The Lilly McKee
Series
by Nancy Paris
The Lilly McKee
Series
by Nancy Paris
Big feelings.
Bright imagination.
One brave step at a time... more or less.
Funny, heart-forward chapter books for kids ages 7–10
Meet Nancy Paris
Hi, I’m Nancy — a former professional dancer turned children’s author.
After years on stage and in the studio, I now write stories inspired by the big personalities and big feelings I’ve witnessed firsthand. Through humor and heart, my books explore friendship, empathy, and resilience—without ever losing their sense of fun.
My chapter-book series, Lilly McKee & Friends, follows a spirited third grader navigating relationships, mishaps, and the occasional ballet adventure—usually all at once.
From Stage to Page
I began studying dance at age four and later trained at The Juilliard School in New York City. I performed professionally in ballet, contemporary dance, and jazz, while also teaching and choreographing in studios across Japan, Canada, Sweden, and the United States.
When the world slowed down, I stepped off the stage and into a new role: full-time storyteller. (It was more slimming than baking.)
I now channel those years in rehearsal rooms, onstage, and working with dancers into stories for young readers as they find their own footing.
Why I Write for Children
Childhood is full of intensity—big feelings, big ambitions, and big misunderstandings.
I write for children because stories can help them navigate those moments with humor and courage. Through characters who make mistakes, try again, and grow, I aim to create books that are both entertaining and reassuring.
My goal is simple: to make kids laugh—and help them feel understood.
Personal Notes
• My first favorite book was a science fiction adventure.
• My second was a comic book about Anna Pavlova.
• I believe sparkle improves most situations (within reason).
• I still occasionally do a jeté when no one is watching.
Member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and the Connecticut Authors and Publishers Association (CAPA).
The Lilly McKee & Friends Series
The Lilly McKee & Friends children's chapter book series follows Lilly — an energetic, opinionated eight-year-old ballet student with a frequent-flyer pass to the time-out chair.
Alongside her ride-or-die best friend Luna Flores and her dramatic frenemy Beanie Shufflebottom, Lilly spins through mishaps, mix-ups, and plenty of ballet-school chaos, all under the watchful eye of their endlessly patient (and occasionally frazzled) teacher, Mr. Paul.
Told in Lilly’s lively first-person voice, the series pairs laugh-out-loud humor with big feelings as she figures out friendship, family life, and how to untangle problems with heart.
Perfect for readers who enjoy the humor of Junie B. Jones and the warmth of Clementine.
It's Me, Lilly McKee!
Lilly and her best friend Luna Flores are ballet buddies at Dance Utopia of Middletown — D.U.M. for short. But when a recital-day mishap puts their friendship on shaky footing, it takes a surprising plan — and an even more surprising ally — to help them set things right.
Illustrated by Penny Weber
Available in paperback and e-book
Coming Summer 2026!
Lilly McKee and the Too-Bossy Problem
Lilly has big ideas. Big plans. And very strong opinions about how things should be done.
But when her enthusiasm for “helping” her friends starts causing more problems than it solves, Lilly must learn the difference between leading and listening—before she dances herself right out of the group.
Currently in the Studio.
Be the first to know when Lilly's book arrives
Praise for It's Me, Lilly McKee!
These endorsements are based on advance review copies of It’s Me, Lilly McKee!
shared prior to publication.
Perfect for young readers who love friendship, fun, a little sparkle, and a lot of spunk, this delightful new chapter book follows Lilly as she navigates the tricky, wonderful world of friendships—both on and off the dance floor.
— Courtney Sheinmel
Author of Stella Batts and My Pet Slime
Following the publication of her first two delightful picture books in the children’s series The Adventures of Lilly Nilly, Nancy Paris expands her storytelling in this engaging chapter book for ages 7–10. With a perfect ear for language and a deep understanding of childhood, she captures Lilly’s spunky personality, vivid imagination, and the relatable challenges of growing up. Both funny and meaningful, the story explores friendship, family, and self-discovery in a way that resonates with readers of all ages.
— Deb Miller
DC Metro Arts
I found this book delightful and was easily transported into the mindset of a third grader, with her age-appropriate voice, fresh perspective, and engaging humor. The comic moments are especially charming, and anyone who has taught young dancers will recognize the very real experience of stage fright and first performances. A wonderful story about friendship, resilience, and doing what you love.
— Kathryn Sullivan
Ballet Teacher, STEPS on Broadway, New York City
Welcome to Lilly's World
Hiya! It’s me, Lilly McKee.
Welcome to my world. It includes ballet buns, best friends, dramatic rehearsal moments… and at least one “oops” per week. (Sometimes two.)
If you love dancing, laughing, and figuring things out — even when it’s a little tricky — you belong here.
Ready?
Let’s begin.
Meet the Cast
Lilly McKee
That’s me. I have big ideas, big feelings, and occasionally big trouble. I’m working on all three.
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Luna Flores
My best friend. Craft wizard. Sparkle expert.
If glitter were a personality, it would be Luna.
Beanie Shufflebottom
Dramatic. Always ready for the spotlight. She and I have had a few… moments.
Also in Lilly's World
Mr. Paul
The kindest ballet teacher ever. He says “Again” in a way that makes you believe you can actually do it this time.
Willow McKee
My little sister. Small but mighty. Sometimes sticky. Always watching. (And reporting)
Things I Say a Lot
In case you’re wondering…
Tip-toad
It’s like tiptoe… only quieter.
Wowzaroni macaroni!
When a regular “wow” just won’t do.
Hold your hamsters!
Translation: pause immediately.
Zip my lip!
When I promise to stop talking. (Results may vary.)
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