The Patron Saint of Butterflies (292 Pages)

A first novel for Cecilia Galante, this book mirrors the communes we have heard about where brain washing techniques have been used to control the members. Agnes and Honey have been best friends ever since they were babies. However, Agnes has become so immersed in religion, striving to be a saint as dictated by the leader of the commune, Emmanuel. As the book progresses, the reader is presented with Honey's point of view that something is not right about the whole set up at Mount Blessing. When Nana Pete, Agnes and Benny's grandmother, arrives at the commune, she learns something so frightening to her, that she decides to "kidnap" the three children. Nana Pete's son and daughter in law (Agnes & Benny's Mother and Father) have changed their names and believe Emmanuel is as close to being Jesus as is possible. They go along with everything he says and does. This is another book that "teaches" about the importance of standing up for what you believe. I believe this is one of the most important lessons we can teach our children!