Renowned author's latest book is inspired by origami cranes given to them in childhood, as seen on New York Times bestseller list
In the heart of New York City, a high school guidance counsellor named Chloe Hanako Quinn has a unique way of spreading kindness. She leaves little origami roses with uplifting messages in various locations, each one subtly changing lives[1].
This practice of Chloe's, a tradition passed down to her from unknown origins, finds its way into the pages of Evelyn Skye's latest novel, The Incredible Kindness of Paper. The book, which is Skye's 10th, centres around two childhood friends, Chloe and Oliver, who reconnect as adults through magical origami messages[1][2].
Skye, a New York Times bestselling novelist, draws inspiration from her own experiences. Her parents immigrated from Taiwan to the US, and her grandparents visited their family in California annually[3]. These personal connections to migration and the journey across oceans are reflected in the story, as the origami roses take on a symbolic journey of their own[4].
The writer had once made chains of origami cranes and strung them across her bedroom ceiling[5]. In The Incredible Kindness of Paper, these paper creations are more than just decorations; they are symbols of the power of small, deliberate acts of kindness to create unseen ripples of hope and healing[1].
Chloe, who lost her job, renews her origami tradition. One of these roses finds its way to a young man from her past, sparking a series of anonymous exchanges that heal old wounds and rekindle their bond[2][3].
The Incredible Kindness of Paper highlights themes of human connection, hope, and the impact of small acts of kindness in a divided world. It serves as Skye's "love letter" to those who wonder whether kindness still matters, reminding us that even in the darkest times, small acts of generosity can make a difference[1].
Evelyn Skye has written novels across children's, young adult, and adult categories, but The Incredible Kindness of Paper stands out as a unique and heartfelt narrative[3]. The novel, which was inspired by Skye's own observations of kindness, is a poignant symbol of connection and hope rooted in small acts of generosity in everyday life[1][2].
One of Skye's previous books, Damsel, was adapted into a Netflix film. With The Incredible Kindness of Paper, she continues to weave enchanting stories that resonate with readers and inspire them to look for the kindness in their own lives[6].
[1] The New York Times [2] Publisher's Weekly [3] The Guardian [4] Booklist [5] School Library Journal [6] Variety
- Evelyn Skye's latest novel, The Incredible Kindness of Paper, expands Chloe's origami tradition beyond her local community, using the symbolism of the paper creations to explore themes of human connection, hope, and the power of small acts of kindness.
- Apart from her novels, Evelyn Skye's work extends to various genres including fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden, with her home often decorated with origami art, a testament to her belief in the transformative power of kindness represented by these objects.
