Springtime Storks - by Carol Joy Munro (Hardcover)

About the Book

"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"--

Book Synopsis

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.

★ School Library Journal

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.

Review Quotes

2025 Kansas NEA Reading Circle List

★"Tender and affecting....a notable book with beautiful language and memorable illustrations that uplift the power of devotion; it will also appeal to budding ornithologists." -School Library Journal, starred review

"This arresting long-distance tale of animal devotion will captivate readers, especially bird lovers." --Kirkus Reviews

"Created using chalk pastel, colored pencil, and digital pencil, the illustrations have a distinctive look and broad appeal. An engaging addition to classroom units on migration."--Booklist

"Affection soars in Munro's kindhearted debut inspired by the real-life plight of two mated birds."--Publishers Weekly

"Beyond breathtaking for its lilting lyricism and incredible illustrations--all based on a true story of two storks and their unbreakable bond of love. Don't miss out on the gorgeous experience of reading this picture book debut by Carol Joy Munro with stunning art by Chelsea O'Byrne!"--Sylvia Chen, author of TRICKY CHOPSTICKS

About the Author

Carol Joy Munro is a children's book author originally from Connecticut. Springtime Storks is her debut picture book.

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.