written in a heart warming and empathetic way. I like the characters of Lily's parents who answer her questions with patience and love. Sarah seems like a regular teen sister in any family. Nice story about friendship, emotions, estrangement and believing in magic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2026
3.5 stars — A heartfelt story about the hardship of leaving everything behind
Lily: An Unexpected Journey by Volodymyr Samoiliuk has nice illustrations and a good story overall. It demonstrates how hard it must be to pick up your life and move away from the places, family, and friends you know and love, in order to stay safe during times of conflict.
A meaningful, thoughtful read. 3.5 stars.
Lily: An Unexpected Journey by Volodymyr Samoiliuk has nice illustrations and a good story overall. It demonstrates how hard it must be to pick up your life and move away from the places, family, and friends you know and love, in order to stay safe during times of conflict.
A meaningful, thoughtful read. 3.5 stars.
October 14, 2026
This book was a very well written and a very nice way to show the real pain and discomfort of moving from a childs eyes.
It showed the ups, the downs, the pain of moving. and even more so the pain if you had to move suddenly, if you dont get a choice, if you have to, to be safe, or free.
It was beautiful and heartfelt and something every kid should read or hear one day.
It showed the ups, the downs, the pain of moving. and even more so the pain if you had to move suddenly, if you dont get a choice, if you have to, to be safe, or free.
It was beautiful and heartfelt and something every kid should read or hear one day.
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