Kozo the Sparrow

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

Caldecott medalist Allen Say’s tale of a young boy who saves a baby bird from the local bullies transports readers to a stirring memory of his childhood in Japan. Based on a true story and gorgeously illustrated, this story from an iconic picture book creator is not to be missed. 

A young boy sees a baby bird quivering in the hands of a neighborhood bully.Suddenly, he wants the orphan sparrow more than anything. He trades all his treasures for the bird and calls it Kozo, Little Boy.But how will he keep Kozo alive?In this painted album of memory, eight-year-old Allen Say talks about the best friend he made in his childhood.

About the Author

Allen Say was born in Yokohama, Japan, and came to the United States when he was sixteen. His many treasured books for children include Tree of Cranes, Allison, and the Caldecott Medal–winning Grandfather’s Journey. He lives in Portland, Oregon.