By Ala Zubovskis
Do you know that monarch butterflies only weigh .5 grams? Without a compass, they fly over five thousand kilometers from southern Canada to Mexico to breed and reproduce. Think about it, who taught them how to do that? They did not learn to fly that distance from their parents. How do they know to fly back to their home? They are so small, not even three centimeters. Even with such small bodies, they follow God’s principle of creation. Only human beings erred.
Holy Mother Han (Vienna, May 10th 2015)
The Monarch is a gentle and poetic picture book that follows the life of the monarch butterfly—from egg to caterpillar, chrysalis to fluttering wings, and finally through its long migratory journey. Written in lyrical rhyme by Kirsten Hall and beautifully illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault, the story captures the wonder of transformation and the quiet miracle of nature’s design.
At this time, True Mother has often spoken of the monarch butterfly as a symbol of filial children—those who, no matter how far or difficult the journey, always find their way home to their Heavenly Parent. The monarch’s migration reflects that same faith and perseverance. Though fragile in body, it crosses vast distances with purpose and devotion, returning to the warmth of its origin.
While we in the UK associate butterflies mainly with spring and summer, November holds special meaning for monarchs, as they complete their migration from southern Canada to Mexico. There, they play an important role in both the ecosystem and in cultural traditions that honour life and remembrance.
Beyond its poetic beauty, The Monarch carries a message of stewardship and hope. The closing pages include facts about the butterfly’s life cycle and its endangered habitat, reminding families that caring for even the smallest creatures is part of caring for God’s creation.
This is a lovely book for families, teachers, and Sunday school leaders who wish to nurture a sense of wonder, gratitude, and love for nature in children. It encourages young hearts to recognise that every return—to home, to goodness, to Heavenly Parent—is part of creation’s divine journey.
Age 4+
Available on Amazon
Preview of the book here
*Feel free to share your inspiration about children’s books with me at ala@ffwpu.org.uk.
