The stories about Billy the Hedgehog began in 2015 when Margaryta wanted to teach her son Stanislav how to overcome fears, laziness, and make friends. Billy grows up alongside the writer’s son. Each year, Billy faces new challenges: is a fancy car really the key to happiness? Should we compliment others? What happens if you drink too much soda? Why is it important to save resources? 

When I grow up, I’ll become a hug teacher. I’ll visit schools and teach kids how to hug. Before hugging someone you barely know, you should ask for their permission. But as for family, they should be hugged all the time.

Billy the Hedgehog

The tale about Hedgehog Billy starting first grade was published in second-grade textbooks of Ukrainian schools.

In 2022, Billy was forced to leave the Magic Forest after it was attacked by the fire dragons. Just like nearly a million Ukrainian children, Billy had to adapt to life in a new country, learn a new language, follow news from his homeland, and cope with feelings of helplessness and vulnerability.  

These tales now reflect the global and Ukrainian reality, with themes about shattered inner safety and fading native language, capturing the essence of a world transformed.