Let's make this birthday one to remember.

68 years old (Born on July 02, 1956)

Happy Birthday, Cynthia Kadohata! May your day sparkle brighter than the kira-kira moments you've gifted readers everywhere. Your stories have touched hearts and tickled funny bones—who knew a dog named Cracker could teach us more about bravery (and snack-stealing) in Vietnam than any history book?

Here's hoping this year brings you even greater luck—and fewer awkward encounters with deadlines or mischievous characters who refuse to behave on paper. Keep inspiring laughter, tears, and thoughtful reflection through every page; after all these years of literary brilliance, you're still proving that storytelling is truly "the thing about luck." Cheers!