Publication
About the Book
Written by 10-year-old Francis He and illustrated by formerly homeless artist MY, this picture book follows Naomi as she learns to support those without homes. At the heart of Francis’s work is the idea that when we look away from people experiencing homelessness, we make them “invisible,” while empathy—choosing to truly see them—can transform lives through simple acts of kindness.
Author & Illustrators
Francis He is a student at Hong Kong International School (HKIS) who is passionate about caring for and helping others. Since Grade 3, he has been an active member of the HKIS Service Club, taking part in community service and learning firsthand about the realities faced by people experiencing homelessness in Hong Kong. With the support of his teachers and classmates, Francis received the James A. Handrich Service Leadership Endowment Fund for three consecutive years. He used these resources to lead school activities that provided food and daily supplies to people in need, create a website titled Visible Homeless to raise public awareness, develop a digital game called Invisible No More, and ultimately complete this picture book. Through these efforts, Francis hopes to inspire more children to learn, care, and take actions to support people experiencing homelessness in Hong Kong.
MY is an artist currently experiencing homelessness. He transforms his life story into powerful and hopeful artworks, expressing emotions and the story of life through his brushstrokes. Every stroke of his pen is a testament to life, telling the stories of those who share similar experiences. He hopes his work can help more people understand those experiencing homelessness, foster empathy and compassion, and inspire greater awareness and support from society.
Creation of the Book
How I Chose the Name
The name “Visible Homeless” reflects our mission to shed light on homelessness and make the struggles of the homeless visible to all. By reading the book, kids can learn about the realities of homelessness and become empowered to make a difference in their communities.
Inspirations
The idea truly came to life when I created a story for my little sister Naomi and her classmates. I printed out screenshots from my video game to create a story featuring Naomi as the main character, introducing a group of three-year-olds to homelessness.
The response was incredible —many of Naomi’s classmates even wanted to buy this “book”. That moment sparked the idea of writing a children’s book that introduced young readers to homelessness through kindness and empathy.
The book is shaped by my personal growth and many real-life experiences. As the eldest of four siblings, I chose my sister as the protagonist — not only to thank her for inspiring this book, but also to encourage her — and young readers everywhere — to learn about kindness and empathy.
This book is dedicated to all
those who are temporarily without a home, with the hope that they will soon find a place to belong; and to everyone who believes that even the youngest children, through the smallest acts of kindness, can make a real difference.
Media & Events
Turn the Page. Start the Change
We are seeking support to fund the ongoing sale and distribution of the book. Contributions will cover essential expenses, including printing, distribution, development. Your support will enable us to reach a broader audience and create meaningful change in how homelessness is perceived and addressed.
Please click on the link below to order yours today!
Thank you for considering supporting our project!
Together, we can make homelessness “Invisible No More” and build a brighter future for a
Special Thanks
This book – and everything behind it – would not have been possible without the support, encouragement, and inspiration of so many remarkable people. To those I could not name individually, please know that your love and support have always inspired me to grow and have taught me the importance of giving back to my community.
