On August 6, 1945, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on the city of Hiroshima in Japan. Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes, which takes place 9 years later in 1954, is the true story about a young girl who got leukemia as a result of the poisons emitted in the air when the bomb was dropped. Hers is a story of family, friendship, and hope.
Have students illustrate examples of themes from Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes by Eleanor Coerr
Storyboard Text
HOPE
PEACE
Sadako has hope for recovery, even as she continues to get sicker. She continues to fold the paper cranes until she is physically unable to do so.
Sadako and many others contracted leukemia as a result of World War II. The war impacted lives for many years. The theme of longing for peace is prevalent throughout Sadako's story.