Meet Tilly The Swan
A True Story
Tilly the Swan” is a heart-warming children’s book based on the true story of a rare and very special swan born in London’s Docklands. Unlike her brown siblings, Tilly hatched with golden creamy feathers a unique genetic trait that made her stand out from the very beginning. Through her adventures, friendships, and brave little heart, Tilly shows children that being different is something to be celebrated, not feared.
The story follows Tilly as she explores the docks, makes unlikely friends, and forms a beautiful bond with Ella, a young girl who sees Tilly’s uniqueness as her greatest strength. Together, they learn about kindness, courage, and the importance of caring for animals and the world around us.
Filled with gentle lessons about empathy, acceptance, and celebrating individuality, this book helps children understand that every creature no matter how small or different deserves love and compassion. It also introduces young readers to real wildlife behaviours in a simple, magical, and accessible way.
“Tilly the Swan” is more than just a story; it is a message of kindness for children and families everywhere, inspiring little readers to embrace others just as they are and to remember that standing out can be the most beautiful thing of all.
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Milo
Tilly's Friends
Meet Tilly’s wonderful friends, Ella, her kind human helper, a cheeky baby seagull, and a playful gosling who turn every day at the docks into a new adventure!”
Flick
Ella
Meet the Real Tilly
Meet Tilly – The Extraordinary
Little Swan Who Stole Our Hearts
Tilly hatched in May 2025, one of nine tiny cygnets born to first-time parents in the London Docklands. From the moment she cracked open her shell, it was clear she wasn’t like the others. While her siblings were soft brown, Tilly arrived with creamy golden feathers and a spark in her eyes, a rare little swan with an even rarer spirit.
From her very first days, she was bold, curious, and wonderfully brave. She explored fearlessly, led her siblings on gentle adventures, and showed remarkable intelligence for such a tiny creature. Whenever danger appeared or her family needed help, Tilly stepped forward like a true big sister, spreading her little wings as if she were twice her size.
Watching Tilly grow was like watching a small miracle unfold every day. She was playful, clever, and endlessly full of surprises never once blending into the background. Instead, she shone.
Over time, the author formed a deep bond with the swan family, but Tilly was different. She was magnetic, bright, and full of heart. She stood out not just because of her rare colouring, but because she carried a light inside her that made everyone who met her smile.
Tilly is real. Her courage is real.
And her story continues to inspire children and adults alike to embrace their differences, stay brave, and always let their light shine.
Meet Tilly's Family
A family full of love, feathers, and lots of adventures
