Gigi and Ojiji: Perfect Paper Cranes

A Children's Book Committee Best Book of the Year!

"A cheery, gentle lesson on the importance of "practice makes ­perfect. ” School Library Journal (starred review)

A Geisel Honor-winning series!

Gigi loves the Japan Day Festival! When Ojiji volunteers at the origami booth, Gigi can't wait to make a paper crane like Ojiji's. But folding paper is harder than it looks, and Gigi is disheartened when she sees her paper crane next to Ojiji's. Will Gigi give up or will she try her best?

Author-illustrator Melissa Iwai's next installment in this I Can Read series encourages readers to try a new activity and to never give up.

Gigi and Ojiji: Perfect Paper Cranes is a Level Three I Can Read book, which is geared toward kids who read on their own but still need a little help. The story contains several Japanese words, a glossary, and instructions on how to fold a paper puppy.

Praise for Gigi and Ojiji:

"Gigi crafts her Japanese American identity in this ­enchanting early reader. The cuteness, inclusivity, and cross-cultural problem-solving represented will have young ­readers coming back again and again. A must-buy." School Library Journal (starred review)

"The text is well supported by the endearing illustrations, which capture all of Gigi's big emotions and depict her as a biracial child, with a white father and Japanese mother." ALA Booklist (starred review)

"An affirming option in the quickly diversifying field of early-reader books." Kirkus Reviews

A 2023 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor title

El día de los niños, el día de los libros selection 2023

ALSC Notable 2023

CBC Teacher and Librarian Favorites Award 2023

A Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year in the 5-9 beginning reader category (2023)

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

This sweet story of perseverance and family includes:

• Perseverance for Kids: Gigi's frustration with her wobbly crane teaches a gentle lesson on why it's important to keep trying, one fold at a time.
• Learning a New Skill: The basics of origami are introduced in a fun, accessible way as Gigi learns to fold her very first paper crane at the Japan Day Festival.
• Japanese Culture: An introduction to Japanese words like "Ganbatte! ” (Do your best!) and traditions, complete with a helpful glossary for curious readers.
• Includes a Fun Craft: Bonus step-by-step instructions show kids how to fold their own paper puppy, just like Gigi does in the story!