I am thrilled to be featuring Bette Steven’s award-winning children’s book, Amazing Matilda: A Monarch’s Tale, on “A Better World of Books.” Bette resides in Maine and finds her inspiration for writing in “nature and human nature.”  She is an advocate for childhood literacy, as well as for the protection of monarch butterflies and their habitat. Her book Amazing Matilda combines her two passions into an engaging story about a young caterpillar’s journey of growth and transformation as she becomes a monarch butterfly.

Matilda’s tale begins when she emerges into life as a tiny caterpillar with an innate desire to fly. The world is spread before her and she is eager to explore it with wings. Her journey evokes the inner child that exists in all of us. Matilda is filled with the promise of life, but she must learn trust and patience as she grows from a caterpillar into a butterfly with wings! Fortunately for Matilda, she has friendly and wise teachers to guide her along the way. While Frog and Rabbit teach her patience, Sparrow flies in now and then to encourage Matilda to never give up on her dream through her words of wisdom. Bette offers downloadable finger puppets to accompany her book and help bring her story to life.

I found Amazing Matilda to be both delightful and insightful. Her gift for storytelling shines through her words, which are illuminated by her lovely illustrations. One cannot help being captivated by her pages filled with positive inspiration for young audience eager to discover their own unique gifts and bring them out into the world. It is no wonder that reviewers of Sevens’s book are adding it to their libraries and classrooms. I have no doubt Matilda has, and will continue to inspire children, as well as their caregivers, to never give up on their dreams!

A Few Reviews for Amazing Matilda

“Children of all ages will be able to relate to monarch’s plight in some way. The tale will also inspire readers to not only follow their dreams, but to encourage others to do the same. One’s dreams are never too bit, but with the support of friends and family, as well as with patience and determination, anyone can reach their goal. The sky is the limit. This story is a true gem and one that will inspire children for years to come.”  Renee Hand (award-winning adult and children’s book author of interactive mystery series. Renee reviews for the New York Journal of Books. ) 

“This book conveys a wonderful message to children. A message about patience and self-belief, and that if you have your heart set on something, and try hard enough, you will get there in the end. It is a beautifully written book and a worthy addition to any child’s bookshelf.” Amelia E. Curzon author of Mungai and the Goa Constrictor

Amazing, Never-Giving-Up Matilda“…I immediately fell in love with Matilda, an amazing, sweet, curious character. What a lovely story with a subtle and yet deep and understandable message for young (and those who are not so young ) readers. This book is one of “must have” books in your library. I already purchased a Kindle version for myself and I ordered two more copies in print for my library.” –Vida Zuljevic

If you’d like to learn more about Amazing Matilda or Bette Stevens, please visit:

Bette’s Website

Bette’s Facebook Page

The Author’s Amazon Page

Bette’s Library of Books

Are you an author with a vision for a better world? Do you have a published book of poetry, fiction, or nonfiction that uplifts and empowers readers to create a more positive inner and outer environment? If so, I’d love to hear more about it. On a “Better World of Books,” I interview authors and review books of all genres that offer a vision for a better world. If you think your work is a part of this vision, please contact Alethea.