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How Lumi Learned to Fly: The Little Butterfly that Learned to Believe in Herself

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25 pages, Paperback

Published August 8, 2026

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David Michael

7 books1 follower

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5 stars
33 (91%)
4 stars
3 (8%)
3 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
19 reviews
August 23, 2026
This story might be small, but it has a big message!

If you want a heart-felt, uplifting children's story, this is it!

Lumi learned that she didn't need to change to fly she just needed to believe in herself! Thankfully, she found the cutest friend to help encourage her!

This message isn't only important for children it's important for adults too!

We need to have the right people in our circle to remind us that we can do hard things if you believe in ourselves!

The illustrations were so fun! All around, a great book with the best message!
Profile Image for Hannah Mosing.
Author 3 books13 followers
August 24, 2026
A beautiful story about courage, self-acceptance, and believing in yourself - this book really warms my heart and I can’t wait to read it to my niece and my future children! I think it’s a wonderful book for both kids and adults alike.
Profile Image for Jenna Reines.
4 reviews
August 12, 2026
**⭐ 4.5/5**

*How Lumi Learned to Fly* may be a little story, but it carries such a **BIG message**. 🦋

Lumi's journey takes us from struggle to triumph through courage, confidence, self-acceptance, and growth. Her emotions are beautifully conveyed along the way—from sadness and fear to awe and happiness—as she learns that being different doesn't mean being *less*.

The message is where this book really shined for me. Embrace what makes you different. Don't compare yourself to others. Keep trying. Believe in yourself. You don't have to be perfect—you just have to be **YOU**. 🥹

I especially loved how these lessons were delivered. The writing has an almost *word-dance* quality to it—beautiful and expressive without feeling overly cliché or too difficult for its intended 4–8 age range. And that wise little bumblebee? I adored him. 🐝 He gave me the sweetest little Jiminy Cricket vibes.

The soft pastel illustrations are precious and beautifully complement the fairytale-like story. A few did begin to feel somewhat repetitive to me, although that's something I noticed as an adult reader and I'm not convinced a child would give it a second thought.

My biggest hesitation was the amount of text on some pages. Several contain fairly large paragraphs, and for younger readers in the intended age range, I wondered whether that might make it harder to hold their attention. I think some condensing could make an already beautiful story even more accessible without sacrificing its message.

But the question I kept coming back to was simple: **Would I purchase this book for a child?**

**Absolutely. 🤎**

This isn't just a cutesy children's story with pretty pictures—it has something meaningful to say. And that's a message I would happily put into the hands of a child. 🦋

*I received a complimentary advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Profile Image for BeBe Cooper Halloween.
1 review
August 16, 2026
I received a copy of How Lumi Learned to Fly: The Little Butterfly That Learned to Believe in Herself from the author, and while this may be a small book, it carries such a powerful message. 🦋

Lumi’s story is ultimately about learning to trust yourself. She watches others do something that she desperately wants to be able to do, but she struggles to believe that she can do it too. With the encouragement of a little bee who helps her find her courage and bravery, Lumi slowly begins to realize that sometimes the biggest thing standing between you and what you want to accomplish is believing that you are capable of doing it.

What I especially loved about this story is the message it gives young children about comparison. You may not be able to do something exactly the way someone else does it. You may not get there as quickly as they do. Your journey might look completely different. But that doesn’t mean you aren’t capable of getting there.

Sometimes you have to stop looking at what everyone else is doing and start putting that faith into yourself.

I think that is such an important lesson to introduce to children while they’re young. Learning to love yourself, invest in yourself, trust your own abilities, and understand that you will reach certain milestones in your own time are lessons that can follow you well into adulthood.

Lumi didn’t need to become like everyone else. She needed to discover what she was capable of in her own way. And once she finally found that trust within herself, she was able to do something she once thought she couldn’t.

A sweet, quick read with a message much bigger than its pages. 🦋🐝
Profile Image for Ashley-Lynn Rolnik.
4 reviews
August 14, 2026
I was lucky enough for the author to send me a copy of the book to preview. I read it with my 6½-year-old son, and we both absolutely loved it.

The message really hit home for us in two completely different but equally meaningful ways.

My son recently dealt with some kids making mean comments about him being smaller than the other kids, so the idea that what makes you different doesn’t make you less capable (and that you don’t need to look or be like everyone else to find your own strength) was such a powerful message for him.

