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The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry
A Gold recipient of the Mom’s Choice Award®, placing among the best in family-friendly media.
" A smart, riveting environmental tale with a laudable adolescent cast."—Kirkus Reviews
Thirteen-year-old Emma Murry has three goals for summer finish her art terms project, land an ollie, and help the environmental club save the monarchs.
But then her Instagram crush Jeb Scott and his celebrity dad Chester make a surprise visit to Black Mountain. At first, Emma is thrilled, then she overhears their plans to destroy the monarch butterfly garden to build a ski resort. She and her best friend Sophie add a new summer STOP. THE. SCOTTS.
Emma ignores Sophie's warnings and makes friends with Jeb, convinced she can change his mind. Then when Chester receives a mysterious death threat, Emma teams up with Jeb to investigate. She slowly discovers people are not what they seem as she attempts to untangle friendships, organize a protest, and uncover supernatural secrets hiding on the mountain.
Emma will have to go through her own metamorphosis by overcoming her fears and facing what she dreads. If she fails, she could jeopardize everything—butterflies, friendships, and her family.
" A smart, riveting environmental tale with a laudable adolescent cast."—Kirkus Reviews
Thirteen-year-old Emma Murry has three goals for summer finish her art terms project, land an ollie, and help the environmental club save the monarchs.
But then her Instagram crush Jeb Scott and his celebrity dad Chester make a surprise visit to Black Mountain. At first, Emma is thrilled, then she overhears their plans to destroy the monarch butterfly garden to build a ski resort. She and her best friend Sophie add a new summer STOP. THE. SCOTTS.
Emma ignores Sophie's warnings and makes friends with Jeb, convinced she can change his mind. Then when Chester receives a mysterious death threat, Emma teams up with Jeb to investigate. She slowly discovers people are not what they seem as she attempts to untangle friendships, organize a protest, and uncover supernatural secrets hiding on the mountain.
Emma will have to go through her own metamorphosis by overcoming her fears and facing what she dreads. If she fails, she could jeopardize everything—butterflies, friendships, and her family.
- GenresMiddle Grade
252 pages, Hardcover
Published March 28, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 7, 2023
I recieved an ARC of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
It was good for a middle grade. It introduces very necessary themes of environmentalism, ecology and stuff which is nice to see, specially as climate change is spiralling out of control and the older generations seem happy to be ignorant about it. The characters were pretty standard for a middle grade, annoying at times but nothing uncommon for a 12 year old. The resolution did feel a bit rushed, I think the paranormal element could've come into play earlier in the story so that it could be fully developed. There were some aspects of it that I got, but I don't think they were put there explicitly enough for the target audience to catch.
Literally every sentence in Spanish was written wrong, though. The author mentions in the acknowledgments that someone helped her with it, but I'm like 85% sure that that person doesn't speak Spanish because honestly. It was so bad.
It was good for a middle grade. It introduces very necessary themes of environmentalism, ecology and stuff which is nice to see, specially as climate change is spiralling out of control and the older generations seem happy to be ignorant about it. The characters were pretty standard for a middle grade, annoying at times but nothing uncommon for a 12 year old. The resolution did feel a bit rushed, I think the paranormal element could've come into play earlier in the story so that it could be fully developed. There were some aspects of it that I got, but I don't think they were put there explicitly enough for the target audience to catch.
Literally every sentence in Spanish was written wrong, though. The author mentions in the acknowledgments that someone helped her with it, but I'm like 85% sure that that person doesn't speak Spanish because honestly. It was so bad.
June 23, 2023
Author Rebecca Laxton introduces us to thirteen-year-old Emma, driven by her unwavering passion for nature and its sentient creatures, with a particular focus on the exquisite Monarch butterflies that grace the idyllic landscape of Black Mountain, nestled within the enchanting realms of North Carolina.
