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.

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.

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

- The book Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes is based on the true story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who became a symbol of peace and resilience after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
- Sadako's story inspired the creation of the Children's Peace Monument in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, which features a statue of Sadako holding a golden crane.
- Eleanor Coerr was motivated to write Sadako's story after discovering that Sadako only managed to fold 644 cranes before her death, although friends and family completed the task to fulfill her wish.

**Sadako Sasaki**  
The lively and brave protagonist of the story who loves racing and holds onto hope even after she is diagnosed with leukemia.

**Chizuko**  
Sadako's best friend with a thoughtful and comforting presence, who introduces her to the idea of folding 1,000 paper cranes for good luck.

**Kenji**  
A solemn and perceptive nine-year-old boy Sadako meets in the hospital, whose brief but impactful presence highlights the challenges faced by children affected by war.

**Mr. Sasaki**  
Sadako’s proud and dutiful father, who works hard to support his family and encourages Sadako throughout her life and illness.

**Mrs. Sasaki**  
Sadako's caring and self-sacrificing mother, who frequently visits her daughter in the hospital and expresses her love through gifts and sacrifices.

Eleanor Coerr

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Summary

Background

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-2

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Chapters 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 3-4

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Chapters 3-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-7

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Chapters 5-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 8-Epilogue

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Chapter 8-Epilogue Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes Essay Topics

Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes?

Reading Age

Book Details