And funny enough, I felt like I needed to hear it too. I am in the middle of a pretty major career transition and taking a leap into something new, so the message about not comparing yourself to everyone around you, finding your own rhythm, and trusting that the courage is already inside you felt incredibly timely for me as well.

I especially loved that Lumi’s wings never actually needed to change… she changed her perspective. It’s a simple enough concept for a child to understand, but there’s so much depth to it for adults too! Children’s books that have a relevant message for both kids and adults are my favorite!

My son was completely engaged, the illustrations are beautiful, and it also opened a natural conversation between the two of us afterward, which to me is one of the best things a children’s book can do.

Thank you for letting us be among the first to read it. We genuinely loved it, and I think the message is going to resonate with so many kids (and their parents too!)!
Profile Image for Billie Daviams.
3 reviews
August 12, 2026
"How Lumi Learned to Fly" is truly one of the most delightful books I have encountered. It is a heartwarming children's story that chronicles the journey of a young butterfly named Lumi, who grapples with self-doubt and an apprehension about taking flight. The narrative beautifully portrays Lumi's internal struggles, as she fears she may not be able to fly with the same grace as her fellow butterflies. A kind bumblebee observes her hesitation and offers words of encouragement, reassuring Lumi that it is perfectly acceptable to be unique and different from others. The bumblebee imparts a valuable lesson, emphasizing that progress, no matter how gradual, is still progress. Furthermore, the bumblebee reminds Lumi that perfection is not a prerequisite, and that courage is truly all she needs. Through dedicated practice, unwavering patience, and a newfound belief in herself, Lumi ultimately embraces her wings and develops her own distinctive flying style. The central themes of this story revolve around conquering the fear of not conforming to others' expectations and the importance of embracing one's true self, recognizing that making mistakes is a natural and enjoyable aspect of the learning process.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Debra Ramos.
199 reviews6 followers
August 12, 2026
A Cute Little Story with a Big Message

A sweet and charming children’s story with such a profound message.  It beautifully reminds little readers that it’s okay to be scared, believe in yourself, and take things at your own pace.

I loved the message that we don’t have to compare ourselves to anyone else, each of us is unique, special, and capable of amazing things in our own way. The story also highlights perseverance, finding strength within, being a good friend, and knowing that it’s okay to ask for help.

The bright, cheerful illustrations make it even more engaging and easy for kids to connect with.

I had the joy of reading it to some neighborhood kids, and their excitement and cheerful reactions made it such a joyful experience. Watching them connect with the story was truly heartwarming.

A wonderful little confidence boost for young readers!

Thank you to the author fot the eARC, this is my honest review.
1 review
August 24, 2026
I really enjoy reading books to my son, so I was very happy to have the opportunity to read How Lumi Learned To Fly.
The first thing that caught my attention was the beautiful illustrations. Every page is full of soft colors and lovely details that make the story even more magical and enjoyable for children.
But what I loved the most was the message behind the story. Lumi learns that she doesn’t have to be like everyone else or compare herself to others. Everyone has their own pace and their own way of doing things. The story teaches children that they don’t have to be perfect or succeed on the first try. What matters is to keep trying, believe in themselves and find their own way.
I think this is such an important message for children. I love books that are not only beautiful to look at, but also have something meaningful to teach.
This was a lovely, heartwarming story and definitely a book I’m happy to read with my son.
Profile Image for Sarah Walker.
38 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2026
This book is the perfect example of how everyone is different in their own ways. What works for someone else, might not work for you! 💕 David Michael made this cutie book for children with bright and beautiful colors that tell a story of a struggling butterfly who gets a little help from a friendly bee.

The only suggestion I have for the book is the pictures are beautiful and colorful, but I would have liked more of a variety of what I was looking at. The illustrations were a tad repetitive.

Overall, this is a lesson for all. Just like Lumi say’s “I don’t fly like them, I fly like me…” this is a cute story that is worth anyone times to remember what they are capable of even when it’s hard.

*I did receive an ARC from the author but this did not influence my thoughts on the book! All thoughts are original by me.
Profile Image for The Shelf by Swastii.
5 reviews
August 12, 2026
Some stories don't just entertain- they leave your heart a little lighter.

Lumi is a beautifully written children's story that reminds young readers that courage doesn't come from being like everyone else- it comes from believing in yourself.

The gentle conversations, warm illustrations, and meaningful message make this a comforting read for both children and adults.

I especially loved how the story encourages kids to embrace their own pace instead of comparing themselves to others.