Emma's ardent commitment to environmental preservation and her cherished role as a custodian of the delicate ecosystem intertwine seamlessly as she joins forces with her steadfast companion Sophie, united under the banner of their school's esteemed environmental club. Anticipating a summer brimming with moments of joy and dedicated conservation efforts, their idyllic prospects abruptly fade when a troupe of enigmatic visitors descends upon the serene town, heralding a series of bewildering events that disrupt the tranquil balance. In this metamorphic journey reminiscent of the graceful butterflies she adores, Emma must undergo personal growth, adaptability, and transformation in her quest to safeguard all she holds dear.
Laxton's masterful storytelling weaves an intricate tapestry of mystery, imbued with invaluable life lessons regarding environmental stewardship and the profound respect owed to the natural world. The characters that inhabit Laxton's narrative spring to life with vibrant hues, each imbued with a distinct authenticity that resonates deeply. The author's prowess in their creation and vivid depiction is evident, as these diverse personalities embody relatable traits that readily evoke empathy, particularly among adolescent readers seeking common ground within their own lives. Moreover, Laxton's skillful descriptions of the resplendent natural landscapes and settings provide readers with a sensory journey that transcends mere words, as the sights, sounds, and emotions are effortlessly channeled through Emma's artistic soul. Beyond its enthralling narrative and suspenseful plotline, The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry assumes an educational mantle, bestowing upon its readers a heightened awareness of the pressing need to cherish and preserve our environment and its marvelous inhabitants.
With its allure and eloquence, this entertaining read will leave an indelible impression on readers. It is a must-read for anyone seeking an engaging and thought-provoking experience while instilling a sense of duty towards our planet and its delicate ecosystems.
Emma's ardent commitment to environmental preservation and her cherished role as a custodian of the delicate ecosystem intertwine seamlessly as she joins forces with her steadfast companion Sophie, united under the banner of their school's esteemed environmental club. Anticipating a summer brimming with moments of joy and dedicated conservation efforts, their idyllic prospects abruptly fade when a troupe of enigmatic visitors descends upon the serene town, heralding a series of bewildering events that disrupt the tranquil balance. In this metamorphic journey reminiscent of the graceful butterflies she adores, Emma must undergo personal growth, adaptability, and transformation in her quest to safeguard all she holds dear.
Laxton's masterful storytelling weaves an intricate tapestry of mystery, imbued with invaluable life lessons regarding environmental stewardship and the profound respect owed to the natural world. The characters that inhabit Laxton's narrative spring to life with vibrant hues, each imbued with a distinct authenticity that resonates deeply. The author's prowess in their creation and vivid depiction is evident, as these diverse personalities embody relatable traits that readily evoke empathy, particularly among adolescent readers seeking common ground within their own lives. Moreover, Laxton's skillful descriptions of the resplendent natural landscapes and settings provide readers with a sensory journey that transcends mere words, as the sights, sounds, and emotions are effortlessly channeled through Emma's artistic soul. Beyond its enthralling narrative and suspenseful plotline, The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry assumes an educational mantle, bestowing upon its readers a heightened awareness of the pressing need to cherish and preserve our environment and its marvelous inhabitants.
With its allure and eloquence, this entertaining read will leave an indelible impression on readers. It is a must-read for anyone seeking an engaging and thought-provoking experience while instilling a sense of duty towards our planet and its delicate ecosystems.
June 23, 2023
Centered around the theme of environmental care, this engaging novel delves into the summer holidays of thirteen-year-old Emma and her friend Sophie. Their enthralling adventure unfolds in the picturesque setting of Black Mountain, where they strive to preserve a monarch butterfly garden and prevent its conversion into a ski resort. With an unwavering commitment to this noble cause, Emma must confront numerous obstacles, grapple with deception and secrets, and navigate through the unexpected treachery of individuals she once considered her friends. However, her journey extends beyond external challenges as she confronts her inner fears and personal trials, prompting a profound transformation akin to the metamorphosis of a butterfly.
