“Cherry Mo’s author visit was nothing short of perfect for our sixth-grade middle school students. Even without the language barrier, they could easily relate to the feelings she experienced being in a new school and trying to make friends at the age of 11. I was especially impressed that she shared about having OCD and that she didn’t let that stop her from pursuing her dream to become a professional artist. Although the students loved the interactive drawing part of the presentation, my favorite was hearing how she took a simple drawing and persevered for three years to create an absolutely beautiful picture book. I cannot wait to read the finished product when it is released in June!” — Brevard Middle School teacher, 2024
“Cherry’s presentation left a lasting impression on me. Her book resonates deeply with my own experiences, especially the nostalgia of home my Grandma’s packed lunches bring me. Your narrative, shedding light on the journey from Asia to the US at a young age, is both refreshing and much-needed. I’ll be pre-ordering your book and look forward to the day I can have it signed by you. Your courage in sharing your story and representing Asian immigrant families is truly commendable.” — Brevard High School student, 2024
“Cherry’s presentation was engaging and informative. The students really enjoyed choosing what she drew at the end. She also had good command of the audience, reminding them to be quiet a few times. I think it was a great experience for our 6th graders!” — Brevard Middle School teacher, 2024
“The group of kids I had were very impressed with her presentation! They had nothing but great things to say about it and raved about how talented she was to both illustrate and write a book. I think it was a great opportunity for them to be able to listen and see an author’s work.” — Brevard Middle School teacher, 2024
“For a book with very minimal words, it speaks volumes. The immigrant experience is illustrated brilliantly, viscerally. The reader can feel the emotions as the illustrations leap off the page.” — Moss Kids Book Project
“Round-faced, endearing Jun is utterly expressive; her sadness upon returning home each day is especially palpable…A touching immigrant story that hits the heart—and stomach.” — Kirkus Reviews
“This lushly illustrated book takes readers on a journey of memory and hope, highlighting the power of food to build connections across language, space, and time.” — Joanna Ho, New York Times Bestselling author of Eyes that Kiss in the Corners
“Lushly illustrated but with carefully sparse text, Home in a Lunchbox is a sensitive and warm debut. This book is a reminder for grownups of how differences can bring us together, and a story for children about making friends, bad days, and the warmth and comfort food from home can bring. This story reminds us all how anyone can feel lonely, but small gestures can travel for miles. A beautiful book.” — Erin Stead, Caldecott Medal–winning illustrator of A Sick Day for Amos McGee