While this story is written for children, I believe adults will connect with it just as deeply because whenever life fills us with doubt, there's still a little child within us who needs a reminder to be brave, keep believing, and never lose hope 🩷🩷
Profile Image for Shaleese.
26 reviews2 followers
August 12, 2026
I just read it to my kids in the car. They enjoyed it, they all loved the artwork. They liked that the bee took the time to help Lumi see her potential and said it helps them to remember to be themselves, to find the way that works for them, and not trying to do it like someone else to keep failing and become discouraged.

It was good. I think that we often get stuck in the cycle of comparing. Even as adults, its easy to look at others for something they have or can do better than you and feel down and discouraged. Its a beautiful reminder for all of us to remember we are uniquely ourselves and just need to focus on being the best we can. Focusing on what others can do just means your aren't progressing and moving forward like you could be. Thank you for the reminder.
3 reviews
August 12, 2026
How Lumi Learned to Fly is a lovely and heartwarming children's story with beautiful illustrations and a meaningful message.
The story follows Lumi, a little butterfly who lacks the confidence to fly. With the help of a kind little bee, she slowly learns to believe in herself and discovers that with courage, practice, and self-belief, anything is possible.
The illustrations are charming, and the story shares a gentle lesson that young readers can easily understand.
I think this would make a wonderful bedtime read for children.
Reading this story left me with a smile, and I can easily imagine it inspiring little readers to believe in themselves whenever they feel a little scared or unsure.💛

Thank you author David for giving an opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Profile Image for Tina Gill.
1 review
August 19, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author. First of all, I loved the illustrations. They are so cute and colorful. I felt this book had an important message when it comes to believing in oneself and this will hopefully resonate with the young readers it is aimed towards. I know it resonated with me. Lumi is a little butterfly who is trying to learn to fly, though early on, she is filled with self-doubt. Without spoiling, I felt this book showed the importance of friendship and not comparing yourself to others. I loved the bumblebee character. These lessons can be for everyone, especially in our social media driven world. I have two nieces, who are one and two, and I can't wait to share this book with them! Thank you to David for asking me to read and review this book :)
20 reviews
August 12, 2026
I received How Lumi learned to Fly for an ARC review and I couldn’t have asked for a better book for my first ever ARC review. This is a beautifully illustrated book suitable for all the young readers aged between 4-8.

This is a story of a little butterfly who is afraid to take her flight. She sees all the other butterflies fluttering around her but feels she is too tiny to do it like them.

Along comes a wise bumblebee who encourages her to be brave and take her first flight. This book tells every kid that the wind pushes everyone differently but it’s important to find the courage within us.

Highly recommended it for every child.
Profile Image for Sammii.
1 review
August 17, 2026
How Lumi Learned To Fly is such a beautiful book both in illustration and in story.
Little Lumi learns to overcome her fears and how to embrace who she is with the help of her friend Bumblebee.
I showed this to my little man tonight and he absolutely loved it, he loves butterflies and pointed Lumi out to me “look mummy a butterfly!”
The illustrations is stunning and easy on the eyes, perfect for a bedtime story.
This is an engaging story with simple themes for little ones to follow along, albeit maybe my son is a a little too young to understand the book but it will be a story we can read for many years to come.
A beautiful message from a beautiful book.
Profile Image for The Retired Reader.
7 reviews
August 12, 2026
How Lumi Learned to Fly is a wonderful children’s book about a small butterfly who wants to dance through the golden air like the other butterflies. Lumi has fears and just needs a little encouragement from a beautiful bumblebee friend.

This sweet story shares a lovely message about facing your fears, encouragement, friendship, and bravery. This little butterfly will steal your heart, along with Lumi’s adorable little friend.

A great read to share with kids and grandkids. I highly recommend this book!

I received an ARC of this book and gave it 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Sarah Elizabeth Schiel.
409 reviews15 followers
August 14, 2026
I just read this to my three year old. I am feeling ultra inspired as her mom, and she definitely understood the underlying message of "don't give up".

I think it is so important to teach kids that comparison is the thief of joy and I wish I had this book when my son was little. The message that you have what it takes to succeed and that everyone's journey to success looks different? This is so so important while these children develop. Thank you for this powerful message in children's packaging!
Profile Image for Tiffany LeThriller.
98 reviews12 followers
August 15, 2026
Get your tissues, because this book will resonate with anyone of all ages.

