Ren's Pencil

A picture book by Bo Lu (American/Taiwanese), Ezra Jack Keats Illustrator Honor-winning author

A beautifully illustrated tale of immigration and imagination, about the struggle to fit into a new place, make new friends, and see yourself in new stories

When her family moves to a new country, Ren is heartbroken to leave Popo and her magical stories behind. In her new home, nothing feels familiar—until Ren discovers that, with her pencil, she can bring to life what she can't find the words to say.

Through drawing, she bridges the gap between her two worlds and transforms her loneliness into a meaningful connection.

Inspired by the childhood experiences of award-winning author-illustrator Bo Lu, this heartfelt picture book is a celebration of resilience, friendship, and finding a sense of belonging through art and storytelling.

Starred Review

“Lu’s picture book intimately explores an immigrant child’s complicated feelings while honoring artistic expression and emphasizing how creativity can bring comfort even in difficult circumstances. Share this with readers to inspire them to find a magic that speaks beyond words and be the hero in their own stories."
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

“Lu’s uplifting tale about the reality-changing power of imagination…Jewel-toned pencil, watercolor, and digital images pop from saturated indigo and forest-green backgrounds that brighten as the child finds her way in this reassuring story about drawing one’s own happy outcomes.”
—Publishers Weekly

Author Bio

Bo Lu

Bo Lu moved from the bustling streets of Taipei to the quiet suburbs of Kansas as a little girl, knowing just three English words: Apple, Banana, and so-so. Before she could express herself in English, her drawings became the bridge between her two worlds. She now lives in San Mateo with her husband and their two daughters. Her debut book, Bao’s Doll, won an Ezra Jack Keats Illustrator Honor and tells the story of a girl who, after stealing a doll, creates one that ultimately becomes the bridge connecting her and her immigrant mother.