Yuna's Cardboard Castles

This imaginatively illustrated story demonstrates how art, along with courage and a little bit of playfulness, can be a powerful tool to communicate and connect in a new country where you don't speak the same language.

Fold, fit, tuck . . .

Yuna and her family have just moved to the United States, and she doesn't speak English yet. At first, her attempts to catch the attention of the neighborhood kids get lost in translation, but when she shows that she can do something very special with paper, a whole new world unfolds.

Marie Tang and Jieting Chen have brought Yuna's origami creations to life in this whimsical, magical picture book, where the language of play can bridge the language barrier and build new friendships. Back matter includes information about the origin of origami and instructions for kids to fold their own paper boat.

Marie Tang was born in Hong Kong, raised in New York City, and a resident of Shanghai for over a decade. She proudly tells tales of the grit, tenacity, and compassion of the Asian people.

Jieting Chen is an illustrator, animator, and designer with years of experience. She has produced and directed several award-winning short animation projects. Her illustrations are strongly influenced by Oriental paintings.