About this Event
Join us at Mrs. Dalloway's Bookstore on Sunday, February 8 at 4:00 PM when children's book author Bo Lu comes to the store to share her latest picture book for kids Ren's Pencil. Bo will be joined in conversation by Taylor Sterling and will sign copies of her book after the presentation.
to preorder a copy of Ren's Pencil.
Preorders receive an exclusive Wand Pencil () inspired by the book!
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—from Bo Lu, Ezra Jack Keats Illustrator Honor-winning author-illustrator of Bao’s Doll.
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.
is an award-winning author-illustrator who moved from bustling Taipei to suburban Kansas at age seven, knowing just three English words: “apple,” “banana,” and “so-so.” Before she could speak fluently, drawing became her bridge between worlds. Her new picture book, Ren’s Pencil (Abrams, 2026), explores how imagination can connect worlds and help us find belonging. Her debut picture book, Bao’s Doll, received an Ezra Jack Keats Illustrator Honor.
is a writer, creative director, and the author of Moonbow, a bimonthly arts and culture publication that explores picture books as an art form and discusses why adults should take them seriously. It encourages adults to think deeply about picture books by explaining how they work and why they are important. She creates unique opportunities for readers to engage with the texts from diverse perspectives through events, book clubs, and interviews with artists, writers, and creators.
THIS EVENT is free but registration is requested. Registration ends at 4:00 pm on February 8.
BECAUSE SEATING is limited, please register only if you plan to attend.
DUE TO SPACE limitations, we may not be able to accommodate every person at an event, so early registration is encouraged.
WALK-INS will be accommodated only if space allows.
WE ASK that attendees arrive between 3:45 and 4:00 PM for the event.
PLEASE leave your non-support companion animals at home.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Mrs Dalloway's, 2904 College Avenue, Berkeley, United States
USD 0.00