At its core, the book's title aptly captures the essence of its plot—an exploration of the transformative changes intrinsic to adolescence. Emma's experiences mirror those commonly encountered by teenagers: grappling with internal struggles, uncovering latent strengths and vulnerabilities, and illuminating her surroundings with newfound wisdom. Within this narrative framework, the author skillfully weaves together entertainment, suspense, and age-appropriate themes such as autonomy, friendship, romance, and resilience, offering young readers a window into real-world issues. By doing so, Laxton reminds her audience that within every individual lie inherent virtues that can be harnessed and nurtured to forge a path toward personal growth and resilience. The employment of first-person narration enhances the reader's connection with Emma, enabling a deep sense of empathy toward her insecurities and fears. Laxton masterfully employs teen language and expressive dialogue to facilitate a seamless reading experience, allowing readers to effortlessly immerse themselves in the story. The narrative strikes an ideal balance between descriptive passages and engaging dialogues, fostering a swift pace that propels the reader forward. Laxton's vivid imagery evokes a rich visual and imaginative journey, skillfully crafting scenes that spring to life in the reader's mind.
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is the perfect read for young readers, offering the dual purpose of entertainment and companionship throughout their transformative journeys.
At its core, the book's title aptly captures the essence of its plot—an exploration of the transformative changes intrinsic to adolescence. Emma's experiences mirror those commonly encountered by teenagers: grappling with internal struggles, uncovering latent strengths and vulnerabilities, and illuminating her surroundings with newfound wisdom. Within this narrative framework, the author skillfully weaves together entertainment, suspense, and age-appropriate themes such as autonomy, friendship, romance, and resilience, offering young readers a window into real-world issues. By doing so, Laxton reminds her audience that within every individual lie inherent virtues that can be harnessed and nurtured to forge a path toward personal growth and resilience. The employment of first-person narration enhances the reader's connection with Emma, enabling a deep sense of empathy toward her insecurities and fears. Laxton masterfully employs teen language and expressive dialogue to facilitate a seamless reading experience, allowing readers to effortlessly immerse themselves in the story. The narrative strikes an ideal balance between descriptive passages and engaging dialogues, fostering a swift pace that propels the reader forward. Laxton's vivid imagery evokes a rich visual and imaginative journey, skillfully crafting scenes that spring to life in the reader's mind.
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is the perfect read for young readers, offering the dual purpose of entertainment and companionship throughout their transformative journeys.
June 23, 2023
An absorbing novel
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry by Rebecca Laxton is a captivating and enthralling novel that immediately captures the reader's attention. The story revolves around Emma Murry, a thirteen-year-old who embarks on her summer holiday with three personal goals in mind. However, her path intersects with two individuals who have the potential to derail her aspirations, prompting her to reach out to her best friend, Sophie, for assistance. United in their mission, Emma and Sophie strive to dismantle the Scouts, but the complexities of love complicate matters, with Emma developing feelings for Jeb, one of the boys who pose a threat to her goals. Despite Sophie's warnings, Emma forms a close bond with Jeb, driven by her desire to convince him to change his stance. Unsurprisingly, this summer becomes a season of unforeseen surprises and transformative experiences for all involved.
Replete with entertainment and poignant exploration of the common struggles and relationships of teenagers, this book introduces a well-portrayed cast of dynamic characters. Through vivid and engaging dialogues, readers are invited to immerse themselves in the lives, problems, and relationships of these characters. As the pages turn, one can witness their remarkable transformations in the face of various circumstances, particularly Emma, who conquers her fears for both herself and her family, resolute in her quest to discover a more profound sense of self. The narrative unfolds with numerous twists and turns, expertly weaving a plot that is both intricate and captivating. This multifaceted tale encompasses themes of self-transformation, friendship, secrets, love, and adventure, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged. One aspect that stands out is the author's skillful writing style, characterized by its clarity and precision. Rebecca Laxton possesses a unique ability to draw readers into the narrative, regardless of their age, and the underlying theme of self-transformation provides ample food for thought. Personally, I found great enjoyment in this novel and recommend it to others seeking an immersive and thought-provoking literary experience.
