Abby makes an unlikely friend in her neighborhood—her elderly Japanese neighbor, Mrs. Naka. All spring and summer, the two delight in the robins that live in the maple tree that straddles their yards, following the birds' progress as they nest and the babies hatch and learn to fly. Mrs. Naka teaches Abby how to make tori—origami birds. Later, when Mrs. Naka has an accident, will Abby be able to use her new skill to conjure up a surprise to comfort her ailing neighbor?
This award-winning book uses patterned Japanese origami paper, textured cut-paper and rice paper in collage style to create intriguing artwork. Abby learns valuable life lessons from Mrs. Naka, her elderly Japanese neighbour. Through their shared love of the backyard robin family, Abby experiences the joys and sorrows of the life cycle. When Mrs. Naka is hospitalized, Abby is able to express empathy and love for her in a poignant way with the origami paper cranes her neighbour had taught her to fold. Instructions for creating paper cranes are printed inside the book jacket cover.
Ellen Schwartz is a Burnaby, BC author who has written twelve children’s books. Sima Elizabeth Shefrin lives in Vancouver and on Gabriola Island, BC.
Source: The Association of Book Publishers of BC. BC Books for BC Schools. 2007-2008.
Abby’s elderly Japanese neighbour, Mrs. Naka, teaches her how to make tori (origami birds). When the old woman has an accident, Abby uses her new skill to conjure up a comforting surprise for Mrs. Naka’s return home. Includes instructions on how to make paper cranes.
Source: The Canadian Children’s Book Centre. Best Books for Kids & Teens. 2008.