Ellis

The voice of the island that cradled millions of dreams.  An evocative first-person narrative where Ellis Island itself speaks, telling the story of the twelve million souls who crossed its threshold in search of a new life. A universal tale of identity, memory, and the courage to begin again.

Ellis Island is not just a place of stone and cement; it is a witness to history. From the late 19th to the mid-20th century, it was the “Old Auntie” through whom everyone had to pass, the gateway to hope, the filter of fear, and the first embrace of a new world.

In this lyrical and deeply moving picture book, the island itself takes the stage to remember: the families in line, the chalk marks on coats, the tangled languages, and the threads of wool left behind by those who stayed. Through Sara Belancini’s poetic prose and Aneta Lukianska’s hauntingly beautiful illustrations, we see the faces of those who dared to dream.

Now a Museum of Immigration, the island’s voice may seem silent, but for those who listen, its story resonates more powerfully than ever in our modern world.

Key Selling Points:

– Strong civic value: a powerful tool for schools and libraries to discuss migration, roots, and empathy, connecting 20th-century history to contemporary global issues.

– A unique point of view: by giving a voice to the island itself, the story achieves a solemn, compassionate, and “monumental” tone that transcends individual anecdotes.

– An excellent educational resource: rich in authentic details, like the medical chalk marks and the specific atmosphere of the processing halls.

– Bologna Illustrator’s Exibition 2026: illustrated by Aneta Lukianska, shortlisted for the Bologna Children’s Book Fair Illustrators Exhibition 2026.

– Universal appeal: a book that speaks to anyone with a family history linked to the journey towards a better future.

Author & Illustator:

Sara Belancini (author)
Sara Belancini works as an editor, proofreader, and graphic designer. Her writing is known for its poetic sensitivity and ability to tackle complex historical themes with grace.

Aneta Lukianska (Illustrator)
Aneta Lukianska is an award-winning Polish-born illustrator based in the UK. With a background as a mental health doctor and a Master’s in Illustration from Falmouth University, she brings a deep psychological layer to her work. Her unique blend of digital and analog techniques earned her a prestigious spot in the Bologna Children’s Book Fair Illustrators Exhibition 2026.

Publication: April 2026