Lumi the Cloud Princess by Naza Semoniff

This review first appeared on Reader Views Kids. Read the Reader Views version here.

Lumi is the Cloud Princess, but what exactly does that mean for her and for the clouds? How can she best guide and protect them? Lumi embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Along the way, she encounters the Keepers of the world: The Wind, The Mountain, The Cloud, The Ocean, The Sun, and The Moon. Each imparts vital lessons to Lumi not only for herself, but also for her leadership and the clouds she leads. Then, her new knowledge and skills are put to the test, but can Lumi bring all these different lessons together?

Lumi the Cloud Princess by Naza Semoniff has one of the most enchanting covers I have seen in a long time. It immediately pulled me in. The cover perfectly sets up expectations of a magical and captivating world. Throughout the book, there are additional illustrations. While these also have enchanting elements, they bring in a welcomingly epic feel to Lumi’s adventures and lessons. There is something about the illustrations that may make readers catch their breath a little bit—and this is meant as the highest form of praise.

Author Naza Semoniff’s prose is both lovely and reflective. Although Lumi is going on a journey, the text leans towards thoughtful rather than thrilling. That is not to suggest that “Lumi the Cloud Princess” is boring, by any means. It is meant merely to set up the expectation of a more mindful rather than pulse-pounding experience. The way the book is structured and paced also allows for readers to take a moment with each and after each Keeper to think back on what Lumi—and perhaps themselves—has learned.

Ultimately, Lumi the Cloud Princess is a tale of self-growth. With each Keeper, Lumi learns a different lesson. She is later challenged to keep these lessons in mind during a crisis. The messages behind each lesson will not be easily lost to any reader and seeing how they can be implemented—even fantastically—is sure to stick with readers.

Lumi the Cloud Princess features a winsome cover and impressive illustrations throughout. Lumi’s reflective journey is perfectly carried by Semoniff’s lovely and thoughtful prose. The lessons imparted by each Keeper are sure to stick with readers long after they turn the final page.

Lumi the Cloud Princess by Naza Semoniff, Independently published