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry by Rebecca Laxton is a captivating and enthralling novel that immediately captures the reader's attention. The story revolves around Emma Murry, a thirteen-year-old who embarks on her summer holiday with three personal goals in mind. However, her path intersects with two individuals who have the potential to derail her aspirations, prompting her to reach out to her best friend, Sophie, for assistance. United in their mission, Emma and Sophie strive to dismantle the Scouts, but the complexities of love complicate matters, with Emma developing feelings for Jeb, one of the boys who pose a threat to her goals. Despite Sophie's warnings, Emma forms a close bond with Jeb, driven by her desire to convince him to change his stance. Unsurprisingly, this summer becomes a season of unforeseen surprises and transformative experiences for all involved.
Replete with entertainment and poignant exploration of the common struggles and relationships of teenagers, this book introduces a well-portrayed cast of dynamic characters. Through vivid and engaging dialogues, readers are invited to immerse themselves in the lives, problems, and relationships of these characters. As the pages turn, one can witness their remarkable transformations in the face of various circumstances, particularly Emma, who conquers her fears for both herself and her family, resolute in her quest to discover a more profound sense of self. The narrative unfolds with numerous twists and turns, expertly weaving a plot that is both intricate and captivating. This multifaceted tale encompasses themes of self-transformation, friendship, secrets, love, and adventure, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged. One aspect that stands out is the author's skillful writing style, characterized by its clarity and precision. Rebecca Laxton possesses a unique ability to draw readers into the narrative, regardless of their age, and the underlying theme of self-transformation provides ample food for thought. Personally, I found great enjoyment in this novel and recommend it to others seeking an immersive and thought-provoking literary experience.
July 2, 2023
“The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry” elegantly portrays the tale of thirteen-year-old Emma, an aspiring artist and ardent environmentalist passionately devoted to preserving the ecological integrity of her hometown and, more specifically, its Monarch butterflies. Emma and her trusted confidante, Sophie, frequently find joy in skateboarding and stewarding the verdant greenway of Black Mountain. However, their tranquil routine is interrupted when a famous movie star aims to purchase the greenway and adjacent mountain for conversion into a ski resort, catapulting the girls into a battle to preserve their cherished environment.
Rebecca Laxton artfully intertwines the allure of small-town adventures, imbuing her narrative with a warm and inviting ambiance that is synonymous with the tranquil life of Black Mountain. The characters are intricately woven into the fabric of the town, fostering a sense of community and familiarity. The book is an invitation into a world that feels remarkably real, prompting the reader to step into its narrative sphere and be reluctant to exit. Laxton leaves a trail of breadcrumbs for potential sequels, and I can’t help but hope that she explores the possibility of further tales set in Black Mountain.
Laxton’s ability to inject her narrative with tangible elements rooted in reality offers a unique and intriguing dimension to her storytelling. She selects an actual location in North Carolina, reinforcing her story with well-documented aspects such as the Dog Man map sightings, an authentic resource readily available online. She crafts her narrative with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating interesting facets like a playful ghost in Emma’s father’s shop that develops a penchant for hiding dolls. Although these elements do not directly influence the storyline, they significantly enhance the reader’s engagement.
The prose is well-crafted, and the narrative masterfully straddles the line between heartwarming insight and palpable suspense, weaving an essential thread of environmental consciousness throughout. This book is a shining testament to Laxton’s literary prowess, making it an irresistible addition to any reading list.
Rebecca Laxton artfully intertwines the allure of small-town adventures, imbuing her narrative with a warm and inviting ambiance that is synonymous with the tranquil life of Black Mountain. The characters are intricately woven into the fabric of the town, fostering a sense of community and familiarity. The book is an invitation into a world that feels remarkably real, prompting the reader to step into its narrative sphere and be reluctant to exit. Laxton leaves a trail of breadcrumbs for potential sequels, and I can’t help but hope that she explores the possibility of further tales set in Black Mountain.
Laxton’s ability to inject her narrative with tangible elements rooted in reality offers a unique and intriguing dimension to her storytelling. She selects an actual location in North Carolina, reinforcing her story with well-documented aspects such as the Dog Man map sightings, an authentic resource readily available online. She crafts her narrative with meticulous attention to detail, incorporating interesting facets like a playful ghost in Emma’s father’s shop that develops a penchant for hiding dolls. Although these elements do not directly influence the storyline, they significantly enhance the reader’s engagement.
