Books like The Hen Who Dreamed She Could Fly by Hwang Sun-mi

Sprout, a curious hen who longs to raise a child, is judged unnecessary by the farmer’s wife, whose daily egg‑collection leaves her feeling invisible. Determined to carve her own destiny, Sprout escapes her cage into the barnyard, where she is met with disdain by other farmfellow animals. Only another outcast, the duck named Straggler, offers her acceptance. Together they discover an abandoned egg in a briar patch. Sprout hatches it, unaware at first that her offspring is a duckling, not a chick. The story follows Sprout’s journey through the joys and challenges of parenthood, the healing power of friendship, and the delicate balance between nature and nurture. The book’s gentle, evocative line drawings by Japanese artist Nomoco complement its sweet, philosophical tone. This short, fable‑like tale—popular in South Korea and read by many seeking self‑reflection—explores what it means to persevere, to embrace individuality, and to cherish unintended family bonds.

First publish date: 2013