Polacco, P. (2000). The butterfly. New York: Philomel Books.
48 Pages
Ages 4-8
Plot:
During the Nazi occupation of France, young Monique witnesses the capture of the local Jewish candy-store owner her family has known for years. She is shaken by the event. Following this, she wakes up to find a strange young girl in her room. She discovers not only that this girl, Sevrine, and her parents are Jewish runaways hiding in a secret basement of her home, but also that her mother is aware of it and has been helping such families for years. She soon becomes very good friends with the young girl. But when they are spotted by a neighbor, it is imperative that Sevrine and her family move on as they are no longer safe. In a suspensful and dramatic conclusion, Sevrine and her family are smuggled out of the country to a new safer location and Monique shares an intense new bond with her mother.
My Impressions:
I found this story to be very serious, full of suspense and very real danger. It is not a light read for a young child, but is a great story for those explaining the very real corruption of man through war and the great compassion of man. This story would require either some preperation before hand and/or a discussion afterward. What I enjoyed most about the book was the symbolism used by the butterfly as well as the very authentic frienship of the two girls. For despite its brevity, it remains a foundational part of each girl and their families for the rest of their lives.
Reviews:
From Reading Teacher
"Inspired by events during the Nazi occupation of France, this book is based on the true story of a friendship between two young French girls, one Christian and the other Jewish. Readers will gain an understanding of the selfless acts of the people in the French Resistance and Underground during World War II. Throughout this book, the papillon butterflies are a symbol of freedom and hope--a symbol of things that, during the Nazi regime, were denied those of Jewish descent. CU: This is a thought-provoking read-aloud for use with all grades. After reading, a follow-up discussion would be a great way to reinforce the book's lessons. The Butterfly would be a wonderful addition to an author study and units on friendship or World War II."
The Butterfly (Book Review). (2001). Reading Teacher, 55(3), 246.
From Library Talk
"Polacco uses a picture book format to bring readers a story that addresses the serious subject of the Nazi occupation of France with a balance of drama, hope, and friendship--a story that will move readers. The story is based on true events from the life of the author's aunt. Young Monique discovers that her mother, Marcel, has been hiding a Jewish family from the Nazis in the basement of their home. Monique and Sevrine form a secret friendship that is torn apart when the girls are spotted by a neighbor while releasing a butterfly into the night. The family must flee. After time has passed with no word from Sevrine or her parents, many butterflies land in Monique and Marcel's garden. Monique takes this as a sign that Sevrine and her parents are safe. The illustrations are quite recognizable as Polacco's and work well to support the text. At moments of danger and oppression, the use of black, red, and shades of gray is particularly effective. The story may open the door to many discussions about religious and cultural differences, or may be used as a read-aloud in support of a unit of study on World War II or racism. Fans of Polacco's work will be pleased with her latest effort. Recommended."
Mench, L. (2001). The Butterfly (Book Review). Library Talk, 14(1), 45.
Library Suggestions:
I recommend this book be utilized as a read-aloud book to use when discussing issues of racial tension/acceptance, compassion and war. I would not recommend this book as being merely a display item or suggesting read type item, because I believe it requires background information and should be followed by discussion.
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