The prose is well-crafted, and the narrative masterfully straddles the line between heartwarming insight and palpable suspense, weaving an essential thread of environmental consciousness throughout. This book is a shining testament to Laxton’s literary prowess, making it an irresistible addition to any reading list.
April 24, 2023
Emma and her friends in the Black Mountain Middle School Environmental Club have worked hard to plant shrubs and flowers that will support monarch butterflies along the Greenway in town. She and her best friend Sophie even asked for plants instead of presents at their most recent birthday because they are so dedicated to preventing the extinction of the monarchs. So when they learn that a celebrity is planning to purchase land in the area and build a ski resort that will negatively impact the Greenway and the butterfly garden, they spring into action. Flyers, a petition, a presentation at the city council meeting…these teens are determined to protect the beauty of their town.
Middle school is a time of change - of metamorphosis - one might say. Emma and her companions are dealing with possible changes to their beloved butterfly garden and town, changes in their friendships, how to include new arrivals, disagreements on how to approach townsfolk to gain their support, whether to believe local legends or not, etc. The story captures that feeling of uncertainty, of worrying that friends are finding new interests or even new “besties,” and the flustered nature of first crushes.
I especially enjoyed the way that art terms were used to start off each chapter. Emma is keeping an art journal over the summer and must create an image to exemplify balance, line, contrast and other terms. Those same terms can be seen at work within the chapters. For instance, Emma associates a particular “color” with each person she knows, while the girls learn that their fathers have different ideas of the “value” of the ski resort being built. This is a great book for middle grade readers who enjoy stories of teamwork, environmental awareness, artistic projects, and the ins and outs of friendship.
Middle school is a time of change - of metamorphosis - one might say. Emma and her companions are dealing with possible changes to their beloved butterfly garden and town, changes in their friendships, how to include new arrivals, disagreements on how to approach townsfolk to gain their support, whether to believe local legends or not, etc. The story captures that feeling of uncertainty, of worrying that friends are finding new interests or even new “besties,” and the flustered nature of first crushes.
I especially enjoyed the way that art terms were used to start off each chapter. Emma is keeping an art journal over the summer and must create an image to exemplify balance, line, contrast and other terms. Those same terms can be seen at work within the chapters. For instance, Emma associates a particular “color” with each person she knows, while the girls learn that their fathers have different ideas of the “value” of the ski resort being built. This is a great book for middle grade readers who enjoy stories of teamwork, environmental awareness, artistic projects, and the ins and outs of friendship.
June 18, 2023
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is a book by Rebecca Laxton. Emma lives in Western North Carolina among beautiful mountains and a butterfly garden. She jots down sketchbook definitions as she recreates art from the nature around her. Her favorite spots are Paul’s Peak and the monarch butterfly garden, and she and her friend, Sophie, visit them often. However, a famous actor, Chester Scott, and his Instagram-famous son, Jeb, visit the town with the intention of buying both pieces of land for a ski resort, increasing the town’s revenue but destroying a natural habitat. The fate of the town lies in the hands of the community members who organize a town meeting to discuss rezoning. Jeb seems to like Emma, and she exploits his offer of friendship to convince him to change his father’s mind about the ski resort. There are old secrets in the town, and one of them draws Jeb and Emma closer before the town meeting that may tear them apart.
Rebecca Laxton has written a fun early teen novel that weaves together the beauty of nature, friendship, and science! Emma’s summer art journal reflects definitions that tie the book together at the end, and Gracie Laxton’s illustrations are lovely. The plot of the book is clear and the characters are so complex that they could be real. Black Mountain is a real place, and the vibrant area and solid community members are clearly related. Laxton’s words are especially poignant when one of her characters compares a monarch’s journey to a teen’s coming-of-age, threading the example into the title of the book. The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is a great selection for teen readers who enjoy modern stories about friendship and the environment, and it would be at home on a personal bookshelf as well as on the shelves of public libraries.
