Based on the true story of two storks whose dedication to each other captured the world’s attention, this soaring tale is a heartfelt call to protect the routes of migratory birds.

Katerina and Luka, two majestic, mated white storks, are in flight when Katerina is shot down by a hunter and left severely injured. Nearby, a man and his granddaughter see the bird fall from the sky and rush to her rescue. As they nurse Katerina back to health, Luka, who has been by her side night and day, feels the coming cold and knows he must migrate—even though it means leaving his beloved Katerina behind, to be cared for by the family who rescued her. When spring arrives, Katerina watches the sky, hoping that she might see Luka's familiar silhouette again . . .  and he returns! Together, they raise a new brood, overcoming Katerina's flightlessness with ingenuity and devotion. 

Poetic and gorgeously illustrated, Springtime Storks is an ode to the resilience, dedication, and love between two migratory birds, while also delivering an urgent message of conservation.

Story Locale:Rural Eastern Europe
 
Contributor Bio(s)
 
Carol Joy Munro Is a children’s book author originally from Connecticut. Springtime Storks is her debut picture book.

Author Residence: Western Massachusetts, MA

Chelsea O’Byrne is a children’s book author and illustrator based in Vancouver. Her books include Hello, Crow; If I Were King; and Teatime Around the World.

Illustrator Residence:Vancouver, British Columbia