The Butterfly and the Earthquake

By Carol McKeever

Dedicated to the children of Christchurch and their families, The Butterfly and The Earthquake is designed to be read to children by a supportive adult who can help them with any memories or emotions that may arise as a result of the story.

The story starts the same way February 22nd, 2011 started, as just another ordinary day. The only thing different in Tom's household was that he was recovering from chicken pox and therefore was at home rather than at school.

Not all the events though covered in this book actually happened the way they did on February 22nd, at least not in Christchurch city, as there was little or no warning of the quake, unlike the rumbling that many were wakened by in September 2010. It covers some of the trials and disaster children faced without reliving the whole horror.

The story follows Tom as he moves from surprise, confusion and anxiety to comfort and calm. The book draws on the idea that parents can create an emotional cocoon for their children during traumatic times.

Money from the sale of this book will go to the Save The Children Journey of Hope Programme in Christchurch and other related New Zealand projects.

Review by www.tstnz.com