Carren Jao, author
Carren Jao is a Chinese Filipina storyteller. She is deeply interested in finding the common threads between people of different cultures and amplifying the representation of Filipino and Chinese culture in children's books. Her stories are like blankets that provide warmth and comfort for one, but can also be shared with many.
Her written work is inspired by her multi-generational immigrant experience — first with her Chinese immigrant family in the Philippines and then now as a new immigrant to the United States — as well as her friendships and travels.
She is the co-lead for the ANHPI Affinity Group at Julie Hedlund's 12x12 Picture Book Challenge. She is also a member of the Authors Guild, Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, and a 2023 PB Rising Star mentored by Sylvia Chen. She is the 2022 winner of Lee & Low's New Voices Award. Carren is represented by Kaitlyn Sanchez at Bradford Literary.
Lee & Low New Voices Award winnerBooks
Maya Breaks It Down
Illustrated by Aphelandra · Forthcoming
Author programming
Now booking · virtual and in-person · storytimes, heritage, and writing presentations
See visit options →Events
2026
October 4 · 11 a.m.
Join Carren for a storytime event at Third Place Books, Seward Park. Preorders available with Third Place Books!
October 8 · 11 a.m.
Kidsquest Museum storytime. Books available at the event.
October 18 · 4 – 5:15 p.m.
8th Annual Filipino American International Book Festival — Packed with Love: The Balikbayan Box in Filipino American Picture Books, a panel discussion with Christine Alemshah and Faith Kazmi.
October 23
In conversation with HealthPoint.