Taro Yashima (1908–1994)

Crow Boy has the name of Chibi (Little One). No one in his class has reached out to him. He is different. He walks many miles to get to school. For six years he has walked, and he noticed is called when his class realizes they have bullied a boy who walks many miles, and he has a special talent. Over the years, he carefully listened to crows, noticing their many differences of their communications.

This is a story of a small boy who lives inside himself. He watches and listens, but finds it difficult to interact with others. Then, a wonderful, caring teacher introduced him to the class. He shared his special talent, and the students payed attention. He mimicked the voices of the crows from newly hatched, and the way they listen to their mother and father's voice. Crows cry when the village people are unhappy because of an accident. When others are happy, the crows are as well.

He was honored for perfect attendance throughout the entire six years of walking early in the morning through sunset. Now, no one called him Chibi, he was known as Crow Boy, and he was very happy that others liked him.

Written in 1955, this Caldecott award-winning book is a testimony to a teacher who made a difference. He spent many hours talking with Chibi, and became fascinated with his goodness, kindness and his connection with nature.… (altro)