Several years ago, my daughter received the first book in The Adventures of Lily Lapp series by Suzanne Woods Fisher and Mary Ann Kinsinger. While at the library, she discovered the other three books in the series. She borrowed the books several times that summer and took them everywhere. After we purchased a set for her, it wasn’t long before the books had earned a spot on her bed like treasured stuffed animals. Both of my daughters have enjoyed these sweet tales of a little farm girl who often finds herself in trouble. Though Lily is Old Order Amish, she deals with challenges at home and at school just like many young readers. The authors captured my daughters’ hearts by creating relatable characters, weaving humor into the stories, and balancing the books with just enough tension.
This past spring, we learned Ms Fisher would be signing books at a Mother’s Day Luncheon at a church a couple hours from our home. Since my girls absolutely adore the Lily Lapp stories, we marked the date on our calendar and planned the road trip with my mom. After enjoying the catered lunch, this bestselling, award-winning author spoke to the group about her books. She focused on the history of the Amish and discussed her connection to Old Order German Baptist Brethren also known as Dunkards. The event ended with a book signing where Ms Fisher encouraged the girls to continue reading and writing.
My older daughter–then in fifth grade–was disappointed there weren’t plans for future Lily books. When she had to write a book for a class project, she decided to continue the story on her own. In her story A Super Sweet Pizza, my daughter kept Lily, her family, and classmates true to character while making sure her details were unique yet consistent with the original stories. She was thrilled when Ms Fisher agreed to sign the book she’d written.
What happens after the conclusion of your favorite book? Extending the story is a fantastic writing exercise for readers of any age. As schools reopen their doors for a new year, grade school students will be asked to read 15 to 20 minutes a night. I encourage you to check out The Adventures of Lily Lapp. They won’t disappoint. For continued enjoyment, young readers must visit Lily’s interactive website. There they can meet Lily’s family, ask her a question, take a quiz, play games, print out coloring sheets, and try different recipes. Hope you enjoy!ave
Laurie! I am so sorry I didn’t drop by sooner! Loved this interview and loved meeting your daughters! I sent your daughter’s story to Mary Ann Kinsinger (my co-author)–she was thrilled! The Lily stories are based on her life. I keep hoping we might do more Lily books… If so, your family will be the first to know. Big hugs to your girls! Warmly, Suzanne