Storytime Reviews for Monarch Publishers Children's Book - Jake and the Migration of the Monarch (Butterfly)

I am writing to tell you about our recent experience with a new picture book and its author and illustrator.

It all started when we met Crystal Ball O'Connor, Ph.D. and Valerie Bunch Hollinger at a teacher conference and invited them to set up a table in our store during an Educator event. As it turned out, Crystal and Valerie had assembled a great teaching manual for any teachers who might use the book in their elementary school classes. The display was so attractive that most of the customers stopped to chat with the two ladies in butterfly wings. We are getting orders for the book every week.

We have encouraged the author to put together a special gift package for the holiday season. Wait until you see it! It will be as popular as Polar Express! (Ok-maybe not THAT big, but close…)

I hope you contact Crystal and Valerie and have them set up their beautiful display in your store for a morning or afternoon. P.S. It is available in Spanish too.

Ellicott City Maryland

Crystal Ball O'Connor, author of Jake and the Migration of the Monarch, joined us on a busy Saturday afternoon in December. Otherwise known as the "butterfly lady," Crystal was a big success with our customers, both young and old alike, who seemed to naturally gravitate to her and the book. Based on our customers' enthusiastic response, Jake and the Migration of the Monarch will be a treasured heirloom storybook for years to come.

Sherry L. Elswick
Community Relations Manager
Barnes & Noble Ellicott City

Recently our store had the privilege of having Crystal Ball O’Connor, Ph.D. and Valerie Bunch Hollinger join us for an evening of music, fun, and storytelling. Crystal has written, and Valerie has illustrated a wonderful book called Jake and the Migration of the Monarch. This was truly one of the most meaningful story times we have ever hosted.

Crystal and Valerie have a gift. They laughed with each other and the children, as they sang, acted and creatively expressed to the children the wonder of life’s journeys…for monarchs and people. This book is and will be a treasure for all the homes and classrooms of the lucky ones who recognize its worth. Crystal and Valerie were so much fun, as they interacted with our customers, while wearing their butterfly wings.

Everything about these two, their book, and the resources that accompany it, is warm, inviting, and first class all the way!

I would honestly recommend to anyone who is able to have Crystal and Valerie come, that it will be an event you and your community will enjoy and appreciate. Call them as soon as you can! I would be happy to speak personally to anyone who is interested in having Crystal and Valerie come, so that I can answer any particular questions. My work number is 803-787-5600.

Crystal Ball O'Connor and Valerie Bunch Hollinger were a great addition to our Saturday routine in West Cobb! The children loved the musical storytime, particularly the part where the got to play an instrument! Both the author and illustrator went to great effort to make the signing a success while they were at our store! I would definitely recommend this event to other bookstores!

Please feel free to call me with any questions

- Tish Shirley, Community Relations Manager, Barnes & Noble-West Cobb (770)424-2903

Jake and the Migrationof the Monarch

* Storytime Reviews *

Jake and the Migration
of the Monarch