Looking Back Life Was Beautiful: A Celebration of Love from the Creators of Drawings For My Grandchildren

By Sophie Bowman

A heartwarming tribute to intergenerational love, creativity, and connection. Based on the beloved Instagram account @drawings_for_my_grandchildren, this beautifully illustrated book captures the enduring bond between Korean grandparents Grandpa Chan and Grandma Marina and their grandchildren—through watercolor, storytelling, and memory.

Book Synopsis

What began as a digital bridge between continents has blossomed into a global celebration of family. In Looking Back Life Was Beautiful, readers are invited into the lives of Chan and Marina, who began posting drawings and reflections to stay close to their grandchildren. Their story—told through Chan’s delicate watercolors and Marina’s poetic reflections—spans decades of love, resilience, and shared wisdom. From childhood memories in postwar Korea to quiet moments of joy in Brazil, this book is a testament to the power of art and storytelling to connect generations.

Perfect For

• Fans of illustrated memoirs and family storytelling
• Grandparents, parents, and children seeking meaningful connection
• Readers of Humans of New York and Letters to My Grandchild
• Gift-givers looking for a heartfelt keepsake

Praise & Recognition

“Enchanting!”
—BBC

“A beautiful way to stay in touch with grandchildren.”
—The Telegraph

“This is a story about love and transformation.”
—NPR

About the Creators

Grandpa Chan (Chan Jae Lee) and Grandma Marina (Kyong Ja Ahn) were both born in Seoul in 1942 and met while studying education at Seoul National University. After immigrating to Brazil, they raised a family and later began sharing their life stories and artwork online. Sophie Bowman, the translator, is a scholar of Korean literature and a gifted storyteller who brings their voices to English-speaking readers with warmth and clarity.

Other Related Titles

• Humans of New York by Brandon Stanton
• Letters to My Grandchild by Lea Redmond
• Drawings for My Grandchildren (Instagram project)
• Dear Grandchild, This Is Me by Miriam Hathaway

Product Details

• Publisher: TarcherPerigee
• Publication Date: October 20, 2020
• Format: Hardcover / eBook
• ISBN: 9780593188672
• Pages: 292