Yulu's Linen

Written by Cao Wenxuan, illustrated by Suzy Lee and translated by Helen Wang, Yulu’s Linen begins with a little artist, Yulu, and her proud father. Yulu’s skill and passion is clear, and her parents are happy to support her. But when Yulu receives a special piece of linen canvas for a project, things don’t go the way she expects. This particular canvas does not want to behave: The paint keeps running, and day after day, Yulu’s art is destroyed. A story of artistic experimentation and determination, Yulu’s Linen may leave one a little perplexed, but you’ll be inspired nonetheless. The standout star of Yulu’s Linen is Lee’s art. Alternating thick charcoal lines with thin sketchy lines and vague shapes with intense detail, each illustration is a visual feast. Yulu’s Linen is mostly black and white, with occasional swashes of watercolor that are thoughtfully off-center. Lee throws in strategically placed texture to add complexity and draw the eye, and varies perspectives with just the right amount of carelessness—which only a true artist can pull off. You’ll love every page. Cao’s narration is vivid, but without flowery rhyme or fancy language. Instead, Cao tells Yulu’s story with an earnest voice, letting readers in on both Yulu’s feelings and the plot in a straightforward manner. The honesty of the parents’ voices is particularly refreshing. Yulu’s Linen wraps up on a positive, if slightly sudden note. Adult readers might crave a little more explanation and resolution surrounding Yulu’s ill-tempered canvas, but children will likely have no problem suspending their disbelief. Yulu’s Linen will also speak to anyone who has, on occasion, been frustrated with their own projects and ideas. Whether read as a magical fable or a symbolic exploration of internal artistic struggle, Yulu’s Linen is an intriguing and visually beautiful experience.