Books Like Ren's Pencil
Families who loved Ren's Pencil by Bo Lu often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Ren's Pencil by Bo Lu often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to find their voice in a new environment, whether that is a new school, a different neighborhood, or a move to a new country. Ren's story speaks directly to the quiet ache of feeling like an outsider who cannot yet bridge the gap between where they came from and where they are now. It is a gentle, comforting choice for children who process their emotions internally or through creative outlets rather than through talking. Ren finds herself in a world where nothing feels right and the language is unfamiliar, leaving her longing for the grandmother and the stories she left behind. The book beautifully demonstrates how a simple pencil can become a tool for connection, turning solitary art into a bridge toward new friendships. For parents, it offers a visual and emotional roadmap for helping a child navigate the difficult 'in-between' phase of major life transitions while celebrating the resilience found in self-expression.
