Julia Kuo’s books offer a mesmerising blend of cultural richness, family bonds, and captivating storytelling. Through her beautiful illustrations and thoughtful narratives, Kuo brings to life the essence of Taiwanese heritage while exploring universal themes of love, curiosity, and the beauty of everyday moments. We will dive into some of her enchanting works. Each book highlights her exceptional ability to weave together art and story, inviting readers on a heartfelt journey across different cultures and experiences.

I Dream of Popo

Synopsis: When a young girl and her family emigrate from Taiwan to America, she leaves behind her beloved popo, her grandmother. She misses her popo every day, but even if their visits are fleeting, their love is ever true and strong. (Text & Image, Goodreads)

This collaboration between Livia Blackburne and Julia Kuo is a tender and vivid story that beautifully intertwines cultural heritage, family bonds, and the bittersweet nature of distance. It is a heartfelt tribute to everyone’s “Popo” (maternal grandmother) and resonates deeply with me who also has a special place in my heart for my Popo.

From the moment you open the book, Kuo’s illustrations captivate you with their rich colours and textures. They evoke the nostalgia of vintage Taiwanese drawings while incorporating modern elements like Taipei 101, creating a visual tapestry that seamlessly blends tradition and contemporary life. The iconic Grand Hotel stands alongside timeless village scenes, representing a journey through Taiwan’s diverse landscapes. These illustrations are more than just pictures; they are a vibrant celebration of Taiwan’s unique culture. Each image is a testament to Kuo’s talent and her deep affection for her heritage. The careful attention to detail ensures that every scene is both relatable and profoundly moving.

The story itself is a touching narrative about the enduring connection between the little girl and her Popo, despite the physical distance that separates them. Mandarin phrases are thoughtfully sprinkled throughout the text, adding an authentic touch that brings the story to life. Each page is imbued with cultural references, from the tiles in the kitchen and Doraemon figurine (which caught my daughter’s attention right away) guarding the TV to the lush depiction of Taiwanese food—an essential element of the country’s identity. Kuo masterfully expresses that food is not just food but a powerful symbol of love and connection for all Taiwanese.

Reading I Dream of Popo is an emotional journey, particularly for those of Taiwanese descent or anyone with fond memories of a beloved grandparent. The gentle lullabies, Lunar New Year traditions, and everyday language transport me back to my own cherished experiences. The book serves as a beautiful reminder that while time and distance may separate us from our loved ones, the bonds of family and culture remain firmly.

In my opinion, I Dream of Popo is more than just a children’s book; it is a timeless tribute to the enduring love between a grandmother and her grandchild. Kuo’s storytelling, enriched by her stunning illustrations, creates a vivid portrait of Taiwanese culture that will resonate with readers of all ages. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to connect with their roots or simply appreciate a beautifully told story of family and tradition.

I Dream of Popo

Written by Livia Blackburne, Illustrated by Julia Kuo

2021, Roaring Brook Press

ISBN: 9781250249319

Let’s Do Everything and Nothing

Synopsis: Love can feel as vast as a sky full of breathtaking clouds or as gentle as a sparkling, starlit night. It can scale the tallest mountains and reach the deepest depths of the sea. Standing side by side with someone you love, the unimaginable can seem achievable. But not every magical moment is extraordinary. Simply being together is the best journey of all. (Text & Image, Goodreads)

Let’s Do Everything and Nothing is a delightful celebration of the simple yet deep joys that come from spending time with loved ones. Though the book centres on the touching bond between a mother and daughter, it also holds a special significance for Kuo, who penned it during an unforgettable moment in her life—after a mountain-climbing adventure with her then-to-be husband, envisioning their future together!

From the very first read, Let’s Do Everything and Nothing struck a chord with me, reflecting the intimate and loving relationship I share with my own daughter. The story beautifully captures the essence of valuing both the exciting and the quiet moments in life. Whether it’s embarking on thrilling adventures or savouring the peaceful days at home, Julia illustrates that the true joy lies in the shared experience and the cherished companionship.

The book’s artwork is nothing short of stunning. Each page is a visual treat, filled with intricate details that bring the story to life. I found particular delight in spotting little surprises like the sight of Tatung rice cooker and ㄅㄆㄇㄈ (bopomofo), which added a layer of cultural authenticity and personal connection to the illustrations. These subtle touches not only enrich the story but also offer a sense of joy and discovery with each read.

I spy with my little eye: Tatung rice cooker and ㄅㄆㄇㄈ (Kuo)

Kuo’s themes of embracing the simple pleasures and the value of quality time remind us that there is as much happiness to be found in doing everything together as there is in doing nothing at all. The quiet moments of togetherness are just as significant and memorable as the grand adventures, highlighting the beauty of everyday life shared with those we love.

