1001 Cranes

When 12-year-old Angela Kato arrives in LA, the last thing she wants to do is spend the entire summer with her grandparents. But in the Kato family, one is never permitted to complain. Grandma Michi and Aunt Janet put Angela to work in their flower shop, folding origami and creating 1,001 crane displays for newlyweds. At first, Angela learns the trade begrudgingly. But when her folding skills improve and her relationships with family and friends grow, Angela is able to cope with her troubles, especially her parents’ impending divorce.

©2008 Naomi Hirahara (P)2021 Audible, Inc.

Moving and authentic coming of age story

Loved this poignant story of a young Japanese-American adolescent coming of age in Pasadena during her parent's divorce. The story was cleverly chaptered by Michi's origami crane tips, as Angela is suddenly immersed in her grandparent's community, the flower shop, and first love. I was totally engaged and felt many familiar memories of similar adolescent emotions - thanks to an outstanding performance by Chloe Madrigal. Great work!!