The Butterfly Shell is Maureen White’s first novel, and is a truly gripping and emotional read. Following the story of Marie who feels haunted by the ghost of her baby sister, also called Marie, the author takes the reader into the life of a girl who, while trying to work her way through grief, has to deal with a new school and bullying.
For Marie making friends in first year is tough, and a group of girls called ‘The Secret Six’, led by ringleader Rachel, single out Marie and pick on her. Sadly, her only friend, Stella, acts strangely sometimes. Things start to happen in Marie’s life that she can't control or plan, so she tries to find other ways to deal with her pain.
Maureen who was born in Canada and has worked as a writer, director, teacher and dramaturg in Ireland, has written a beautiful story of a young girl's very strange year and a very special shell.
Published by The O’Brien Press, it will be available from Monday, 3rd August 2014.
