Hi Julie,

I first met you last year at Cranberry Fest in Warrens, Wisconsin, and then I ran into you again this year.

I just want you to know how much I love your books for my girls! I also wanted to tell you that I’d been using the printed version of your board game since last year because I had some behavioral issues with my daughters.

This board has helped them sooooo much!!!! I don't have anywhere near as many issues as I did. Thank you for offering such a great way for parents to help their children get on the right track and feel good about their choices! We now have your beautiful printed version, which the girls were so excited to put up in our house!!!

A Happy Parent, Lavender Hudson

If ever a children’s book series were destined to be an "instant classic," it would be The Life and Times of Lilly the Lash. The idea that the spirit leading us to our better selves might be embodied in something as physically insignificant as an eyelash, is inspired. The gentle rhythm of the poetry and the vibrant beauty of the illustrations deliver profound messages without a hint of being anything but fun. By working her magic in secret, Lilly reveals a beautifully selfless alternative to a "me first" world. This is storytelling and teaching at its finest.
Lori White, Superintendent, Sarasota County Schools, FL
Lilly the Lash takes a tough moral subject and turns it into a wonderful story that will have children not only asking all the right questions, but just as my daughter Bea, asking for the story itself to be read over and over again.
Rick Fernandes, Emmy Award Winning Director of Children's Programs, New York/Hong Kong
The day I read the first book of the adventures of Lilly the Lash, I was immediately drawn in. Her refreshing look at the world was something that appealed to me. I loved the idea that she was able to travel anywhere she was needed, powered by imagination, and inspired by the good of mankind. The beautiful illustrations add to the experience, making you, the reader, feel as if you are personally taking the journey with Lilly.

As one who has written and produced an award winning children's television series, I'm always excited to see an artistic endeavor that instills valuable life lessons in children, while entertaining them. Lilly the Lash has something for everyone - for the young, and the young at heart. Her quests are adventures of the spirit.
Audrey Landers, Actor, Singer, Writer, Composer, Producer
The Lilly the Lash series is a must for any clinician working with children affected by emotional and behavioral disorders. I'm simply mesmerized by the talent of the author to verbally convey the power of integrity and positive character traits. Children quickly understand Lilly's dilemmas, and can apply these situations to their own lives. They learn valuable life lessons on fairness, respect, responsibility, caring, and friendship. Lilly's journeys are not only inspiring, but touch all children regardless of their race, heritage, or culture. The world of imagination is home to all children, and Marc Tobin's incredible illustrations make it easy for a child to become completely submersed in this fanciful dreamland.
Tricia Hechimovich, LCSW, Montevista Hospital, Las Vegas, NV
For twenty-seven years I've seen firsthand the continuing degradation of our natural resources. It's very worrisome to me, for example; that our waterways are polluted and altered in such ways, they can no longer support the native species that once thrived there. As a biologist who has worked so hard for so long to protect these precious assets, I've come to believe that our hope for the future lies in the changes that the next generation will make, and carry forward, for generations to come. We, as adults, need to teach today’s youth to be connected with the natural world, not compete with it.