Rebecca Laxton has written a fun early teen novel that weaves together the beauty of nature, friendship, and science! Emma’s summer art journal reflects definitions that tie the book together at the end, and Gracie Laxton’s illustrations are lovely. The plot of the book is clear and the characters are so complex that they could be real. Black Mountain is a real place, and the vibrant area and solid community members are clearly related. Laxton’s words are especially poignant when one of her characters compares a monarch’s journey to a teen’s coming-of-age, threading the example into the title of the book. The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is a great selection for teen readers who enjoy modern stories about friendship and the environment, and it would be at home on a personal bookshelf as well as on the shelves of public libraries.
June 23, 2023
As we delve into Emma's world, we become deeply invested in her journey, experiencing the highs and lows that epitomize the adolescent spirit of dreams, aspirations, and challenges. The author skillfully portrays the relatable nature of the main characters, fostering a strong sense of identification and instilling a profound desire to witness their triumphs.
However, the plot takes an unexpected turn when Emma's fascination with Jeb Scott, an Instagram personality, and his father Chester brings unforeseen complications to her idyllic Black Mountain. Initially elated by their presence, Emma's joy begins to wane as she discovers their intentions to demolish the cherished monarch butterfly garden, replacing it with a ski resort. Thus begins her transformative quest, where the value of community, collaboration, and the development of inner strength and resilience come to the forefront as she endeavors to save the garden from impending destruction.
From this point onward, the novel acquires a deeper significance as Emma confronts her anxieties, surmounts daunting challenges, and summons the fortitude necessary to defend her unwavering convictions. Skillfully interwoven throughout the narrative are the exploration of themes such as environmental preservation, friendship, family dynamics, and personal growth, all of which enrich the reading experience. Personally, what struck me the most was the seamless blend of engaging storytelling and profound messages, reminding us of the intrinsic worth of a well-crafted literary work.
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is sure to inspire and motivate young readers. It serves as a compelling call to pursue one's goals, defend cherished values, and make a positive impact on the world around us.
However, the plot takes an unexpected turn when Emma's fascination with Jeb Scott, an Instagram personality, and his father Chester brings unforeseen complications to her idyllic Black Mountain. Initially elated by their presence, Emma's joy begins to wane as she discovers their intentions to demolish the cherished monarch butterfly garden, replacing it with a ski resort. Thus begins her transformative quest, where the value of community, collaboration, and the development of inner strength and resilience come to the forefront as she endeavors to save the garden from impending destruction.
From this point onward, the novel acquires a deeper significance as Emma confronts her anxieties, surmounts daunting challenges, and summons the fortitude necessary to defend her unwavering convictions. Skillfully interwoven throughout the narrative are the exploration of themes such as environmental preservation, friendship, family dynamics, and personal growth, all of which enrich the reading experience. Personally, what struck me the most was the seamless blend of engaging storytelling and profound messages, reminding us of the intrinsic worth of a well-crafted literary work.
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is sure to inspire and motivate young readers. It serves as a compelling call to pursue one's goals, defend cherished values, and make a positive impact on the world around us.
November 23, 2023
Emma wants to save the Butterfly Garden from getting built on by a ski resort.
Emma Murry, a 13-year-old girl, is having a good summer with some projects, such as helping save the monarch butterflies and finishing her art project. One day, Emma and her best friend, Sophie, receive terrible news that someone is trying to purchase land, including the Butterfly Garden where the monarchs lived, to build a ski resort on top of it. It turns out the buyers who came to town were Chester Scott and his son, Jeb, whom Emma follows on Instagram and likes. So, Emma is determined to befriend Jeb so that the Butterfly Garden gets saved. Will she succeed?
I loved the setting on a mountain since mountains are one of my favorite landscapes. I pictured the Smokey Mountains the whole time when I read this book. This book mentions an old Aztec myth about a wolf-shifter since Emma suspected such a thing could be at play in the events. Also, each chapter had little illustrations and art concepts.
Emma is a creative girl. Emma is also determined to do what is right, and she has phasmophobia (fear of ghosts) like I do. I love art, too, and I just visited the Frist Art Museum in Nashville and thought about Emma.
