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Eleanor Coerr

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes

Eleanor CoerrFiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1977

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Book Brief

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Eleanor Coerr

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1977
Book Details
Pages

80

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Hiroshima, Japan • 1950s

Theme
Publication Year

1977

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

690L

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Super Short Summary

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr tells the story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who, after the atomic bomb is dropped on Hiroshima, is diagnosed with leukemia at age 12. Inspired by a legend that folding 1,000 origami cranes grants a wish, Sadako begins folding cranes in hopes of a recovery. The novel, highlighting themes of war, grief, hope, and peace, follows her journey. The book contains mentions of warfare, illness, and the deaths of children.

Melancholic

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

29,356 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Coerr's Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes captures the poignant journey of a young girl affected by the Hiroshima bombing. Praised for its emotional depth and historical significance, the narrative educates and moves readers. Critics cite a lack of character development but commend its sensitivity and hopeful message, making it a valuable read for young audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes?

Readers who appreciate Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr will likely be drawn to heartfelt, historical narratives involving resilience and hope. Similar to fans of The Diary of Anne Frank and Number the Stars, they enjoy touching stories about young protagonists facing adversity with bravery.

4.4

29,356 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

80

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Hiroshima, Japan • 1950s

Theme
Publication Year

1977

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

690L

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