The Butterfly Bush

A gripping exploration of the enduring conflict between the past that defines us and the future that beckons us...

Growing up and figuring out who you are has never been easy. When Leandra's mama yanks her off the family farm in Appalachia to fulfill her own big city dreams, Leandra learns that survival is best accomplished by pushing aside her country identity to fit into city life. Yet her Appalachian ways call to her heart, pulling her back to Mamaw, Papaw, the butterfly bush, and home.
While her rich, city boyfriend makes plans to start college, she struggles to find work while juggling family issues. As Mama turns to alcohol to ease her disappointment with her new husband, Leandra is left to look after her little brother burdened with trouble of his own. Soon she discovers she doesn't belong in the city or the country and must see her journey to the end. But where that journey will lead remains both a mystery and a surprise, especially to Leandra.

"Josephine DeFalco gives us an unflinching, honest look at the struggles of the Appalachian people."

Fannie Flagg, Actress, comedian, and author of the book and Academy Award nominated screenplayFried Green Tomatoes "Prepare to get caught up in the twisting heart of a young girl on her journey from farm country life in Appalachia to the urban streets of New Jersey. A southern girl at heart, Leandra Barker must change to survive and thrive in her new environment. Ill-prepared for the difficulties that lie in store as she navigates a tumultuous home life, she finds the courage and resolve to create a life of meaning and ultimately realizes that following your dreams can get in the way of what is important in life."Susan Pohlman, Founder and Director of the Phoenix Writer's network and author of Halfway to Each Other: How a Year in Italy Brought our Family Home