Tiny Troubles: Nelli’s Purpose (Harper Children’s, 2024)
Written and illustrated by me!
Based on little comics that I’ve been drawing since 2016, Tiny Troubles explores questions about friendship, existentialism, how to be a good person (or plant), looking for your purpose, and getting over the fact that you have short legs and can’t go very fast.
Like all tiny succulents, Nelli and Worthi have VERY busy schedules—napping in the sun, sipping on water drops, and filling the days doing nothing.
But one morning, Nelli wonders: Is there more?
Have you ever heard of a purpose?
Hmm . . . Is it a baked potato?
That doesn’t sound right.
So what is it?
Order: HarperCollins | Amazon | Bookshop
I Am Golden (Feiwel & Friends, 2022)
Written by Eva Chen
Instant New York Times–bestseller!
⭐ “A shining affirmation of Chinese American identity.” – Kirkus
⭐ “Luminous, gently textured digital art by Diao includes thoughtful, recognizably Chinese cues.” – Publishers Weekly
⭐ “Through dazzling illustrations, Diao brings to exuberant life best-selling Chinese American author Chen’s message of finding love and power in one’s differences.” – Booklist
⭐ “[I]t is Diao’s illustrations that make abstract ideas accessible … the languid watercolor-like illustrations are comfortable in straddling school scenes and those of dragons and phoenixes.” – School Library Journal
Order: Books of Wonder (signed) | Amazon | Bookshop
I Am The Wind (Page Street Kids, 2020)
Written by Michael Karg
⭐ “A gorgeous, breathtaking experience.” – Kirkus
Kirkus Reviews’ Best Picture Books of 2020
“In this vibrant and beautifully illustrated book, the wind tells of its adventures, whisking readers along with it. … The wind takes readers all the way to Everest’s peak, to Africa’s jungles, and across oceans until it arrives back where the story began, at the feet of a curious child.” – Booklist
"Playful, evocative text and art define this creative nonfiction picture book... I Am the Wind serves as an age-appropriate introduction and global ode to this restless force of nature." – Shelf Awareness
Sarah and the Big Wave (Henry Holt, 2021)
Written by Bonnie Tsui
The true story of Sarah Gerhardt, the first woman to surf the giant waves at Mavericks – one of the most biggest and most dangerous surf breaks in the world.
A Junior Library Guild selection
⭐ “The pictures capture the majesty of the waves, and the underlying theme of determination helps make this a timely and enjoyable offering.” – Booklist
“Diao’s illustrations are extraordinary.” – Kirkus