"Plot and setting combine to give this fable a perennial feel.” – Publisher’s Weekly 

"Articulate narration and stunning illustrations ­harmonize to create a memorable, meaningful reading ­experience.” – School Library Journal

"Stunning illustrations utilizing the Japanese art of kirie—paper cutting—enliven this fabulistic feminist tale.” – Foreword Reviews

A spellbinding keepsake book about learning to say ‘no’ and the transformative beauty of becoming who you truly are—brought to life with exquisite papercut artwork. 
 
This is the story of a girl made of paper: bright, kind, and eager to please.
 
When she’s told she should be beautiful, she folds herself into a flower. When she’s told she should be clever, she folds herself into a fox. When she’s told she should be “a shining example to others,” she folds herself into a star.
 
But no matter what she becomes, it never feels like enough—until she does something truly beautiful, clever, and wonderfully brave.

She says, “No.”

This modern fairy tale is powerfully written by award¿winning author Caryl Lewis and illuminated with exquisite papercut illustrations by debut artist Kanako Abe. 

Presented as a beautiful hardcover, with an intricately embossed cover and gilded edges, this book is perfect for both kids and adults—an invitation to honor your strength, embrace your voice, and discover your true self.