Author & Illustrator: Patricia Polacco
Publisher: Philomel
Publication Year: 2000
Location: Knox County Public Library- Halls
Awards: School Library Journal & Kirkus starred reviews, Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People
Summary: Monique lives in France during the Nazi occupation when she discovers that her family has hidden a Jewish family with a young daughter named Sevrine. Although she is scared of the Nazi soldiers, she does not let on that she has discovered Sevrine's existence and the two girls become friends. Monique brings Sevrine gifts from the outside - flowers, earth, and even a butterfly. When the next door neighbor sees Sevrine, the family must run taking Monique's beloved pet with them and leaving a gold Star of David necklace in return. One day months later, tens of butterflies visit Monique in her garden and she is sure that they are a sign from Sevrine of her family's safety.
Classroom Ideas: A beautiful addition to any class study of World War II and the Holocaust, as well as a story of bravery and friendship.
Extras: In the author's note, Polacco explains that this is a family story of her great-aunt Marcel and her aunt Monique. Sevrine and Monique continue to be friends.
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