An engrossing, detailed work of nonfiction delves into not only the behaviors and characteristics of monarch butterflies, but also the long history of human fascination—and, unfortunately, interference—with monarchs. Beginning with a description of the monarch life cycle—from its perilous caterpillar days on milkweed leaves to its metamorphosis into its distinctive adult form and eventual migration—this account provides ample explanations of the experiments and efforts of scientists both professional and amateur to learn more about this long-admired insect. A substantial portion of the narrative covers the history of how monarchs’ overwintering sites in Michoacán, Mexico, were “discovered.” Credit is usually given to Dr. Urquhart, a white Canadian whose National Geographic article revealed the approximate location of the sites. Urquhart failed to properly credit Mexican Catalina Trail, who had searched for and informed him of the exact site. And even before Urquhart and Trail, Indigenous peoples had long lived in and cared for the forests where the monarchs spend their winters. The account also covers efforts to conserve overwintering sites (and the unintended, negative consequences of these efforts); monarch migration patterns; and the recent sharp decline in monarch populations. It concludes by urging all who live in monarchs’ natural habitat to help cultivate conditions that will lead to the preservation of these marvelous butterflies. (Ages 10 and older)

A not-so-typical look at the mysteries of the monarch butterfly

Scholastic Focus is the premier home of thoroughly researched, beautifully written, and thoughtfully designed works of narrative nonfiction aimed at middle-grade and young adult readers. These books help readers learn about the world in which they live and develop their critical thinking skills so that they may become dynamic citizens who are able to analyze and understand our past, participate in essential discussions about our present, and work to grow and build our future.

With their stunning black-and-orange wings, monarch butterflies are one of the most recognizable insects on the planet. But despite their delicate beauty, these creatures are warriors. The moment they hatch, they're fighting for their lives. Everything is the enemy: from the very leaf they live on to the humans and animals around them to nature itself. How does such a tiny egg survive to become a butterfly? And even after emerging from the cocoon, unimaginable danger awaits: migration.

Every year, monarchs take flight, making one of the greatest migrations in the world. However, for a long time, their destination was unknown within the scientific community. Through the research of scientists in Canada and the United States and the support and efforts of ordinary people as well as Indigenous knowledge in Mexico, that mystery was finally solved. But to do so would involve years of searching across three countries and encounters with feuding scientists, the consequences of colonialism, and life-and-death stakes.

Weaving together the untold story of survival, scientific discoveries, and the relationship between humans and butterflies, The Monarch Effect explores how one small insect can have an incredible impact on the entire planet.