When Osamu, a lonely sail maker, nurses an injured crane one blustery night, he never suspects that this simple act of kindness will change his life forever. Weeks later a mysterious woman arrives on his doorstep, seeking shelter from a storm. Osamu again offers his help, and soon the sail maker and the stranger fall in love and marry. But when he learns of his wife’s gift for making magic sails, ambition replaces compassion–and Osamu risks losing the great happiness he has found. With majestic paintings and lyrical prose, this classic Japanese tale speaks to readers of all ages with its timeless lessons on the nature of kindness, love, and betrayal.
Asia
Materials from Asia
Bà-Năm
The Great Wall: The Story Of 4,000 Miles Of Earth And Stone That Turned A Nation Into A Fortress (Wonders Of The World Book)
Examines the building of the Great Wall of China and the thousands of years of conflict that preceded it.
In Search Of The Spirit
Describes the creations of some of Japan’s Living National Treasures, artists who are involved in various Japanese arts, including Yuzen dyeing, bamboo basket weaving, Bunraku puppetmaking, swordmaking, Noh theater, and neriage ceramics.
The Greatest Power
Long ago, a Chinese emperor challenges the children of his kingdom to show him the greatest power in the world, and all are surprised at what is discovered.
A Letter To The King
When Ti Ying’s father is put in prison, Ti Ying, his youngest daughter, is able to save him by writing and delivering a letter to the king.
Da Wei’s Treasure: A Chinese Tale
In this retelling of a traditional Chinese tale, a boy finds a treasure in an unexpected place.
Drums Of Noto Hanto
The people in a small village in ancient Japan manage to drive off the forces of a powerful warlord using only their ingenuity and the many different village drums.
The Two Bullies
What happens with Ni-ou, the self-proclaimed “strongest fellow in Japan” rows to China to challenge his counter part, Dokkoi?
The Greatest Treasure
In a traditional Chinese tale retold by the creator of One Grain of Rice, a poor farmer receives a treasure of gold and discovers the true value of simple pleasures.