Synopsis: Based on an actual story, a girl with cerebral palsy feels trapped in her body and unable to communicate. It causes her to grunt in anger, scaring off children and making it impossible to make friends. When her art teacher straps a paintbrush to her head, the children nickname her “Woodpecker Girl.” But the girl begins to paint her thoughts and feelings and her talent bursts through. Illustrator Huang mimicked the girl’s style for the book and the girl’s real paintings are displayed in the backmatter. (Goodreads)

Woodpecker Girl is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that tells the inspirational story of a young girl named Yipei Huang, who overcomes her physical limitations (cerebral palsy) to express herself through her art creations. Written by Chingyen Liu and I-Tsun Chiang, and brought to life with illustrations by Heidi Doll, this book is a warming story about determination, creativity, and the power of dreams.

Liu and Chiang’s storytelling is both sensitive and empowering. They handle the subject with care and ensure the message is uplifting. Yipei’s journey is evidence of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of following one’s dreams, no matter the odds. The story gracefully navigates through themes of perseverance, the support of loved ones, and the transformative power of art.

Heidi Doll’s illustrations are a significant highlight of the book. Her artwork is vibrant and emotive, capturing the essence of Yipei’s inner world and the beauty she creates with her headband brush. The illustrations not only complement the story but also elevate it, providing a visual representation of Yipei’s dreams and struggles. Doll’s use of colour and detail brings Yani’s paintings and experiences to life, making the book a visual feast for readers of all ages.

Woodpecker Girl is more than just a story; it serves as an educational tool for children and adults alike. It fosters empathy and understanding by providing a window into the life of someone with a disability. It also encourages discussions about inclusivity, the importance of nurturing talents, and the value of perseverance.

Yipei’s story is an excellent example of how we can overcome personal challenges and achieve greatness. It can inspire children and adults to pursue their passions regardless of their circumstances and to view obstacles as opportunities for growth and creativity.

Woodpecker Girl

Written by Chingyen Liu and I-Tsun Chiang/ illustrated by Heidi Doll

2020, Reycraft Books

ISBN: 9781478869559 

Read Aloud by Ridgefield Library 

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Liu, Chingyen, et al. Woodpecker Girl. First edition paperback., Reycraft Books, 2020.

‘Woodpecker Girl | Juvenile Fiction of Social Issues, Va…’. Goodreads, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51163189-woodpecker-girl-juvenile-fiction-of-social-issues-values-virtues-a. Accessed 11 June 2024.

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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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