A new installment in the “Tree Hole Sister” animated series is resonating with audiences in China, tackling the sensitive issue of societal pressures on young girls and the reasons behind their choices. Episode 137, which surfaced on February 20, 2026, centers on a girl who prefers to wear oversized, bulky clothing in the winter, not for warmth alone, but to avoid being labeled “manly” by her classmates. The story, initially reported by Upstream News, highlights the subtle yet pervasive forms of gender-based shaming that can affect children’s self-perception and behavior.
The “Tree Hole Sister” series has gained significant traction in China for its ability to address complex adolescent psychological issues through relatable storytelling. The series originated from the operate of Zhang Yaoyuan, a police officer in Chongqing’s Bishan District, who initiated the “Tree Hole Pocket” project. This project provides a safe space for young people to share their concerns and anxieties anonymously through letters. The animated series draws directly from these real-life experiences, transforming them into accessible narratives.
The “Tree Hole Pocket” Project and its Evolution
Zhang Yaoyuan’s “Tree Hole Pocket” began with a physical mailbox installed on school grounds, where students could deposit handwritten letters detailing their struggles. In 2022, a report by Toutiao highlighted the project after discovering the mailbox contained a staggering 1,423 letters. This discovery prompted the team at Upstream News to move beyond simply reporting on the initiative and become active partners in addressing adolescent mental health.
The collaboration between Upstream News and Zhang Yaoyuan led to the creation of the “Tree Hole Sister” comic series, and subsequently, the animated adaptation. According to a report by Guan Media, the process of adapting these sensitive letters into a comic format presented a unique challenge. The team, led by Upstream News Deputy Editor-in-Chief Ruan Pengcheng, involved over 100 experts from fields like psychology, education, sociology, and law enforcement to ensure the stories were both authentic and provided constructive guidance.
Addressing Gender Stereotypes Through Animation
The latest episode, focusing on the girl’s clothing choices, exemplifies the series’ commitment to tackling sensitive social issues. The story doesn’t explicitly condemn the classmates’ behavior, but rather explores the internal conflict the girl experiences as a result of their judgment. This nuanced approach allows the series to spark conversations about gender stereotypes and the importance of self-acceptance without being overly didactic.
The creative team employed a Q-version art style – a popular form of cartooning in China characterized by its cute and simplified designs – to balance the seriousness of the subject matter with an approachable aesthetic. This stylistic choice, as noted in the Guan Media report, was intended to make the content more engaging for young viewers. The series utilizes a unique formula: real-life cases (derived from the letters), vivid animation, the perspective of “Tree Hole Sister” offering advice, and expert insights.
Expanding Reach: From Comics to Television
The “Tree Hole Sister” project has expanded beyond comics and animation, culminating in the publication of the “Tree Hole Sister Says Growth” series of books on adolescent psychological safety. These books, co-published by the China People’s Public Security University Press and the Masses Publishing House, were officially launched at a new book exchange meeting in Beijing on January 8, 2026. The series aims to provide a reliable “spiritual haven” for young people, converting thousands of letters into practical guides for navigating the challenges of growing up.
Notably, the series gained national recognition when it was featured during the “Passionate Loyalty” special program on CCTV1, commemorating the 2025 Chinese People’s Police Festival. During the program, Zhang Yaoyuan showcased the Upstream News-produced “Tree Hole Sister” comic series, further amplifying its message to a wider audience.
The success of “Tree Hole Sister” underscores a growing awareness in China regarding the importance of adolescent mental health and the require for accessible resources. By transforming anonymous letters into engaging and informative content, the project has created a valuable platform for open dialogue and support.
Looking ahead, the “Tree Hole Sister” project is expected to continue evolving, with potential for further expansion into new media formats and outreach initiatives. The ongoing collaboration between law enforcement, journalism, and mental health professionals promises to provide continued support for young people navigating the complexities of adolescence.
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