The Butterfly Who Flew in the Rain

Written by Ori Gutin | Illustrated by Winny Kwong-Sito

The Story

This is a story about Cody, a little caterpillar born in the midst of a terrible thunderstorm. With all the other animals hidden away from the rain, Cody is left feeling sad and alone, and wondering if this is how he will feel every day. But then one afternoon, everything changes. Cody becomes a butterfly, the sun starts to shine, and all the animals come out to say hello! Cody finally feels what it’s like to be happy. Until… the storm comes back again! Now, Cody faces a new challenge. Can he find a way to be happy even in the rain, or will the storm get the best of him again?

This story is meant to teach young children that even if things appear impossibly difficult, or it feels as if we’re completely mired in negative emotions or situations with seemingly no end in sight, we must never give up. Sitting around doing nothing, just waiting for happiness or better conditions is not the answer, either. We might think it is, but what do we do then when the tough times come back? The answer is learning to live with our demons and life’s challenges, and make the most of life even though it is difficult. The answer is... learning to fly in the rain.

What People Are Saying

  • “Ori Gutin's children's book is a relatable story about working through a tough time in one's life and coming out the other side with a joyful attitude, all written through the life cycle of a butterfly. It is also beautifully and colorfully illustrated.  Ori was so generous and donated 20 signed copies to our agency to give out to low-income families which was so appreciated by the parents.”

    Diane Van Stralen, Program Coordinator, Bay Area Women’s and Children’s Center

  • "Ori’s debut children’s book, The Butterfly Who Flew in the Rain, is truly fantastic. The text is lyrical and engaging for young listeners and readers. My 18 month old son loved to listen for the words that rhyme. The story of a resilient caterpillar and his supportive animal friends is beautiful and sure to spark conversations to promote the social- emotional well being of children. The gorgeous illustrations accompany the text perfectly. A must read for young children!"

    Kristen Bowman, Teacher and Parent

  • "Ori Gutin has written a lovely book about overcoming adversity. So many of us wait around for life to be "just right" in order to be happy. This rhyming story, with gorgeous illustrations by Winny Kwong-Sito, helps the reader remember that happiness and a new adventure is just one breath, one moment, one decision away. It will surely be a guide for the whole family on how to look for the good when times are hard."

    Andrew Jordan Nance, author of Puppy Mind,The Lion in Me, The Barefoot King, and Mindful Arts in the Classroom.