Lily’s Crossing by Patricia Reilly Giff is a 1997 young adult novel set during World War II. The story revolves around Lily Mollahan, who lives in Rockaway, New York, with her father and grandmother. As the war unfolds, Lily’s best friend, Margaret, moves away, leaving Lily feeling lonely. She befriends Albert Orban, a Hungarian refugee searching for his sister, Ruth, and they bond over shared experiences and the challenges of war. Through their friendship, Lily confronts her own grief and learns the importance of resilience and companionship. The novel portrays the enduring hope and strength found in friendship during difficult times, ending on an uplifting note as Lily and Albert are reunited, and Ruth joins them in Rockaway.