"With spare, fluid language, [Sonnichsen] creates the endearing, authentic, nuanced emotions of a girl stuck between two worlds and brings to light a foundling's hope and determination. An adoption story that's rich in family complexities and that readers won't abandon."

– Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

"Readers everywhere will empathize with and root for Kara as she discovers where she belongs and her true home."

– School Library Journal

"Sonnichsen creates a palpable sense of yearning for home and belonging...in this heartbreaking, heartwarming, and impressive debut."

– Publishers Weekly, STARRED REVIEW

"Sonnichsen’s sparse narrative in free verse moves Kara’s life along with deliberate sentiment, effort, and loyalty. Sympathetic readers will appreciate that Kara learns to build trust with those who demonstrate their compassion in constructive attempts to right some of the wrongs of her difficult beginnings."

– Booklist

"Both an individually compelling tale and an acknowledgment of the complexity of adoption..."

– The Children's Bulletin

"Red Butterfly is raw honesty interwoven with hope, as layered as life itself. This book deeply moved me."

– Carolyn Starr Rose, author of MAY B.