Generously donated by the book's author, Nancy Chen Baldwin

Complete book title: One Thousand Layers of Water and Clouds: The Tale of A Taiwanese Daughter

Generously donated by the book's author, Ed Lin

This is a Chinese ink painting (國畫) of the hardy plum blossom. Plum blossoms represent the island’s interminable spirit, blooming even in the harshest conditions. The inscription 「寒梅傲雪 島嶼長青」 translates to “Winter plum blossoms brave the snow; the island flourishes evergreen”. Golden stamens dot the center of each blossom (點蕊) and symbolize the prosperity yet to come. May this painting bring strength, good fortune, and lasting prosperity to the lucky recipient.

Generously donated by Cheryl Wu- A pediatrician turned artist, Cheryl has held leadership positions in myriad organizations that work to uphold the rights of those most vulnerable among us. She was also the first female president of the NY/NJ/CT Chapter of the North American Taiwanese Medical Association. As an artist, she has exhibited across the United States and Italy; Cheryl is also a spoken word artist, a writer, a painter, and a mentor.

Every piece of this puzzle carries a story of mountains, voices, and vibrant democracy. Complete it, and you hold not just an island, but a living spirit: Taiwan.

On the western edge of the Pacific lies Taiwan—an island shaped by resilience, creativity, and democracy. From coast to peak, from Taipei 101’s flexible strength to the timeless endurance of Queen’s Head Rock, the island’s spirit shines through every scene.

At dawn, the Alishan Forest Railway winds past the Scared Tree. Yushan—Jade Mountain—stands tall, a quiet symbol of perseverance. Its wildlife—the Formosan black bear, clouded leopard, Formosan Macaque, Mikado pheasant, Taiwan blue magpie, Formosan sambar deer, and Formosan sika deer—reminds us that this spirit runs wild and free. And when night falls, Taiwan comes alive with laughter and the irresistible aromas of stinky tofu, soup dumplings, oyster omelets, beef noodles, and pineapple cakes.

Generously Donated by: Hsiao-wen Lo

Each piece celebrates a culture where curiosity and democracy thrive. Sip, discover, and imagine—here, fun, creativity, and freedom are always on the menu.

Bubble tea has taken the world by storm, and it all began in Taiwan—a self-governing island that knows how to mix tradition with innovation.

From traditional tea houses to bustling city cafés, bubble tea became more than a drink —it became a culture. A mix of flavor, fun, and freedom that captures Taiwan’s spirit: creative, welcoming, and full of life.

As you assemble the puzzle, wander through terraced tea fields, explore colorful bubble tea flavors, and admire elegant tea sets. Look closely—there’s a hidden detail waiting to be found: a tea leaf shaped like Taiwan.

Generously donated by Hsiao-wen Lo

Every piece of this puzzle carries a story of mountains, voices, and vibrant democracy. Complete it, and you hold not just an island, but a living spirit: Taiwan.

On the western edge of the Pacific lies Taiwan—an island shaped by resilience, creativity, and democracy. From coast to peak, from Taipei 101’s flexible strength to the timeless endurance of Queen’s Head Rock, the island’s spirit shines through every scene.

At dawn, the Alishan Forest Railway winds past the Scared Tree. Yushan—Jade Mountain—stands tall, a quiet symbol of perseverance. Its wildlife—the Formosan black bear, clouded leopard, Formosan Macaque, Mikado pheasant, Taiwan blue magpie, Formosan sambar deer, and Formosan sika deer—reminds us that this spirit runs wild and free. And when night falls, Taiwan comes alive with laughter and the irresistible aromas of stinky tofu, soup dumplings, oyster omelets, beef noodles, and pineapple cakes.

ADDED BONUS Digital item:

“The Taste of Democracy” Experience Manual -An Organizer's Handbook for Sharing Taiwan's Democratic Journey Through Food, Stories, Conversation, and Practice

Generously donated by Hsiao-wen Lo

Each piece celebrates a culture where curiosity and democracy thrive. Sip, discover, and imagine—here, fun, creativity, and freedom are always on the menu.

Bubble tea has taken the world by storm, and it all began in Taiwan—a self-governing island that knows how to mix tradition with innovation.

From traditional tea houses to bustling city cafés, bubble tea became more than a drink —it became a culture. A mix of flavor, fun, and freedom that captures Taiwan’s spirit: creative, welcoming, and full of life.

As you assemble the puzzle, wander through terraced tea fields, explore colorful bubble tea flavors, and admire elegant tea sets. Look closely—there’s a hidden detail waiting to be found: a tea leaf shaped like Taiwan.

ADDED BONUS Digital item:

“The Taste of Democracy” Experience Manual -An Organizer's Handbook for Sharing Taiwan's Democratic Journey Through Food, Stories, Conversation, and Practice

Generously Donated by: Hsiao-wen Lo

This reflects the parallels that the artist sees between New York and Taiwan—two places shaped by islands, migration, and iconic symbols of protection, strength, and hope. For example, the Statue of Liberty echoes Mazu, while the Wall Street Charging Bull finds a counterpart in Taiwan’s Golden Tiger God. Each figure in the main visual is paired with a corresponding icon from the other place, creating a dialogue between the two cultures. By bringing these figures together, the illustration creates a shared visual language and expresses a blessing carried across the sea—for those who live between cultures, homes, and distant shores.

This piece is inspired by Data (大符), which is a large-format blessing talisman in Taiwanese tradition. Printed on yellow paper, its imagery combines deities, sacred seals, and auspicious symbols form a miniature sacred space. It is traditionally displayed in homes to protect the household, ward off misfortune and also invite blessings.

Generously Donated by Yayun Huang. 

Yayun Huang is a graphic designer and artist whose work is shaped by life between Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and New York City. She has over 20 years of design experience in New York, including working alongside renowned designers Milton Glaser and Deborah Adler. Her practice brings together design, painting, and Taiwanese cultural traditions and personal memories in dialogue with the energy of New York.