Lily is impulsive, falling foul of Mother Angel at distressingly regular intervals, but ripped gown or torn training wings, she is utterly charming. Not surprisingly, little girls (up to 6) adore Lily, doubtless not only for the simple little stories but also for Aki Fukuoka's heavenly illustrations, especially the cover designs with their ample sprinkling of silver stars.
In Lily Gets Her Wings, the Littlest Angel is competing with Tisa for the last place at Amelia's Angel Academy.
Tisa is determined to win at any cost, much to Lily's dismay. Of course, it all works out in the end.
Lily breaks yet another rule ("Angels fly, they don't climb") in Lily Has a Secret, by clambering over the boundary fence to investigate a noise she has heard. The cover gives a clue to Lily's secret and, as with Lily Gets Her Wings, there is a satisfactory ending for tender-hearted tinies.
Elizabeth Pulford is a prolific writer of books for children and young adults, and she also has written one adult novel. The Lily series is an attractive addition to her portfolio.
- Gillian Vine is a Dunedin writer.
