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“Sato’s signature mixed-media artwork has a three-dimensional feel, well suited for young readers; it deftly evokes the power of the earthquake and subsequent tsunami on the town, as well as the people’s quiet sadness and recovery. A moving introduction to a tragic event.”—Kirkus Reviews
Hana is at school when the devastating tsunami sweeps over Japan. But when the dark wave finally returns to the ocean, it has taken more than Hana could have ever imagined.
Hana’s school sits on the side of a hill with a view of the ocean. One day, while in class, a tsunami drags the ocean across her village. Hana watches in horror as the dark water crashes into trees and tosses cars and boats around. When she is finally reunited with her family, she learns that the wave has taken more than she could have ever imagined. To cope with her grief, Hana begins to paint chidori (a thousand birds).
Miki Sato’s collage art, which combines paper, textiles, and watercolor, creates a three-dimensional world that is rich in emotion, detail, and texture.
Jennifer Maruno writes with compassion and heart, bringing life to this story inspired by true events.
Praise for Chidori
Booklist Editors’ Choice: Books for Youth, 2025
CBC’s 33 Canadian Kids' Books We Are Excited to Read in Spring 2025
The Children’s Book Council “Hot off the Press” April 2025 Selection
“Sato’s signature mixed-media artwork has a three-dimensional feel, well suited for young readers; it deftly evokes the power of the earthquake and subsequent tsunami on the town, as well as the people’s quiet sadness and recovery. A moving introduction to a tragic event.”—Kirkus Reviews
“This is a book to pass down, and one that gently helps children of all ages learn about grief, bereavement, and coping.”—Booklist ★ Review
“This story of loss is told in a straightforward way and is enhanced by collage art that shows the impact of the tsunami, but also suggests the healing power of art.”—School Library Journal
"Gorgeous collage illustrations use multiple mediums to complement this touching tale of finding hope within loss.”—Foreword Reviews
“Miki Sato! Man, do I love that woman’s work ... she’s helped to bring to life a pretty serious story.”—School Library Journal, Fuse 8
“Chidori is ultimately a book about a child’s ability to grieve and navigate new beginnings.”—Quill and Quire
“A Story of One Thousand Birds.... embraces grief, recovery, and loss in novel ways young picture book readers can easily relate to.”—Midwest Book Review
“Maruno’s story of finding peace and comfort through art and relationships is simply, but beautifully told.”—CLDC – Children’s Literature
“Told through heartfelt narrative, the tale is rich with emotion and is well suited to preschool and early elementary school-aged audiences....Touching and impactful, this is a memorable and emotional addition to library collections for young readers.”—Mary Lanni Reads, Goodreads
“Miki Sato’s collage art is a rich companion to the tale, which embraces grief, recovery, and loss in novel ways young picture book readers can easily relate to. Libraries that choose Chidori will want to be sure classroom and home discussions help kids to fully understand and appreciate Hana’s journey.”—Donovan’s Literary Service