From Stage to Story: Why I Wrote Lilly McKee

April 2026

The story behind the story of Lilly McKee

My mom had the gift of gab.

A story wasn’t just a story — it was a full performance, always lively and usually funny. I could listen to her for hours.

My sister inherited that talent. Ask her a simple question, and you’ll get a wonderfully detailed answer wrapped inside a much bigger story. She eventually became an actor, which surprised no one.

I, however, didn’t get the speaking version of that gene. From the age of four, I told my stories through movement.

The dance studio became my safe space — the place where I slowly found my voice.

As a teen, I performed in local Long Island dance troupes. After high school, I trained at The Juilliard School, the Martha Graham School, and American Ballet Theatre. I went on to dance, choreograph, and teach professionally for many years.

Teaching children became my favorite part.

It was never just about steps.

It was about steadying confidence when it wobbled, celebrating victories, and helping kids navigate big feelings.

It was about learning when to stand out — and when to belong.

At the time, I thought I was simply helping shape future dancers and dance lovers. I didn’t realize I was also gathering stories.

When the world slowed and the stage went quiet, I turned to writing — not to reinvent myself, and not because I planned to write a children’s book series, but because I wanted to capture the humor and heart I had seen in children for years, in the world I knew best.

That’s how Lilly McKee appeared.

Lilly isn’t me. But she carries pieces of me — the enthusiasm, determination, friendships, and community I love.

Dance taught me something important: we’re all trying.

Trying to get it right — and trying again when we don’t.

Trying to be brave enough to shine, and brave enough to stand beside others.

That’s what I wanted to put on the page for children: room to grow, and room to recognize themselves — not as perfect, but as becoming.

And if they laugh along the way?

That’s even better.

Mom would be proud.

— Nancy Paris

If this resonated with you, I’d love to stay connected.

Get a backstage pass to Lilly’s world — including a short, exclusive mini-adventure and little behind-the-scenes notes along the way.​