Molly Bang's 'Dawn' is a poignant adaptation of the classic Japanese folktale, 'The Crane Wife'. A shipbuilder tells his daughter, Dawn, the story of how he once rescued a Canada goose with a broken wing. Soon after, a mysterious woman arrives, becomes his wife, and helps him with his work, but only under the condition that he never watch her weave. The story gently explores themes of love, trust, curiosity, and the bittersweet nature of sacrifice and loss, framed by a father sharing his past with his child. It's suitable for children aged 4-11, offering rich opportunities for discussion about promises and empathy.
In this adaptation of "The Crane Wife," a shipbuilder marries a mysterious woman who makes him promise never to look at her while she weaves.