Lilian is a seventeen-year-old girl from Hong Kong with an uplifting story to tell. From the outside looking in, Lilian is quite privileged. Her parents have great jobs, she lives in an amazing apartment in New York City, and she’s attended the area’s best private schools.

But privilege does not guarantee an easy life, and Lilian reflects with honesty, humor, and maturity on both her own difficulties and her relationship with her mother. In Lilian’s own words, I have experienced some rough ups and downs that taught me a lot. My darkest periods in hindsight might have been the biggest learning experiences in my life. I wish my mom had a book like this when I went through my dark period. It would have made both our lives so much easier!

Written from Lilian’s perspective, this is an authentic, heartwarming story of a girl who overcomes challenges by remaining true to herself, has the courage to ask for help when she needs it, and ultimately chooses happiness in the end. Written with depth and compassion, Painting Lilian has the potential to inspire and instruct both teenage girls and mothers alike.