Initial Planning
When I started my planning, I wanted to focus on shape language and simple, yet beautiful scenery. I was inspired by the graphics of Sky: Children of Light, looking for a feeling of comfort and discovery. I imagined the characters as small, still learning to be part of the greater world, adding an oversized scarf and jacket to the main character. Although it is not in my initial planning, I ended up including a neck accessory for all the characters, finding it to be a unique trait for their world. Additionally, I later added a travel sack for the main character, holding a single red flower as a symbol of hope and growth.
Creating the Concept
Wanting to support the children I had interacted with over my time in high school, I focused the concept of Paper Airplanes on the importance of community, hoping to provide a sense of security in the idea that we could all be there for one another. I messed around with metaphors of the red flower, colors, and of course, paper airplanes, as mediums to convey growth, harmony, and flight.
Honors for paper Airplanes
Selected by IBPA (Independent Book Publishers Assoc.) for the front cover of “Publishers Weekly!” (Aug 25th issue)
Featured by Bookbub for “Authors Recommended for You” on Sep 25, 2025
Displayed in the IBPA Cooperative Booth at Frankfurt International Bookfair from Oct 15-19, 2025
Mom's Choice Award - Gold award in family-friendly media, products and services
Moonbeam Book Award - Silver Medal in "Best First Book - Picture"
Living Now Book Award - Silver Medal in "Children’s Inspirational Picture Book"
NYC Big Book Award - Distinguished Favorite in the Childrens-Inspirational category
"The book is beautifully illustrated, with visuals that complement the tone and emotion of the story. The message is clearly delivered, with the readers engaged from start to finish. In short, Paper Airplanes is more than a story. It's an idea worth feeling at any age."
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"it's a wonderful book with beautiful illustrations and heartfelt storytelling. Jennifer Li's poetic words and dreamlike artwork remind us that dreams take flight when we lift each other up. the book is gentle but powerful-perfect for readers of any age needing a dose of inspiration. a truly special debut from a talented young voice."
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""Paper Airplanes" is a tender and beautifully illustrated story that captures the emotional depth of youth, the power of dreams, and the quiet strength of human connection. With poetic language, expressive visuals, and a gentle tone, it reminds me of all ages that hope and kindness can carry us farther than we ever imagined."