Since his debut picture book in 1998, Jimmy Liao has consistently enchanted readers with new releases every year. His imaginative and heartwarming works, translated into 20 languages, have solidified his reputation as Taiwan’s most celebrated illustrator in the international picture book market. Over the years, Jimmy’s books have inspired a multitude of adaptations, including plays, films, TV dramas, and animated movies. Jimmy channels his deepest emotions into his books. Jimmy has successfully created numerous popular picture books for adult readers, demonstrating that picture books are not only for children. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of his creations and uncover the stories behind each one.
The Blue Stone
Synopsis: The tale begins with a magnificent blue stone lying quietly in a peaceful forest, content with the birdsong, floral fragrances, and the dappled light filtering through the leaves. This tranquil existence is shattered when a devastating fire ravages the forest, leaving behind a charred, blackened stone. However, after relentless rains cleanse the stone, its original blue beauty emerges once more, symbolising resilience and rebirth.
The blue stone’s lonely journey is both mystical and poignant. It is split in half, with one piece embarking on an extraordinary odyssey through various places, touching the lives of many but always yearning to return home. Each transformation of the stone, from a statue of an elephant admired in a museum to a carved bird in an elderly woman’s garden, and even a moon, a cat, and a necklace, reflects different aspects of the human experience and the profound emotions tied to each phase of life.
The Blue Stone was officially released at the Bologna Book Fair in the spring of 2006 and was published in six languages worldwide at the same time. This book stands out as Jimmy’s only work featuring non-human and non-animal protagonists, pushing the boundaries of picture book storytelling through innovative creative forms and visual elements (Locus Publishing).
Unsurprisingly, The Blue Stone is a beautifully crafted tale that transcends the boundaries of conventional picture books, delivering a profound narrative that speaks to readers young and old. Jimmy uses the blue stone as a metaphor for unwavering faith and the countless separations one faces in life. Despite breaking and transforming repeatedly, the stone remains faithful to its heart, symbolising the strength of spirit, regardless of life’s challenges.
One particularly moving component of the story involves the stone becoming a cherished statue for a lost child and later, a companion for a lonely elderly woman. Each chapter of its journey is marked by longing and a deep desire to reunite with its other half in the forest. The stone’s journey takes it to distant cities, crowded museums, serene gardens, bustling ports, and even to the bottom of the sea, constantly transformed and reshaped, yet always carrying the ache of separation from the loved one.
Jimmy’s beautiful illustrations enhance the emotional depth of the story, bringing to life the various settings and characters the blue stone encounters. Ultimately, The Blue Stone is a story about the nature of life, the inevitability of change, and the enduring hope of returning to one’s origins. It concludes on a hopeful note, with the stone, now reduced to a grain of sand, finally reuniting with its other half in the forest after countless years of wandering.
Jimmy Liao’s The Blue Stone is a fascinating, richly illustrated tale that resonates deeply with me. It invited me to reflect on my own journeys, separations, and the ultimate hope of finding my way in the world.
#NameTheTranslator Sarah L. Thomson
2008, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 9780316113830
The Sound of Colors
Synopsis: The Sound of Colors is an impressive and visually stunning book that tells a story of a young girl who is blind but has a great love for colors. The story explores how the girl’s imagination and creativity are sparked by the sounds of different colors. The Sound of Colors was so popular that a music album was released to enrich readers’ audio-visual experience.
The illustrations are beautifully delivered with a vivid and luminous quality that transfers the beauty and richness of color, despite the girl’s blindness. It is a work of art that seamlessly weaves together storytelling and illustration. It invites readers to see the world through the eyes of the blind girl and experience the beauty and wonder of colors in a new way. The book’s style is unique and masterful, showcasing Jimmy Liao’s remarkable talent and imagination.
The Sound of Colors is a visual and poetic masterpiece that transcends traditional storytelling, creating a profound connection with readers through its vibrant illustrations and lyrical narrative. Reading this book is like walking on a gorgeous rainbow bridge that uses bright colors and poetic words to guide me through the journey.
