Sadako Sasaki was a Japanese girl who became an important symbol of world peace. She was born in Hiroshima and was affected by the atomic bomb during World War II. Although she became seriously ill at a young age, Sadako never gave up. She believed in a Japanese legend that says folding one thousand paper cranes can make a wish come true. Sadako folded paper cranes with hope—for her recovery and for peace in the world. Her story teaches people around the world about hope, courage, and the importance of peace.