Publishing August 18, 2026 | Hardcover | 24 pages
Beginning with a monarch butterfly named Arora laying a tiny egg on a milkweed leaf, this tale follows Bernice the caterpillar as she grows, eats, and transforms into a beautiful butterfly.
Through engaging storytelling and kid-friendly scientific explanations, How Bernice Became a Butterfly introduces children to the monarch butterfly’s life cycle, including how long each stage lasts, why milkweed is essential for their survival, and the incredible migration monarchs make to Mexico each fall. Educational, inspiring, and visually rich, the book teaches young readers about the impact of monarch butterflies on the environment while encouraging curiosity about nature.
Inspired by author Shelley Ramey’s personal dedication to raising monarch butterflies and releasing them into the wild, the story also carries a meaningful tribute. The butterfly Bernice is named after Shelley’s mother, and Arora is named after her grandmother, whose own journey began when her family emigrated from Finland by boat. This heartfelt dedication adds a layer of family history and legacy to a story that celebrates transformation and the beauty of the natural world.