Jungle Jive gives us a wonderful opportunity to address these very concerns. The author, Julie Woik, brings out these issues in a way children can easily understand. Her message, alongside Marc Tobin’s captivating illustrations, helps them to see that everything in the world is linked together; and that when we do one thing, it affects another. It's comes down to balance. We need to make a conscious effort to keep things in balance.
Daniel Heim, Water Resources Biologist, Mayville, WI
Three Cheers for Lilly the Lash!! In Ocean Commotion, Lilly continues to amaze, educate, and amuse both children and grown-ups alike. The energetic, sing-song rhyme makes it fun to read, and even more fun to listen to. Ms. Woik provides entertainment, as well as covering our many social and ethical guidelines. Her books not only encourage children to expand their vocabulary, but with the inclusion of "Fun Facts", they further develop their knowledge of the world around them. The illustrations are a delightful treat. I heartily recommend this series.
Marcy W. Murray, M.A. in English Literature, Instructor, Author, Sarasota, FL
I recently introduced the Lilly the Lash series to a wonderful group of students working in a weekly social skills group. They have joyfully embraced the books, and can easily relate to the everyday experiences, creating amazing discussions on how they can improve their own behavior. They are sharing the stories with others in their class, and building self-esteem along the way. We are looking forward to the continuing saga of Lilly.
Barbara Olsen-Fleming, M.A. Specific Learning Disabilities, ESE Specialist, Crystal River, FL
As the father of an eight-year-old girl, I feel the author is addressing some important territory with this book. It is playfully written, yet carefully exposes significant issues associated with today's youth and their culture. It is obvious the author cares deeply about her audience. To tell the story, Ms. Woik has created an engaging lead character, Lilly, who boldly lives life, and ensures that all those around her fully live theirs, and become truly accepting of others and who they are. I eagerly anticipated opening each and every page. They are both beautifully and cleverly illustrated, visually inviting the reader, and listener, in close for the ride.
Joe Muench, Associate Professor, Art and Design, Iowa State University
The Life and Times of Lilly the Lash will fill you with whimsy, enchantment, and a soul-filled smile of approval. A deeply delightful story for all ages.
Jill Badonsky, Author, Artist, Creativity Coaching Pioneer
The Garden Gathering is a truly wonderful story. It is clearly and beautifully written, and the illustrations are remarkable. Lilly teaches lessons good for ALL of us to learn, and she certainly speaks to those who see their uniqueness as a frailty. I look forward to Lilly continuing to "work her magic" in future episodes.
Jake Aslanian, MD, Psychiatrist, Sarasota, FL
Tinkerbell and the Tooth Fairy have had their day. Now, Julie Woik has given us a fairy for the Twenty-First Century! Children will love Lilly's no-nonsense approach to issues that concern them. The Author's infectious rhythm and Marc Tobin's bright cheerful illustrations bring important ideas to young readers while entertaining and delighting them. These are stories that children will want to hear again and again.
Constance J. Pollak Stack, Educator, Columbia University
Through the Lilly the Lash series, author Julie Woik helps children understand that having excellent personal character traits, leads to healthier friendships, higher self-esteem, and positive interactions with others. As a life-long educator, I highly recommend this terrific series to parents, grandparents, and teachers who want to instill values in children closest to their hearts — values that will endure for a lifetime.
Robin L. Magac, Principal, Gulf Gate Elementary School, Sarasota, FL
After eagerly awaiting the arrival of Lilly's latest adventure, I can report with utter excitement, Julie Woik has gifted the world with yet another wonder-filled storybook! Ocean Commotion is an absolute JOY to read. Not only does Julie write a gorgeous story, but she infuses the pages with an "eyelash fairy magic" that springs to life through the beautiful illustrations by Marc Tobin.

As a Parent Coach to families around the globe, I’m always in search of effective tools to help parents teach positive values to their children; and the Lilly the Lash books do this in such a powerful way. All of the extra snippets, like the Fun Facts, the causes in each book, and the extensive online learning activities, make these books one-of-a-kind. I can't recommend these stunning creations highly enough. These books truly need to be in every home. Just imagine what a wonderful world it would be if every child grew up with Lilly's lessons.
Annie Desantis, Parent Coach, Creator of Inspired Parenting Tips, Australia
The Life and Times of Lilly the Lash; The Toy Store, is not only an engaging story, but an effective tool that can be used in therapy for clarifying values, choices, and promoting the richness of giving and sharing. Children will certainly identify with the characters, allowing them to learn a precious lesson about friendship and belonging. Delightfully illustrated!
Michael Lemke, LCSW, Child and Family Therapist, Madison, WI
Lilly the Lash is a MUST read for children of all ages. Let your child take a journey into the wonderful world of imagination, where an eyelash teaches life lessons through amazing adventurous tales. Watch out…you’ll be hooked!
Susan McCann, Loving Mother of Two, New York City, NY
Hang on tight while Lilly the Lash takes us on another magical ride exploring lessons of the human element. In The Toy Store, boys and girls around the globe are shown the importance of embracing personal relationships over the value of material objects. Marc Tobin's rich, vibrant illustrations truly capture Julie’s distinctive writing style, and provide incredibly unique viewpoints of already familiar locations. Where’s Lilly next stop? I can't wait to find out!
Kathleen O’Leary, Innovative Program Director – Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida
In The Kacklin’ Kitchen, Julie Woik continues to tackle the personal insecurities and moral dilemmas that our children encounter daily, with the same trademark lyricism and compassionate insight into human nature that distinguish this exceptional series of books. The enchanting Lilly the Lash returns to work her magic as she gently guides the target of her tender attentions, this time a misguided milk carton, on the path to self-reflection and transformation. Along the way, invaluable lessons are learned about the meaning of courage, remorse, restitution, and respect. Marc Tobin’s beautiful illustrations, in combination with the author’s powerful and inspirational message, will enthrall and captivate children, and indeed the child in all of us.
Linda Choinière, Community and Spiritual Care Animator, Lester B. Pearson School Board, Montreal, Canada
As a dedicated educator for the past twenty-five years, I feel I know a good children’s book when I see one, and Jungle Jive my friends, gets a big thumbs up! I would highly recommend this newest episode in The Life and Times of Lilly the Lash series to students of all levels. The rhythmic phrasing provides children with the opportunity to read fluently, and it’s filled with a plethora of exciting adjectives that would complement any vocabulary classroom lesson.

