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Author: Molly Bang
Publisher: Greenwillow Books (pb. Mulberry Books, an imprint of William Morrow & Co.)
Description: A generous restaurant owner receives a wonderful magical gift from a stranger in THE PAPER CRANE. LeVar celebrates Japanese culture by visiting Gasho of Japan in Central Valley, New York. Surrounded by lush gardens, LeVar dons a kimono and steps into the enchanting world of Japan, exploring the ancient art of origami and the artistry of a Japanese vegetable carver at work. As a special highlight, LeVar joins Soh Daiko, an energetic and colorful group of Japanese dancers, as they perform the celebratory festival of the drums.
Activity Suggestion: The illustrations in THE PAPER CRANE are done with a cut-out, collage technique. Show the students this unusual style by passing around a copy of the book. Compare these illustrations to those in another children's book. Encourage students to discuss how the styles are different and alike.
For activity ideas beyond what is listed, contact Canadian Learning CompanyŽ for information about obtaining a teacher's guide. Call 1-800-267-2977.