Lily Hates Goodbyes: Navy Version
By Jerilyn Marler
The Story
A young military child named Lily has to say goodbye to her Navy Daddy for a deployment that feels like a billion days, and must find her way through the swirl of hard feelings until she can joyfully welcome him home.
Why It's Special
For the military kid counting down days on a calendar, Lily gives their scary, swirly feelings a name and a friend who feels them too.
- Big idea: Missing someone doesn't mean you can't still be happy while you wait for them.
- Vibes: Tender, reassuring, and honest about hard feelings, with a hopeful reunion waiting at the end.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are currently experiencing a parent's military deployment
- are working on naming and coping with big, scary feelings
- respond well to stories that mirror their own family situation
- need reassurance about when a loved one is coming home
Ask Your Little Reader
- Feelings & empathy: How does Lily feel when she has to say goodbye to her Daddy?
- Real-life connection: What helps you feel connected to your Daddy or Mommy when they're far away?
- Story & problem-solving: What are some things Lily does to feel happy while she waits for her Daddy to come home?
- Imagination: If you made a memory box for someone you miss, what would you put inside it?
- Real-life connection: What do you want to do first when your loved one comes home, just like Lily?
