Santiago and Great Bear: Pre-Order Your Copy Today!

I’m happy to share the cover of Santiago and Great Bear, a friendship written in the stars, published by Free Spirit Publishing, June 30, 2026.

Read more below about the BOOK LAUNCH for my debut picture book!

I’ve had so much fun working on this book and I can’t wait for you to see it!

“Santiago and Great Bear tells the story of Santiago, a city boy who feels lonely after moving to the countryside. At the sight of the only constellation he knows, Santiago wishes for a new friend. When he is losing hope his wish will ever come true, Great Bear falls from the sky. But this new friend can’t stay forever. In this beautiful tale of friendship and silver linings, debut author-illustrator Lisa Johnston Hancock uses a limited palette that perfectly matches the sparse text. The story also includes an informational component, in which the phases of the moon are explored through illustrations. Back matter is included to further examine constellations, specifically Ursa Major, also known as the Great Bear, and the use of stars for navigational purposes. Readers learn about the beginning and endings of moon phases, and friendships.”

Santiago and Great Bear is now available for pre-order, in hard back picture book format and ebook, at Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Also through the Teacher Created Materials website, where teachers and librarians can receive a discount. If you order through Bookshop.org, a portion of the proceeds goes to your favorite indie bookshop.

Thank you to my agent Ana Crespo and the team at Free Spirit.

I received confirmation today, that The Haunted Bookshop, in Mobile, AL is going to host a launch party for Santiago and Great Bear, with a meet-and-greet, champagne for adults, capri suns for kids, story time and book signing. Please save the date for Tuesday, June 30, 2026, 5:30 pm.

I’m planning other events in California and select cities in the U.S. so stay tuned for more to come.

Drop your email address below to stay updated on book events! Thank you for your continued support.