The Butterfly’s Sting
Debut young adult novel out now!
“A knockout.” —#1 New York Times-bestselling author Jason Reynolds
“A raw and absorbing account of abuse and a girl’s relentless fight to claim her freedom.” —Kirkus Reviews
A School Library Journal-starred book
A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection
The Butterfly’s Sting is a School Library Journal starred book!
The reviewer describes Butterfly as “vivid,” “highly descriptive,” “raw and immediate,” and concludes: “its emotional depth makes it a truly impactful read. […] A compelling and important addition for mature young adult collections, this novel powerfully portrays the fight for freedom and self-determination against overwhelming odds.”
The School Library Journal is the “premiere publication for librarians and information specialists who work with children and teens” and published more than 6,000 reviews each year. A starred review indicates a work of special merit or distinction.
Something Bigger: Turning My One Direction Fan Fiction Into My Debut Young Adult Novel
How did The Butterfly’s Sting begin? What was the original idea? In her article for Writer’s Digest, Abbie Harlow describes the process of turning the One Direction fanfiction she wrote in high school into her debut young adult novel.
“If there’s anything I’ve learned from this process,” Harlow says, “it’s not to judge anything by its first draft or form.”
Becoming a Published Author
How do you become a published author? At Saint Joseph Notre Dame High School’s Career Day in February 2025, Abbie Harlow answered that question. She talked with students about how she became interested in writing and the process of writing and preparing her debut novel, The Butterfly’s Sting, ready for publication. To watch her presentation, watch the video!