Let’s Do Everything and Nothing

Written by Julia Kuo

2022, Roaring Brook Press

ISBN: 9781250774347

Luminous: Living Things That Light Up the Night

Synopsis: Kids 4 to 8 will marvel at the brightly glowing creatures and other living organisms in this stunning, poetic, and science-based exploration of bioluminescence. When it’s dark out, we need light to see. But what if your body could make its own light? From acclaimed author-illustrator Julia Kuo comes a remarkable picture book about bioluminescence, the light made from living things, and its many forms: fireflies and foxfire, fungi and glow-worms, deep-sea fish and vampire squids. Kuo’s radiant art portrays a young child and adult discovering different bioluminescent creatures, accompanied by simple lyrical text and informative sidebars that reveal fascinating scientific facts about each of them. An introduction to an extraordinary natural phenomenon, Luminous shines a light upon how truly wondrous the world is. (Text & Image, Goodreads)

Julia Kuo’s Luminous: Living Things That Light Up the Night is a dazzling exploration of bioluminescence that skillfully weaves together scientific facts and enchanting storytelling. Perfect for young science enthusiasts and curious adults, this book offers bite-sized information on the natural phenomena that light up our world.

The book follows a mother and daughter as they delve into the night to discover the magic of bioluminescent animals and plants. Each page is a visual feast that brings the mysterious beauty of fireflies, foxfire, glowworms, and various sea creatures to life. The use of bright and colourful hues against the dark backgrounds creates a striking contrast that captures the beautiful glow of these creatures, making me feel as if I am walking outside at night.

The text is both accessible and informative, with brief expository paragraphs that define scientific concepts in a way that is helpful without being overly challenging. This makes the book an excellent educational tool, encouraging both young and mature readers to appreciate and understand the incredible world of bioluminescent creatures. Kuo’s ability to blend lyrical storytelling with factual information ensures that readers are both entertained and educated.

Dual languages for both beginners and mature readers (Kuo)

What truly sets Luminous apart is its ability to inspire awe and curiosity about the natural world. The visual appeal of the book is undeniable, drawing everyone in and providing an unforgettable introduction to our wonderful world. The book’s format, with its engaging illustrations and well-balanced text, makes it a fantastic resource for teachers and parents looking to introduce complex scientific concepts in an approachable manner. 

Luminous: Living Things That Light Up the Night

Written by Julia Kuo

2022, Greystone Kids

ISBN: 9781771648882

The Sound of Silence

Synopsis: “Do you have a favourite sound?” little Yoshio asks. The musician answers, “The most beautiful sound is the sound of ma, of silence.” But Yoshio lives in Tokyo, Japan: a giant, noisy, busy city. He hears shoes squishing through puddles, trains whooshing, cars beeping, and families laughing. Tokyo is like a symphony hall! Where is silence? Join Yoshio on his journey through the hustle and bustle of the city to find the most beautiful sound of all. (Text & Image, Goodreads)

The Sound of Silence is one of the early works of Julia’s illustrations that got my attention. It is a beautifully crafted picture book that captures the elusive and serene concept of silence, set against the vibrant Tokyo, Japan. As someone who first encountered this book while living in Osaka, Japan, I was immediately drawn to its calming front cover and intriguing title. As a Teacher Librarian, the idea of silence is especially comforting, making this book a special read for me.

The story follows a young boy named Yoshio as he embarks on a quest to find the sound of silence in the bustling city of Tokyo. The setting is rich with detail, blending contemporary landscapes with traditional housing styles, which bring a sense of familiarity and nostalgia for anyone who has experienced Japan. The illustrations are beautifully balanced, showcasing both the modern and the traditional, with hiragana and kanji thoughtfully incorporated into the artwork. This attention to cultural authenticity makes the book a true gem, offering a non-stereotypical view of Japan that enriches global perspectives in children’s literature.

Goldsaito’s narrative is deeply enriched by the Japanese concept of ma, which refers to the space between sounds, or silence. This universal curiosity about silence is explored in a way that is accessible and engaging for children, making it a valuable introduction to both the idea of inner peace and Japanese culture. The specificity of language used to describe different sounds adds a poetic quality to the text, inviting readers to listen and appreciate the world around them in new ways.

The illustrations by Julia Kuo complement the text perfectly, creating a harmonious blend that enhances the reading experience. Each page invites us to pause and reflect, mirroring Yoshio’s journey to find silence within himself. The visual depiction of Tokyo, with its busy streets and serene gardens, is both vivid and tranquil, making it easy to understand Yoshio’s fascination and determination.

The book not only introduces readers to Japanese culture but also imparts a universal message about the beauty of silence. It is a delight for both children and adults. Its thoughtful narrative, lovely illustrations, and cultural authenticity make it a standout addition to any collection.

The Sound of Silence

Written by Katrina Goldsaito, Illustrated by Julia Kuo

2016, Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

ISBN: 9780316203371

BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Blackburne, Livia, and Julia Kuo. I Dream of Popo. First edition, Roaring Brook Press, 2021.

‘I Dream of Popo’. Goodreads, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52516004-i-dream-of-popo. Accessed 9 June 2024.

Instagram. Julia Kuo. https://www.instagram.com/juliaskuo/p/CYo7D-zpZc6/?locale=zh-TW&hl=am-et&img_index=1. Accessed 9 June 2024.

‘Let’s Do Everything and Nothing’. Goodreads, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/56978098-let-s-do-everything-and-nothing. Accessed 9 June 2024.

‘Luminous: Living Things That Light Up the Night’. Goodreads, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60491035-luminous. Accessed 9 June 2024.

‘The Sound of Silence’. Goodreads, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28118479-the-sound-of-silence. Accessed 9 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 

GLLI Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in posts on this site are the individual author’s and are not indicative of the views of Global Literature in Libraries Initiative.