by Caryl Lewis (Author), Kanako Abe (Illustrator)
A spellbinding keepsake book about learning to say 'no' and the transformative beauty of becoming who you truly are--brought to life with exquisite papercut artwork.
This is the story of a girl made of paper: bright, kind, and eager to please. When she's told she should be beautiful, she folds herself into a flower. When she's told she should be clever, she folds herself into a fox. When she's told she should be "a shining example to others," she folds herself into a star. But no matter what she becomes, it never feels like enough--until she does something truly beautiful, clever, and wonderfully brave. She says, "No." This modern fairy tale is powerfully written by award-winning author Caryl Lewis and illuminated with exquisite papercut illustrations by debut artist Kanako Abe.
Presented as a beautiful hardcover, with an intricately embossed cover and gilded edges, this book is perfect for both kids and adults--an invitation to honor your strength, embrace your voice, and discover your true self. 'Powerful, moving and magical.' - Eloise Williams
'A real work of art with a powerful message about staying true to yourself. This is a book to read, share and treasure.' - Clare Fayers
'A poignant and truly moving tale of empowerment that will speak across generations.' - Sita Brahmachari
Author Biography
Caryl Lewis is a multi-award-winning Welsh novelist, children's writer, playwright, and screenwriter. Her breakthrough novel Martha, Jac a Sianco is widely regarded as a modern classic of Welsh literature and the film adaptation, with a screenplay by Caryl herself, went on to win six BAFTAs and the Spirit of the Festival Award at the Celtic Media Festival. Her latest book The Paper Girl--a fairy tale for children and adults alike, illustrated by paper artist Kanako Abe--was written for her daughter.
Based in Seattle, Washington, Kanako Abe specializes in the intricate art of kirie, a traditional Japanese term that translates to paper cutting. She transforms sheets of washi paper--hand-dyed washi with indigo, rust, or Japanese sumi ink--into exquisite designs using a precision knife. Hours of dedication and concentration are woven into each piece. Visit her website kanakoabe.art/and follow her on Instagram under the handle @abemanatee
Number of Pages: 64
Dimensions: 0.5 x 10.1 x 7.4 IN
Publication Date: October 06, 2026
