Review of Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr

 

Synopsis: "Hiroshima-born Sadako is lively and athletic--the star of her school's running team. And then the dizzy spells start. Soon gravely ill with leukemia, the "atom bomb disease," Sadako faces her future with spirit and bravery. Recalling a Japanese legend, Sadako sets to work folding paper cranes. For the legend holds that if a sick person folds one thousand cranes, the gods will grant her wish and make her healthy again. Based on a true story, Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes celebrates the extraordinary courage that made one young woman a heroine in Japan."

My Review: I don't know how it took me so long to read this book, it was outstanding. It is simple enough for young readers to enjoy but the story and message behind it packs a punch that will hit adult readers too. It is a bittersweet story that was beautifully written. It was a quick read for me but it is certainly sticking with me long after it was complete. I will be looking up more on Sadako and her story (not to mention trying my hand at making origami cranes - there were instructions at the back of the book too).

 

My Rating: This book was so unbelievably good.  I also feel that it is an important book for kids to read, there is so much we are taught in history classes but so much gets left out, like the other side of the story or the results of actions taken.  I give this one a rating of Four Paws and a Stump Wag!