Interview: Phil and Lily Rosenthal on Parenting Lessons and Their New Father-Daughter Book

Trying something new is a big part of growing up, but for kids, even small milestones can feel like a big step. In their new children’s book, “Just Try It! Someplace New!” Phil Rosenthal and his daughter Lily Rosenthal explore a moment many families in Orlando know well: the first time a child spends the night away from home at Grandma’s house.

The story is part of their growing “Just Try It!“ series, inspired by the idea that childhood is filled with “firsts.” But at its heart, the book is really about the conversations that happen between parents and kids as they navigate those moments together.

As they prepare for a visit to Orlando this week, we spoke with Phil and Lily about writing as a father-daughter team, the parenting lessons behind the story, and why empathy and listening matter when kids face new experiences.

What inspired the story of a child staying at Grandma’s house for the first time?

Phil:
“We started thinking about how many milestones kids experience. There’s really an endless stream of them.”

The Rosenthals realized these moments (first sleepovers, first trips away from home, first big adventures) are everyday experiences that feel enormous from a child’s perspective.

That realization helped shape the story behind “Just Try It! Someplace New!“

Orlando is a city of firsts, like the first visit to theme parks. Why do you think stepping outside your comfort zone is an important lesson for families?

Lily:
“All kids, really all humans, have this fear of the unknown. I see these books as almost like mini self-help books for kids. They help broaden horizons.”

But Lily says the story’s goal isn’t to pressure kids into doing something extreme.

“We’re not saying kids have to go skydiving,” she says. “These are everyday situations that might feel scary at first. Staying at Grandma’s house could open up a whole new world.”

Phil, you’ve encouraged audiences to try new foods and experiences around the world. How did that message evolve into this story?

Fans of Phil Rosenthal may recognize the theme of curiosity from “Somebody Feed Phil” where he explores cultures through food.

Now that same spirit of openness is showing up in his children’s books.

Phil:
“We’re growing and branching out. There are so many ‘firsts’ kids experience.”

One surprising discovery has been how much the books resonate with parents. “We’re learning that kids’ books transcend age,” Phil says. “Adults connect with them too.”

Lily, what has it been like collaborating with your dad?

Lily:
“It’s fun to watch my dad living his best life. He worked really hard when he was younger, and now I get to see his efforts recognized.”

Working together has also shaped Lily’s love of storytelling. “He taught me everything I know about writing and storytelling.”

What do you hope parents take away from the book?

For Phil, one of the biggest parenting lessons in the story is about listening.

Phil:
“First of all, read to your kids. And secondly, the father character in the book doesn’t dismiss his daughter’s concerns about staying somewhere new.”

“Little Lily has genuine fears,” Phil says. “The dad doesn’t dismiss them. He doesn’t say ‘grow up.’ He sees the fear and tries to help.”

That empathy, he believes, is key to parenting.

“Your kids are always watching you. You model the behavior. If you want your kids to be kind, you have to show them kindness.”

What conversation do you hope the book sparks at home?

Lily:
“I hope kids can take away a little trick that helps them when they’re nervous.”

For example, bringing something familiar from home can make a new experience feel more comfortable.

“It doesn’t have to be exactly what happens in the book,” she says. “It’s about finding a solution that works for you.”

Meet Phil and Lily Rosenthal in Orlando

Families in Orlando will have a chance to meet the father-daughter authors during a special book event. Phil says he’s excited to return to the city and connect with readers.

“We had the best time in Orlando,” he says. “We’re really looking forward to seeing everyone again.”

Phil + Lily Rosenthal Author Photo Event
Date: Friday, March 13, 2026, 6 p.m.
Location: Barnes & Noble – Phoenicia Center, 7900 W. Sand Lake Road, Orlando
Cost: Free with purchase of the book
Celebrate the release of Just Try It! Someplace New! during this special event. Guests who purchase a signed copy of the book from this location on event day will have the opportunity to take a photo with the authors. registration is required.