From New York Times bestselling
author of Eyes
That Kiss in the Corners, Joanna Ho, and critically acclaimed illustrator,
Cátia Chien comes a moving, powerful picture book
about the life and work of activist and artist, Ai Weiwei.

He [Ai Weiwei] felt the life jackets
and an idea curled and crested through his fingertips.
The way it always did.


Told in Joanna Ho’s signature lyrical writing, this is the
story that shines a light on Ai Weiwei and his
journey, specifically how the Life Jackets exhibit at Konzerthaus
Berlin came to be. As conditions for refugees worsened, Ai Weiwei
was inspired by the discarded life jackets on the shores of Lesbos
to create a bold installation that would grab the attention
of the world.


Cátia Chien masterfully portrays the intricate life of
Ai Weiwei with inspirations from woodblock printing and a special
emphasis on the colour orange, the same colour of the life jackets
that became a beacon of hope. Through Cátia’s
dynamic and stunning illustrations, we see how Ai Weiwei
became the activist and artist he is today while proving the
power of art within humanity.





the perfect way to introduce artist and activist, Ai Weiwei,
to children

a stunning gift for the young art-lovers in your life

an informative and powerful book.

Illustrated by: Catia Chien