As a parent of a special needs child, I especially enjoyed How Lumi Learned to Fly. A little encouragement from someone who believes in your capabilities is magic, and Lumi and her new friend prove just that.

It teaches you that it's okay to be different, do things at your own pace, and have the confidence to soar (quite literally).

The illustrations are beautiful, and the overall message is profound. I highly recommend picking this up and reading it with your children.
Profile Image for Crystal Eubanks.
65 reviews8 followers
August 20, 2026
I LOVE this book!

This is a story of a butterfly, Lumi, that thinks she’s different than other butterflies. With the help of a bumblebee, she learns to love her differences and embrace who she is.

This is a great children’s story that helps encourage children to believe in themselves, no matter how different they may be than others. It teaches that we are unique and special in our own way and to embrace that.

I’d like to thank the author for gifting me an e-copy of this book, for my honest voluntary thoughts and opinions.

Happy Reading,
Crystal E.
@booked_in_mississippi
Profile Image for Author Agnes Varona Oquendo.
Author 7 books85 followers
August 22, 2026
“How Lumi Learned to Fly,” is an ideal and inspiring story to convey a simple message of strength, empathy and encouragement that many of us need to go forward. Lumi always had the tools for success but she was apprehensive to try. A little encouragement from her friend gave her the strength to start out small until she saw what she was already capable of achieving.
The message was simple but strong. The characters were few but perfect and the illustrations were beautifully drawn to capture their targeted audience. Well done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kaileigh Hendry.
21 reviews
August 12, 2026
How Lumi learned to fly by David Michael is now available today! This story follows a little butterfly who learns that through courage, the help of a friend, and simply believing in yourself, you can find the courage to try and maybe even fly! This is honestly such a cute children’s book and has such a great message behind it! As a mom and aunt, this is the type of story I’d want kids to be reading. Thank you David for letting me read and review your book!
75 reviews
August 13, 2026
My granddaughter and I received an ARC for this book and we absolutely loved it. The message is beautiful and easy for kids to understand. We especially enjoyed the illustrations. This is an excellent book for children of all ages whether they can read it themselves or have a grown up read it to them. We all learn how to do things on our own timeline and kindness from others helps us along the way.
Profile Image for McKenzie W.
1 review
August 12, 2026
This is such a sweet little story about finding your confidence, believing in yourself, and learning that it’s okay to take things at your own pace. The illustrations are absolutely adorable and give the book such a soft, magical feel. 🥹💗

We had the pleasure of reading this tonight before bed and all agreed it’s a new favourite! It’s such a cute, encouraging read for little ones.
1 review
August 17, 2026
How Lumi Learned to Fly is such a beautiful story about courage, friendship, and finding your own way.
As a mom, the message really stood out to me. I love finding stories that remind my kids that they don’t have to be like everyone else and that it’s okay to do things in their own way. The illustrations are beautiful, the story is sweet, and I love the message it leaves with kids.
Profile Image for Christy Taylor.
1,282 reviews56 followers
August 18, 2026
This is such a sweet book that you could share with a special child in your life or a friend who needs a confidence booster. The illustrations are lovely, but the messages in the story- having the courage to try and believing in yourself - are even lovelier. Lumi captured my heart, and she was lucky to have a friend as kind and wise as the bumblebee.
Profile Image for Jordyn Maher.
1 review
August 12, 2026
I had the privilege of reviewing the advanced readers copy of How Lumi Learned to Fly. It's a very cute story with the message to never give up. The illustrations are adorable and Lumi's journey is organic and will make it easy for kids to follow. 🥰
Profile Image for Tegan novelteereads.
157 reviews3 followers
August 12, 2026
Exceptionally well written for a children’s book! There was some more advanced wording than what my 2-4 year olds are used to, and I did fumble reading one page aloud, but my kids still really enjoyed the illustrations and were able to comprehend the overall message.
1 review
August 16, 2026
I absolutely love the message of this book and how the bee helped the butterfly fly and find the confidence inside her and all of the little quotes inside the book I will definitely be reading this to my kindergarten class !!
1 review
August 18, 2026
This story is inspiring about finding your inner strength. It follows Lumi on her struggle to fly like the other butterflies, but with help from a friend she finds that not everyone is meant to fly the same. The illustrations are beautiful and every little girl’s dream.
6 reviews
August 21, 2026
This is a great read for social/emotional learning, and reminding little ones that true strength lies within. The illustrations are beautiful, and Lumi's courage and determination is sure to connect with young readers!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews