Eva Chen, Instagram’s director of fashion partnerships, is coming out with a children’s book this year. Inspired by her daughter Ren, Juno Valentine and the Magical Shoes is a fairy tale adventure about a young girl who’s looking for her lost shoes.
In a Vogue interview, Eva said that she wanted to write a story that “went beyond the princess trope for girls.” She also made sure that she was creating something that her daughter would love. “When I was writing this book. I’d ask myself, ‘does this pass the Ren test?”
Not only that, Eva added a few Easter eggs for parents to discover while reading so they can be entertained too. “There are a lot of winks to fashion, as well as to my Instagram,” she said.
Eva also teased a few illustrations on Juno Valentine‘s official Instagram account. Needless to say that they’re very cute and child-friendly. Plus, they were made by Canadian-Filipino illustrator and animator Derek Desierto. “He had done a cheeky illustration of myself, and my daughter,” Eva said. “I messaged him, and I said, ‘crazy idea, but have you ever done a book?'”
According to Derek’s website, his work has been recognized by the Ottawa International Animation Festival, the National Cartoonist Society, and 9 Story Media Group. For some of his animation projects, you can check out his Vimeo account. Aside from being an artist, he’s also worked as a glasses designer.
We’ve also reached out to Derek to ask him about his experience on working with Eva. Keep your eyes peeled for that.
Juno Valentine and the Magical Shoes will be out on Nov. 6. You can already pre-order it on the website for your kids, nieces/nephews, or even for yourself if you love the illustration so much.
[Vogue]
Photo courtesy of Eva Chen’s Instagram account
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