Ruobing Li

This project began as a deeply personal journey—an exploration of emotional distance, self-protection, and the quiet yearning for connection. While developing the story, I drew inspiration from CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and bibliotherapy, aiming to create a picture book that could gently resonate with those who, like me, struggle to express vulnerability and closeness.

The narrative follows a little mouse who builds a spaceship to find a magical fruit on a faraway planet, believing it will bring him true happiness. But after an unexpected crash, he is helped by others—and slowly discovers that softness, support, and connection were around him all along.

Through writing, drawing, risograph printing, and reflection, Arrival became more than a story—it became a quiet tool for healing, and a small voice for those with avoidant attachment tendencies. I hope it invites readers to pause, to feel, and to realize they are not alone.