Sadako Sasaki was only two years old when Hiroshima was bombed. For years, her grandmother's death was the only way the bombing had affected Sadako's family. After nearly ten years though, Sadako fell ill with the Atom Bomb Disease, or Leukemia. Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes is a true story from Japan.
AGE RANGE INTERMEDIATE
THEMES
Cancer
Illness
Origami
OVERALL RATING 7/10
Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes is a very engaging story, and the characters feel real. I loved the writing style, and the art that is included. I think it is not a great adaption of the story for people who don't know Japanese culture though, since it is rather confusing. I had a hard time understanding why the paper cranes were a sign of hope, even after I finished reading the book. I think it is worth a read, but you may also want to look into the Japanese paper crane legend at the same time.
PROS
Engaging
Great Characters
True Story
CONS
Confusing
Very sad!