Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes is a novel by Eleanor Coerr that tells the story of a young Japanese girl named Sadako Sasaki. Sadako is a kind and determined character who is diagnosed with leukemia after being exposed to radiation from the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
Throughout the novel, Sadako faces numerous challenges as she tries to come to terms with her illness and the possibility of death. Despite her struggles, Sadako remains determined and resilient, and she is able to find hope and strength in the Japanese legend of the thousand paper cranes.
One of the main characters in the novel is Chizuko, Sadako's best friend. Chizuko is a loyal and supportive friend to Sadako, and she helps her to cope with her illness and the challenges that come with it. Chizuko is also a strong and courageous character who is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in, even when faced with adversity.
Another important character in the novel is Mrs. Sasaki, Sadako's mother. Mrs. Sasaki is a loving and caring mother who is deeply affected by her daughter's illness. Despite her own struggles and heartache, Mrs. Sasaki remains supportive and loving towards Sadako, and she does everything she can to help her daughter through this difficult time.
There are also several minor characters in the novel, including Sadako's classmates, her doctors and nurses, and members of the community who come together to support Sadako and her family. These characters all play important roles in Sadako's journey and help to create a rich and complex narrative.
Overall, Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes is a powerful and poignant novel that tells the story of a young girl's courage and determination in the face of illness and death. The characters in the novel are complex and well-developed, and they help to bring the story to life in a way that is both moving and inspiring.