Velma Gratch and the Way Cool Butterfly

Every family has a youngest child who knows what it’s like to live in the shadow of their older siblings—and Velma Gratch knows this feeling all too well. As the littlest Gratch entering first grade, she’s constantly compared to her practically perfect older sisters. Teachers barely remember her name, and she’s just trying to find her own place in the world.

But everything changes during a magical class trip to the Butterfly Conservatory. When a magnificent monarch butterfly lands on Velma’s finger and refuses to leave for days, this shy first grader discovers something extraordinary: her own unique voice. What follows is a heartwarming journey of self-discovery that will resonate with any child who’s ever felt overlooked or overshadowed.

Written by Maine author Alan Madison and brought to life by acclaimed, bestselling illustrator Kevin Hawkes, this delightful picture book does double duty as both an empowering story about finding confidence and a fascinating introduction to butterfly science. Young readers will learn about migration patterns and metamorphosis while watching Velma transform from a timid student into a budding scientist brimming with newfound self-assurance.

Perfect for:

• Children navigating sibling dynamics and finding their own identity
• Classroom discussions about self-esteem and what makes each of us special
• Young nature enthusiasts curious about butterflies and the natural world
• Families celebrating the unique gifts of every child

A beautiful reminder that sometimes the smallest voices have the most important things to say.

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