BEATRIX BUTTERFLY WINGS IT FOR ONCE

Grammy Award–winning singer/songwriter Morris teams up with Argow, an educator and her longtime best friend, for a companion to Addie Ant Goes on an Adventure (2024), this time focusing on a butterfly with a case of the blahs.

Beatrix Butterfly can’t face her lengthy to-do list. All she can do is huddle under the covers and chide herself for her lack of industry. But when mail carrier Ellis Squirrel arrives, he advises that she forget her list and just “wing it.” Beatrix appreciates the fresh perspective. She recalls a task she’d promised to do for her friend Lewis Ladybug—gathering rose petals for an upcoming performance—and completes it. Delivering her cargo, Beatrix apologizes for her lateness. Lewis isn’t bothered and urges Beatrix to take the time to appreciate the beautiful surroundings. Beatrix does additional favors for Lewis and a mutual pal. Then, she and her friends enjoy Lewis’ “much-buzzed-about one-bug show.” Beatrix is delighted to have helped others—and to have “winged it.” The story feels preachy at times, with characters pausing to deliver grand pronouncements. Still, the authors make valuable points about not pushing oneself and to take the time to refresh oneself and appreciate one’s surroundings. The colors of plants and wildlife in the illustrations pop against the pages. Beatrix and company are wide-eyed and fetching.

A gentle tale with important messaging about mindfulness.