The Tale of Betsy Butterfly

In Pleasant Valley every creature has a distinct personality, from the boisterous Jasper Jay to the mischievous Peter Mink. Yet the one who truly brightens the meadow is Betsy Butterfly, whose violet‑tipped wings flutter among the blossoms on sunny days, making both flowers and sky seem more delicate. The locals adore her, insisting that even the weather smiles when she’s aloft, though she only ventures out when the sun is kind. A few jealous insects mutter about her colors and long tongue, but Betsy meets their whispers with a sweet greeting and an unwavering cheerfulness.

Enter Johnnie Green, a restless collector who has already amassed rocks, eggs, stamps, and tobacco tags. When the summer heat arrives, he sets his sights on butterflies, a decision that ripples through the valley. The news reaches the insects quickly, stirring excitement among the fluttering families and uneasy murmurs from the more grounded critters, especially the wary Mr. Crow. As Johnnie prepares his new hobby, the valley watches, wondering what will happen when his collection turns from admiration to capture.