Julie Woik's positive words of wisdom come alive in the animated, life-like illustrations by Marc Tobin. Children will be able to connect with these lovable jungle characters, and in turn, find a deeper appreciation for our world and what it has to offer. Jungle Jive is rich in conservation and literary lessons, meant to be shared with all.
Ann Anderson, Reading Specialist, Grand Ledge, MI
The Toy Story is a touching, humorous, and heartwarming way for children to learn to cope with a difficult situation. They’ll experience the fun of friendships, as well as the pain of a child who just doesn't know how to play with others. As an educator working primarily with students who experience emotional and behavioral difficulties, I think this book provides an inspiring way to deal with social development.
Kathryn Lawrence, M. Ed., Education Leadership, SEDNET Project Manager, Jacksonville, FL
These wonderful books plant the seed for children to begin to develop healthy self-esteem. This captivating storylines and their amazing illustrations allow children to see the importance of recognizing the beauty in themselves and others.
John Kieffer, MD, Child Psychiatrist, Sarasota, FL
At a time in America when test scores seemingly determine a child's worth, Lilly the Lash comes to the rescue to remind us of the individual gifts hidden inside each of us that are meant to be unleashed. She catches the hearts of children and adult readers alike, in part, through the incredibly detailed illustrations that draw you in and eagerly have you flipping from page to page. In the midst of this Jungle Jive adventure, Daxton and the gang are taught a valuable lesson on choices and the consequences to follow...and how spur-of-the-moment ideas don't always pan out the way one might have imagined. It’s a desperately needed life lesson, garnished with hope. No doubt, Julie Woik's creative heart gives us "a promise of hope that the future will bring!
Jessica L. France, Homeschool Ninja, Mom, and USA-Swimming Coach, New Richmond, WI
As a Marriage and Family Therapist with more than forty years of experience, a mother of three, and a grandmother of five, I highly recommend the Lilly the Lash books, which give children (their parents and grandparents too!) life skills in a joyful, inventive, and playful way. The dangers of greed and thoughtless decision-making taught in this book by the animals are but the start of the lessons. Seeing the world in a small spot on a butterfly's wing is a subtle reminder to recognize the gifts found in all things around us. Lilly the Lash teaches us the importance of choices, mindfulness, and living in the moment. Jungle Jive prompts us to take responsibility for our actions, and shows us the significance of protecting the land and our communities. These lessons are life-changing, inspiring ways to live in health and happiness. My only concern is, if everyone in our world starts following Lilly’s lead, I could find myself out of a job!
Lou Argow, Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Substance Abuse Therapist, VA
That's the 4th Lilly the Eyelash book that I've been waiting for! I like it. I like it all! The milk was mean, and then Lilly the Eyelash sprinkled eyelash dust over him and then he was nice and said he was sorry for being mean. This is my very favorite Lilly the Eyelash book. Oh please Gigi, read it again!
Cole Faulkingham, 5 Years Old, Birch Harbor, ME
Lilly the Lash is a great series because it delivers great moral lessons that kids can understand and relate to. What caught my eye and kept my interest was the rhythm and rhyme the author used as well as the fantastic illustrations that looked so real. I connected with this story because I've been bullied myself and it does not feel good. I would recommend this series to anyone who wants to learn to be a better person.
Nicholas Bigelow, 11 Years Old, Bradenton, FL
It was great! The best book I've heard of. I learned that things that are inside bullies are what make them act mean. Lilly the Lash is a very nice fairy. She helped me to learn that standing up for yourself is a good thing! When you're kind to a person, you get respect back. Sometimes you just need to let bullies know that they should be kind to everyone.
Lucia Willis, 6 Years Old, Gulfport, FL
I love the series of Lilly the Lash. They have great life lessons! I think everyone should read them. Julie Woik is a really good writer. I hope she will make lots and lots more of these books.
Grace Cole, 10 Years Old, Jefferson City, MO
Julie,
It was such an honor to meet you this weekend. Lorrie & I were blown away by your books and website. When I read my daughter, Hope, the story about Sunny tonight, she loved it. Her first question when we finished it was, "Are there more books?" And the best part was that my big, bad, macho, too-cool boys (10 & 12) joined in the story time after just a few pages so we all ended up in the bed together reading and discussing the interesting facts at the end.