Sophie is a get-it-done person. Jeb is a cool guy. Cami (one of Emma's friends) was my favorite because she is a quirky and lovable character.
Give this book to anyone who loves an engaging, realistic story.
Thanks again for this beautiful book.
Emma Murry, a 13-year-old girl, is having a good summer with some projects, such as helping save the monarch butterflies and finishing her art project. One day, Emma and her best friend, Sophie, receive terrible news that someone is trying to purchase land, including the Butterfly Garden where the monarchs lived, to build a ski resort on top of it. It turns out the buyers who came to town were Chester Scott and his son, Jeb, whom Emma follows on Instagram and likes. So, Emma is determined to befriend Jeb so that the Butterfly Garden gets saved. Will she succeed?
I loved the setting on a mountain since mountains are one of my favorite landscapes. I pictured the Smokey Mountains the whole time when I read this book. This book mentions an old Aztec myth about a wolf-shifter since Emma suspected such a thing could be at play in the events. Also, each chapter had little illustrations and art concepts.
Emma is a creative girl. Emma is also determined to do what is right, and she has phasmophobia (fear of ghosts) like I do. I love art, too, and I just visited the Frist Art Museum in Nashville and thought about Emma.
Sophie is a get-it-done person. Jeb is a cool guy. Cami (one of Emma's friends) was my favorite because she is a quirky and lovable character.
Give this book to anyone who loves an engaging, realistic story.
Thanks again for this beautiful book.
June 23, 2023
Navigating a labyrinth of twists and turns, Emma and her steadfast friend, Sophie, courageously endeavor to thwart this perilous undertaking. Yet, the question looms large—can they successfully challenge the powerful and resourceful Jed and his influential father? Will their resolve waver in the face of overwhelming fame?
Noteworthy is the author's commendable writing style, which is skillfully tailored to engage and resonate with the intended young audience. Laxton strikes a delightful balance between freshness and modernity, an all too rare attribute in contemporary literature. Moreover, it is a commendable feat to discover a book that embraces wholesome values and non-violent themes—a genuine gem in today's literary landscape. The characters spring to life with vivid descriptions, allowing readers to forge a deep connection with Emma, whose metamorphosis throughout the narrative proves truly captivating. Witnessing her transformation and the evolution of her thoughts is an awe-inspiring journey in itself.
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is the perfect read for young readers eager to embark on a fictional adventure brimming with love, determination, and unwavering friendship. This remarkable work not only ignites the imagination but also instills a sense of purpose, inspiring young hearts to fight for their ideals while cherishing the bonds of camaraderie.
Noteworthy is the author's commendable writing style, which is skillfully tailored to engage and resonate with the intended young audience. Laxton strikes a delightful balance between freshness and modernity, an all too rare attribute in contemporary literature. Moreover, it is a commendable feat to discover a book that embraces wholesome values and non-violent themes—a genuine gem in today's literary landscape. The characters spring to life with vivid descriptions, allowing readers to forge a deep connection with Emma, whose metamorphosis throughout the narrative proves truly captivating. Witnessing her transformation and the evolution of her thoughts is an awe-inspiring journey in itself.
The Metamorphosis of Emma Murry is the perfect read for young readers eager to embark on a fictional adventure brimming with love, determination, and unwavering friendship. This remarkable work not only ignites the imagination but also instills a sense of purpose, inspiring young hearts to fight for their ideals while cherishing the bonds of camaraderie.
August 3, 2023
This is a great read for a middle schooler. It is an engaging story, great characters, adventure, and civic duty / pride. I loved how the author used land development to show how the process works within a town. Getting signatures, talking to neighbors, and seeing that not everyone has the same needs and goals in mind was really effectively done in this book. The viewpoints of the characters were diverse with very strong opinions within the community,
The story also showed the main characters growing and changing as their friendships evolved. I appreciated the honesty of the struggles of growing up and dealing with adult issues while still being a tween.
The folk lore and ghost stories were really interesting and I was really wanted them to develop further but I felt like the author just left the reader hanging without concluding things one way or another.
