Jennifer Guo’s Remembering Wai-Po

Author Jennifer Guo is a current student at the University of Michigan. She is double majoring in Psychology and Organizational Studies, minoring in music (follow @jenniferguomusic on Instagram!), and pursuing the Cappo Sales Track. She is also a member of the University of Michigan Ballroom Dance Team and was on the E-board for AFSPUM (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at U of M) this past year. During the summer of 2022, Jennifer volunteered with New Hope Center for Grief Support and served as a camp counselor for their kids camp, “Ruffled Up in Grief.” Jennifer is passionate about bringing hope and healing to people’s lives and spreading joy through creativity.

At age 18, Jennifer became a published author and illustrator of her children’s book Remembering Wai-Po. She says the book “tells the story of a young Chinese American girl who has a hard time after she loses her beloved grandmother (Wai-Po). Through the discovery of a recipe—and through her own resilience—Lily figures out how to stay connected to her grandmother.”

Jennifer adds, “I hope children can take away from this book that everyone’s journey through grief looks different, and their emotions are valid. I also wanted to highlight the significant role of grandparents in my culture and how my grandma was the main person who raised me and why losing her was so hard. My parents were immigrants to the US and often busy with work so my grandma played a huge role in helping out the family and shaping who I am today. I want kids who look like me (Asian/Chinese American) to see culture in a book (food, language, etc.) and feel understood and know that they’re not alone.”

Jennifer’s book has touched many lives. Through her strong drive and exuberant passion for helping others deal with their own grief and find joy, Jennifer is making many incredible impacts on those around her.

Remembering Wai-Po can be purchased on the Barnes and Noble website. For bulk orders, please email jenguo123@gmail.com.