Every single page of Bao’s Doll, the debut kid-lit book by author-illustrator Bo Lu, is something to marvel at. Some spreads are soaked in vivid colors from edge to edge, while others intentionally incorporate vast amounts of white space for a dramatic effect. The illustrations alone make it something of a masterpiece. But then there’s the story—an emotional and original tale of a little girl who so desperately wants a doll that she steals it—unlocking a powerful conversation and dialogue with her mother, who ultimately makes her a doll in her likeness. The story is based on a childhood scenario that Lu herself faced, moving from Taiwan to Kansas as a child and coveting a specific white, blonde, blue-eyed Barbie doll. Based in San Mateo, California and raising two adorable daughters of her own, Bo recently filled us in on her impressive debut book alongside other Mother Essentials that are as colorful, intentional, and creative as the woman herself.

Bao’s Doll. “Inspired by my childhood, Bao’s Doll is about a young girl who longs for a doll her mother disapproves of—so much so that she steals it. This creates a rift of silence between them but ultimately opens the door for the mother to share stories of her childhood. Together, they create a doll that reflects both of them. I hope to create space for families to explore their own histories and feelings together.” Bao’s Doll, $17.66, Bookshop and Amazon.

Walking Without a Podcast. “I began walking without distractions whenever I felt creatively blocked. It allowed buried emotions to surface and helped clear my mind. Often, a sense of clarity or ‘knowing’ would come to me during these walks—but only when I resisted the urge to fill the space with podcasts or music.”

Suicoke Sandals. “I’m the type who complains, ‘My feet hurt’ if I decide not to wear my Hokas for one day. But these sandals are my go-to for hotter days! They are perfect for walking all day and, not to mention, they come in all sorts of dreamy colors!” Suicoke Sandals, $100, SSense.

Janessa Leone Bucket Hat. “This hat goes everywhere with me. It’s super easy to pack, and the brim is the perfect size for just the right amount of shade.” Felix Bucket Hat, $247, Janessa Leone.

Kinto Travel Tumbler. “These tumblers keep my black teas or my probiotic sodas at the right temperature and they are so easy to clean!” Kinto Travel Tumbler, $25.80, Amazon.

CALM Magnesium Powder. “My acupuncturist recommended this years ago to help with sleep, and I haven’t looked back since. It’s tasty, and helps me feel calm and unwind at night. As a bonus, it also keeps things moving smoothly in my belly the next day!” Raspberry-Lemon CALM Magnesium Powder, $28, Amazon.

Kuretake Gansai Tambi Watercolor Set. “I love this curated watercolor set inspired by the Art Nouveau movement. Exploring watercolor has been a fun way for me to experiment with my need for control—letting the paint flow and take on a life of its own. The colors in this set already work beautifully together, which helps with decision fatigue.” Kuretake Gansai Tambi “Art Noveau” 24-Color Watercolor Set, $20.56, Blick.

Women’s Circle. “I’m part of a wonderful circle of women for writing children’s books, and another for personal support. These regular gatherings of female friendship are my lifeline! We draw, craft, and share what’s on our minds. It’s truly one of the things I cherish and look forward to the most.”

7115 by Szeki. “I first stumbled into this beautiful minimal store in Copenhagen where Szeki offered me a cup of tea, and I have been a fan ever since. The Signature Curve Legged Trouser and the Sumo Puffer are impeccably crafted, blending simplicity with timeless style. I also love that they have communal lunches and naps! They are doing everything right.” 7115byszeki.com

Yoto Mini. “Some nights it’s just easier to hand the kids a Yoto and let it take over the storytelling while you get to be horizontal somewhere.” Yoto Mini, $69.99, Amazon.

Model Clay. “Aside from drawing, this is our favorite breakfast-adjacent activity to do with the kids on the weekend. Everyone is engaged and having fun. It’s easy to clean up, and you can even make up a story with all the characters.” Arteza 42-piece Tools & Accessories Polymer Clay Art Supply Set, $31.79, Amazon.

The Farmer’s Market. “I get over-the-moon happy whenever I pick up fresh fruits at the farmer’s market. Growing up in Taiwan, I was spoiled with amazing fruits. Now, my girls and I are obsessed with the strawberries from Rodriguez Farm—highly recommend if you’re in the Bay Area!”

Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Strengthening Hair Oil. “Ever since postpartum, my hair continues to fly the coop. A friend recommended rosemary oil, which helps with scalp circulation and reduces DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss. I find this blend to be perfect to leave on for either 30 minutes or overnight.” Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Strengthening Hair Oil, $9.99, Target.

Muji Packing Cubes. “We recently started using packing cubes, and somehow it’s made my husband excited to pack—so this is a win.” Packing Cubes, $9.90, Muji.

JetKids by Stokke. “This ride-on suitcase has changed the way we travel! It means that we can easily move through the airport with our jet-lagged kids sans stroller. The in-flight bed feature also maximizes space, allowing the little ones to stretch out comfortably.” JetKids by Stokke Bed Box, $229, Bloomingdale’s.

Doodle Board. “We’ve always had these drawing tablets, but it was a game changer when we started bringing them to restaurants. They keep the little ones entertained and make dining out much more enjoyable.” ORSEN 10 Inch LCD Doodle Board Writing Tablet for Kids, $17.98, Amazon.

For more MOTHER ESSENTIALS, peep our recent features on artist Suzy Ultman, Super Smalls founder Maria Duenas Jacob, Lanee Slaughter of MAMA & OG, the mamas behind MAJO IDEAS, HAWKS founder Emma Flanders, celebrity hairstylist Kylee Heath, APRIL SHOWERS of Afro Unicorn, crafty mamas ERIN BOYLE AND ROSE PEARLMAN, writers CLEO WADE and ALEX ELLE, comedian JENNY SLATE, poet MAGGIE SMITH, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream co-founder LAURA O’NEILL, author and doula BRANDI SELLERZ-JACKSON, designer CLARE VIVIER, Miles & Milan founder SHENNEL FULLER, GRACE NA of Pistola, and the designers behind MILK TEETH.