Jimmy’s magic brush brings an imaginative subway world to life. Every page of The Sound of Colors offers a unique visual and emotional experience. The illustrations are rich and detailed, inviting everyone to pause and explore the subtle differences of each scene. The accompanying text adds layers of meaning, enhancing the emotional impact of the visuals. Together, they create a symphony of color and words that keeps readers engaged in the book deeply.
Liao’s stories always go beyond the surface, guiding readers to discover the hidden light within their hearts. In a busy and noisy world, for example, it’s easy to lose sight of our original intentions and the simple beauties of life. The Sound of Colors acts as a guiding light, illuminating our path and helping us rediscover the forgotten beauty in life’s corners.
This book is more than just a visual delight; it’s a journey of self-discovery and reflection. Liao’s imaginative subway world serves as a metaphor for our own lives, filled with twists, turns, and unexpected encounters. Through the main character’s experiences, we are reminded of the importance of staying true to ourselves and finding joy in the small moments. It’s a book that invites readers to slow down, reflect, and find beauty in the chaos. Whether you’re navigating your own life’s subway or simply looking for a moment of peace, this book is a perfect companion on your journey.
#NameTheTranslator Sarah L. Thomson
2006, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 9780316939928
The Moon Forgets
Synopsis: It is a sweet story full of imagination. It tells a story of a magical world where the moon accidentally falls from the sky. Adopted by a compassionate little boy, the moon gradually regains its strength under his tender care. To help the moon recover its memory, the boy embarks on a series of adventures, taking the moon to various places: the rooftop, a train ride, and even the top of a car.
As the moon begins to grow larger and stronger, a deep bond forms between the boy and his celestial friend. However, their time together is not meant to last forever. With great reluctance, the boy watches as a strong wind carries the moon back into the sky, returning it to its rightful home. The story explores themes of perseverance, creativity, care, the power of friendship, and the bittersweet nature of letting go.
Other than the well-recognised Jimmy style, one of the most distinctive aspects of this book’s illustration style is the use of silhouettes. The characters are often depicted in silhouette form, creating a sense of mystery and wonder. The use of contrast between light and dark also adds to the dreamlike quality of the illustrations.
The ever-changing moon is the unchanging inspiration for countless artists, poets, and authors. It kindles creativity and imagination throughout the history of arts. The Moon Forgets is my personal favorite. It is inspired by his personal experiences during a challenging period after his battle against leukemia. In his own words, the story was conceived during his nights practicing Qigong in a primary school playground, where he found solace under the ever-changing moon. (Locus Publishing)
During the days of his recovery from illness, for five years, Jimmy would visit a school playground to practise Qigong frequently. This simple routine was his only “outdoor activity” amid a time filled with fear and uncertainty about his health. Surrounded by old apartments, the playground offered a limited view, but the bright moon in the night sky became a constant companion. Sometimes it shone brightly in a clear sky; other times, it was obscured by clouds, or it appeared yellow or grey. The moon became a silent confidant to whom he shared his innermost thoughts and fears.
Reflecting on those nights, Liao felt indebted to the moon and believed it deserved a story. He wanted to create a book that would bring happiness, both to himself and to his readers. One night, while practising Qigong and gazing at the moon, the idea for The Moon Forgets was born.
In The Moon Forgets, Jimmy uses his signature style of whimsical illustrations and poetic storytelling to weave a tale that captures the moon’s mysterious and comforting presence. This book not only celebrates the beauty and tranquillity of the moonlit nights but also serves as a heartfelt tribute to those silent companions that provide solace during difficult times in our life.
#NameTheTranslator Sarah L. Thomson
2009, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 9780316113908
A Chance of Sunshine
Synopsis: This is a story that beautifully explores the complicated dance of chance and destiny in the lives of two individuals. She always walks to the left, and he always walks to the right. Through countless missed encounters, happiness finally finds them by accident. Yet, fate intervenes, threatening to break the fragile thread of love that had just begun to weave between them.
She continues to walk to the left, and he to the right, both wondering if love ever truly existed. This moving story is Jimmy Liao’s first long graphic novel that delves into the complex emotions between men and women. The relationship between the characters is intricately designed, shaping the entire story.
