A Thousand White Butterflies

See what Jessica and Karen have to say about A Thousand White Butterflies

As an immigrant child, I never imagined that a picture book, reflecting part of my earliest, most bittersweet memories in a foreign country would get published 15 years later.

Jessica with her Grandmother

My grandmother, Maria Luisa Cruz had a vision for her family and she worked very hard to bring her family, 2 daughters and three granddaughters to live in the United States. I am one of those three granddaughters and this book is a tribute to her and many more immigrants who work hard daily with optimism, faith/hope and perseverance to make a living in a foreign country.

Karen Lynn Williams’ writing experience, collaboration and mentorship has made possible the publication of this picture book.   Without her expertise A Thousand White Butterflies would not be here today.  This book is truly a gift for my family and I hope it becomes a gift to your family, too! — JBP

Karen’s Grandfather

When Jessica shared her story about immigrating to the US in a writing workshop I taught I knew there was picture book there.  A gift for any writer.  Her story spoke to my passion for family, lives of children in all cultures and yes, Snow!
It resonated with tales my grandfather told about immigrating from Hungary and settling in a new country.  It has been a privilege to collaborate with Jessica on this journey of sharing and learning.  —KLW

“An Encouraging Story of New Beginnings”  Kirkus, January 1, 2021

Jessica’s son likes snow too.

A recently arrived child from Colombia misses her father and her friends back home…As Isabella looks out the window “the United States is cold and gray.” Her mother assures her she will make new friends in school…But when her “make-new-friends day” finally arrives, it is snowing and school is cancelled. With her dreams of new friends dashed, Isabella stares out the window where the snow looks like “a thousand white butterflies.” …Maldonado’s charming illustrations are simple and colorful…Many a newly arrived child will recognize Isabella’s homesickness and need for reassurance that life will work out in this new country. Isabella narrates in English, the dialogue within her family entirely in Spanish; the fact that she and (her new friend) Katie speak only in their own languages interferes not a whit in their play.