A Monarch in Winter: Biography of a Butterfly

by Abbey Pachter

FBT review:

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of A Monarch in Winter: Biography of a Butterfly, a heartfelt non-fiction narrative by Abbey Pachter. Follow the author's journey of nurturing a rescued monarch caterpillar during the midst of the second winter of COVID-19, leading to newfound insights on life, aging, and connection with nature. As you delve into the author's daily journal entries and discoveries about the butterfly's life, you'll explore the intriguing parallels between insects and humans, the significance of every moment, and the intimate bond shared among all living creatures. Elevate your reading experience with this inspiring tale that sheds light on the profound impact of caring for a tiny creature, unveiling the butterfly effect on one individual's life.

Publisher Description:

Compelled by deep instinct and the curious mind of a retired nurse, scientist, midwife, and budding naturalist, the author retrieves a too-late-to-migrate monarch caterpillar from a December ice storm. She decides to learn all she can to care for the butterfly that soon emerges in her home while the second winter of COVID-19 rages outdoors. Each day of its longer-than-expected life brings new observations, challenges, and rewards, which the author shares with the reader as journal entries.
-How are butterflies and newborns alike?
-How and what will he eat? How often?
-Does he sleep? Where will he decide to roost?
-How long will he live?
There are bigger questions, too. What does it mean to age? How do we care for our aging? When do we stop? What can foster a peaceful demise? Read to discover fascinating details with easy-to-understand science.

In A Monarch in Winter: Biography of a Butterfly, discover

The evolutionary similarities between insects and humans
Ripple effects on nature and evolution
Parallels in life as we cope with the global pandemic
The preciousness of every moment
True connection and intimacy among living creatures
During these few months of semi-isolation in the second winter of COVID-19, the author creates a new routine, purpose, and relationship with nature by caring for the small creature in her care. Read this fascinating narrative and witness the butterfly effect on one woman’s life.