I was extremely curious about how the author would end the book and I was very satisfied with the ending. Very smart.
I think any age person will enjoy this book.
Enjoy!
The story also showed the main characters growing and changing as their friendships evolved. I appreciated the honesty of the struggles of growing up and dealing with adult issues while still being a tween.
The folk lore and ghost stories were really interesting and I was really wanted them to develop further but I felt like the author just left the reader hanging without concluding things one way or another.
I was extremely curious about how the author would end the book and I was very satisfied with the ending. Very smart.
I think any age person will enjoy this book.
Enjoy!
April 15, 2023
A lovely middle grades story about friendship, trust, and finding your own voice. Emma and her friends from the middle school environmental club are on a mission to stop a ski resort development in their hometown of Black Mountain. The author does a good job of bringing the characters to life - they are relatable and authentic to today’s middle grades readers.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the eARC of this title.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the eARC of this title.
December 2, 2023
I found this book quite charming, and it was simple but clever at the same time. I immediately felt a connection with Emma as the protagonist, and I loved her enthusiasm and creativity. It was heartwarming to be part of her journey, and I know that my younger self would have felt the same way too.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thank you to Booksprout and the author for a free copy to review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2023
This book has so much to love! Spot-on upper MG voice, characters navigating crushes, friendships, and family disillusionment…environment-friendly STEM themes…an immersive, quaint mountain town setting…a spooky hint of the supernatural…and beautiful chapter heading art. Young readers will enjoy the story and learn a lot about visual art and environmental issues, particularly monarch conservation.
June 22, 2023
Kids will love Emma and her determination to save the butterflies. They will relate to the conflict she faces when she meets her crush in person and believes she can change his mind about developing her beloved mountain. Add in a supernatural mystery and readers will be pulled into the adventure and won't put the book down until they reach the end.
November 16, 2023
Honestly, I just didn't really like this one. The writing wasn't my style, and I didn't really enjoy the story the way I thought I would. It was okay, nothing more, nothing less.
February 26, 2024
Delightful!
August 18, 2025
I thought the book was good it’s was definitely missing one little thing but overall this book is amazing.
April 20, 2023
This book has everything a tween (or adult) would want in a book. Emma and her friends are spending their summer helping the butterflies by planting a pollination area with beautiful plants. When someone wants to tear down their area to put up a ski resort Emma and her friends know they have to do something. What follows is a story of fighting for what you believe in with a crush and a potential werewolf mixed in for added excitement.
The book also highlights nature and how important it is as the friends try to stop the ski resort from being built. This is exactly the type of book I would have wanted to read at this age and I enjoyed the book at my current age! One of the things I loved most about this book is the descriptions of Emma’s art. I could almost see the colors she was trying to match perfectly with the scene she was painting. The title is incredibility clever because butterflies play a large part in the book and Emma is growing and undergoing changes the same as a caterpillar does changing into a butterfly.
The book also highlights nature and how important it is as the friends try to stop the ski resort from being built. This is exactly the type of book I would have wanted to read at this age and I enjoyed the book at my current age! One of the things I loved most about this book is the descriptions of Emma’s art. I could almost see the colors she was trying to match perfectly with the scene she was painting. The title is incredibility clever because butterflies play a large part in the book and Emma is growing and undergoing changes the same as a caterpillar does changing into a butterfly.
April 30, 2023
Don't miss this cute novel about friendship, community, and environmental awareness. As an educator, I'm constantly looking for novels that enhance our interdisciplinary program while also being appropriate for middle school students. This novel provides all of that without any foul language or sexual content. Two young girls fight to save their town's Monarch butterfly habitat from commercial development. In a wonderful combination of art theory and science, Laxton provides ample material to research and discuss with young readers.
The only part that I anticipate my sixth grade girls won't love is the ending. While it has a happy ending, it's a bit anti-climatic and fast. Even so, this will definitely be on the reading list!
The only part that I anticipate my sixth grade girls won't love is the ending. While it has a happy ending, it's a bit anti-climatic and fast. Even so, this will definitely be on the reading list!
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