A Chance of Sunshine may be Jimmy’s most popular work! The book has been adapted into movies, musicals and TV series. This masterpiece began with a neighbour’s electric drill that disrupted Jimmy’s drawing and the noise made him daydream and let his thoughts wander freely. The next-door noise eventually gave birth to this tale that touches many people’s hearts.
A Chance of Sunshine by Jimmy Liao is a captivating exploration of serendipity, love, and the unpredictable twists of fate that shape our lives. Through the lens of two protagonists who always walk in opposite directions, Liao delicately weaves a narrative that is as poignant as it is hopeful.
In this book, Liao masterfully illustrates the emotional journey of the couple as they navigate the complexities of their intertwined lives. From their initial missed encounters to the fleeting moments of happiness they share, each page is imbued with a sense of longing and possibility.
What sets A Chance of Sunshine apart is Liao’s ingenious storytelling technique, which incorporates clever page connections, careful line work, and vibrant colours. These elements not only enhance the visual appeal of the book but also deepen the richness of the story. As the two characters grapple with the question of whether love truly exists, we are drawn into a world where destiny and choice intersect in unexpected ways.
Overall, A Chance of Sunshine is a book that will linger in the hearts of readers long after they have turned the final page, reminding us that of life’s uncertainties, there is always the possibility of finding love and happiness in the most unexpected places.
1999, Creative Co
ISBN: 9781568461335
The Rainbow of Time
Synopsis: Her mother’s departure marks the beginning of a lonely young girl’s lifelong love affair with the world of film. One day, she encounters a boy. In parting they promised each other: no matter what happens in future, they will meet again in the movie theatre. Set against the timeless backdrop of classic and familiar European films, so begins a story of three generations of love, loss and faith that will thrust one girl from childhood into the heart of womanhood. As she soon discovers, real life is often far more poignant than the movies.
Jimmy, once again, masterfully intertwines themes of love, loss, and faith across three generations, capturing the essence of human experience. As time shifts swiftly, much like the scenes of a movie, the plot goes through the rapid passage of life. Today’s energetic youth can quickly become tomorrow’s grey-haired elder, and moments of joy and sorrow flicker by with unpredictable speed. The book reminds us of the universal truth that time waits for no one, and that life’s moments, much like a movie, are too brief and precious.
Through the powerful illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, we are invited to reflect on the impermanence of life. Liao’s narrative uncovers the nature of birth, ageing, illness, and death, portraying a deep understanding of human existence. The story suggests that our purpose is not merely to achieve or accumulate, but to cherish and live fully in the present. Just as a movie ends after a couple of hours, life too can come to a close unexpectedly, urging us to embrace and savour each moment to avoid future regrets.
“I like movies. How great would it be if all our sadness could just stay in a movie theatre!” – Jimmy Liao
(我喜歡電影。如果人生哀傷的時候都可以在電影院裡流光，那有多好！)
#NameTheTranslator Wang Xinlin and Andrea Lingenfelter
2019, Balestier Press
ISBN: 9780993215438
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
‘JIMMY S.P.A. OFFICIAL SITE’. Jimmy S.P.A., https://www.jimmyspa.com/en. Accessed 28 July 2024.
Online, 大塊. ‘月亮忘記了（精裝）（2007年新版） | 幾米 | 繪本圖文書 | 書籍’. 大塊 Online, https://www.locuspublishing.com/book/detail/765. Accessed 28 July 2024.
大塊文化. 幾米《月亮忘記了》：最孤獨的時候，最溫暖的陪伴｜女人迷 Womany. 22 Aug. 2014, https://womany.net/read/article/5356.
—. ‘藍石頭（平裝∕二版） | 幾米 | 繪本圖文書 | 書籍’. 大塊 Online, https://www.locuspublishing.com/book/detail/756. Accessed 28 July 2024.
Wang, Guoliang. Popular (超人氣). Photography.
Eleanor Duggan is a passionate children’s book reader, a storytelling enchantress, an aspiring globetrotter, a part-time book crafter, and an impassioned foodie who is a cooking disaster. She is more known as an international school teacher-librarian and the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL) Regional Director for East Asia. She is a Taiwanese with a Belgian soul and is currently enjoying her life as a citizen of the world with her daughter and their 2 one-of-a kind cats. You may find her via The Third Culture Librarian
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