Vivian Cheng

Vivian Cheng is a Chinese Canadian author and illustrator who specializes in picture books and comics about introspection and interpersonal relationships. A core pillar of her children’s literature is the understanding that children have complex inner lives. Her books promote self-acceptance and a growth mindset.

Vivian’s work is an optimistic take on the coexistence of comedy and tragedy that comes with living a human life.

Chinese Enough

Muimui is a second-generation Chinese Canadian panda cub who struggles with her cultural identity. When she questions whether she’s Chinese enough, Mama teaches her a lesson about Chinese language, history, and cuisine that forever shakes her perception of what being Chinese actually means.

Illustrated in watercolour and ink, Chinese Enough is a picture book written as a love letter to the Chinese diaspora. At its core, the book is about how unlearning shame and practising self-acceptance creates the strongest foundation to form a healthy relationship with cultural heritage

Help, I’m a Monster!

Nina doesn’t want to be a monster, but it’s hard not to see herself as one after upsetting her older sister. When an apology doesn’t fix the situation, can Nina make things right with her sister, or should she accept that she will always be a monster, no matter what she tries?

Help, I’m a Monster! is a picture book about the effect of self-perception on behaviour and actively choosing every day to grow into someone who fosters healthy interpersonal relationships.

The Ultimate Revenge Plan

When Kiara’s closest friendship ends explosively, there is only one thing that can soothe her broken heart: revenge. Kiara was a dedicated friend, so it’s easy to turn her dedication towards crafting the ultimate revenge plan that will make her ex-BFF feel all the pain she does. Love broke Kiara, so it makes sense that hate should fix her. But will she still be Kiara after she gets revenge?

Illustrated with watercolour and pencil crayons, The Ultimate Revenge Plan is a picture book about practicing empathy and bravely choosing not to add cruelty to a harsh world.

Why Angels Weep

Angels have always watched over humanity but as a removed guiding power. At least, that is what the rules say. Kyrie is a young angel called for a disciplinary meeting with the leader of all angels, Sera, for intimacy with humans. After revelations that rattle her very identity, Kyrie must choose between divinity and humanity.

Why Angels Weep is a comic that details how power does not equal control. It presents a world where even perfect, all-powerful angels must pray.