Thanks for writing such great books!!!
Tara Martin Wright, Homeschooler, Vero Beach, Florida
The Toy Store is beautiful! What a joy to read. You have once again done a fabulous job. Your books will bring smiles to everyone. How proud you must be!
Thank you,
Paula Huston, Sarasota, FL
I just wanted to thank you for providing such a wonderful presentation! The staff and students loved each session. Thanks again,
Principal Gary Gunderson, Abbotsford, Wisconsin
My son Christian started Kindergarten last week, and as part of his (my) homework, I was asked to read to him for 15 minutes. So, I've been reading your Lilly the Lash books. They're the only books I can read to Christian that will hold him still for more than 5 minutes at a time. We can't wait for the next book!
Melissa - Bradenton, Florida
I would like to thank you for visiting our school to show us your book. I never thought that I would find a children’s book so interesting. I learned that it doesn’t really matter how you look, but rather the personality you have. That book taught me to be happy with myself. And now I see myself from a different point of view. A positive point of view.
Linda, 6th Grader - Wisconsin
Thank you for such a great book! As intended, Lilly the Lash opens up some great discussions about how we think of ourselves and how everyone has their own unique gifts to bring to the world.
Amy, mother of two - England
Hello Julie - The Real Lilly, As parents of our son Arden, we're always looking to encourage and open the scope of his world, as he's just 2 1/2, and doesn't yet have much input. So it's delightful and reassuring to us when we choose nicely on his behalf. We want to thank you for being a part of that process. Your book will long be a favorite read of ours. We also got a real connection with you as we listened and enjoyed the DVD.
Thank You Julie and We Appreciate Lilly The Lash,
Michael, Cameron, and Arden Simpson
I had to come and tell you, after reading The Life and Times of Lilly the Lash last evening, how amazing it was. The book is absolutely beautiful, your writing is excellent (and it rhymes!), the message comes across in such a fun way, and Lilly as an eyelash is just the most clever and creative idea I’ve ever seen! Thank you for giving the children…and the adults, such a great gift.
A Superintendent from Washington – Commented at the 68th National School Board Association Convention
We loved your book and Nicholas loved me reading it to him. He's actually reading it to me now. I have to help a little, but that’s the point…getting them to love to read by giving them a story to love.
Thanks!
Michelle, mother of one - Nokomis, Florida
This book is fantastic! My niece absolutely LOVED Lilly the Lash and said she HAD to have the entire series. I just wanted you to know that she really, really enjoyed it!
Jason - San Francisco, California
Hi, I’ve just received your book, and it’s unbelievable. I will be using it in all of the classrooms I visit each week. I can't wait for the next book when Lilly goes to New York City and teaches children about sharing.
Susie – Pennsylvania
What an incredible book! I do believe that healthy self-esteem is important to children of all ages and I am so pleased to see you turning this into a captivating story.
Ashley - Sarasota, Florida
Hi Julie, I can't wait 'till my granddaughter sees your fantastic book. I think the next step for Lilly is the movies! My husband and I will be in Texas in about a week, as the other book is for my grandson. The free lesson plans are unreal! I can't wait for the next book.
Carol T. - A craft fair customer in Lakeland, Florida
Your books are beautiful! I've shared your website information and books with the teachers at my school. WE ALL THANK YOU SO MUCH! Your website is AWESOME! I love the lesson plans and activities.
Karol Volk, teacher at Marrington Elementary, South Carolina
I recently purchased your first book and read it to my physically challenged students. Most often it is so hard for them to attend to any storybooks or extended auditory stimulation. I played the CD along with the book and they all were very attentive...seems to be some magic going on in Lilly land. I am thrilled! I even was able to attach the bug puppets and garden rings to their fingers and they loved that! I look forward to getting your other books and CD's, as well as the new sign language board game when available. I use sign language as a tool to help my students learn things via the visual channel when they need extra cues for learning. It's all sooooooo great!
Adelle, Special Education Teacher, New York