about the book
Pixelated Pearl
A Proudly Nerdy, Joyously Girly Story
Pearl is a girl who loves pink and pixels... But even with all of the support from her friends and family, she still feels self-conscious about being both nerdy and girly.
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Meet the Filipino-American Tween Who Loves All Things Nerdy & Girly
Pearl loves shopping for makeup and rocking a rainbow glitter backpack, but also enjoys playing video games and reading sci-fi graphic novels.
To the outside world, she has a confidently unique style. But internally, Pearl feels like she's constantly fighting to understand herself. She is proudly nerdy. And she's also joyously girly. Yet, because of her self-doubt, those two cannot coexist.
A Children's Book About Being Proudly Unique
Our book, Pixelated Pearl, tackles themes of internalized perception and self-doubt head-on to (1) validate those feelings when they arise, and (2) show that it's not only okay to pursue your passions anyway—it's essential.
"It's so good!!!! As someone who struggles with intrusive thoughts a lot, this book would've empowered me so so so much as a child. Lottie absolutely loves the colors and illustrations!"
—Raigan N shared this review on December 04, 2025
"Pixelated Pearl, written by Erica Martin & illustrated by Aireen Arellano, is a children's book about a girl named Pearl who initially doubts that being nerdy can coexist with being girly. While she looks unsure on the outside, Pearl learns that being nerdy and girly can, in fact, exist together - a strong powerful message that encourages girls like Pearl to pursue their deep, intellectual, unique passions while still enjoying being feminine.
The illustrations are absolutely stunning. The illustrator's use of bold, graphic style and thoughtful design enhances and brings the story and characters to life."
—L A shared this review on December 16, 2025
"I loved it! It’s very uplifting and inspiring for kids. The illustrations were fresh and fun! :)"
—L J shared this review on December 07, 2025
"Reading this story with my nerdy and girly 7 year old daughter filled me with such pride, and I found myself being inspired as well. Such a gorgeous and important story for kids, and a solid reminder to all of to show up as ourselves and embrace all the parts that make us, us. The pictures are beautiful and it’s an absolute pleasure to spend time in Pearl’s world…something tells me this will be a bedtime story staple so we’ll be there often."
—AR I shared this review on January 25, 2026
"My 13yo daughter enjoyed this book. She identified with feeling different sometimes, and she LOVED the illustrations."
—M A shared this review on November 24, 2025
They Said Girls Can't Code... So We Wrote a Book
Listen to Erica and Aireen share about their motivations and mission behind creating Pixelated Pearl.
Watch the Video