Book excerpt: At the heart of this fictional work of survival is one of the most spectacular life cycles on earth, that of Danaus plexipus or the Monarch Butterfly. As this iconic insect’s annual migration dances to the tune played by the weather, so does the North American plot alternate between the mountains of Central Mexico and rural Eastern Ontario, Canada. Two families, the Santanas and the Desjardins are brought together by their love of this tiny creature. Over the twelve months from November 2010 to November 2011, the monarchs migrate between their two countries, just as they have for millennia. More than ever, they have become a beacon of hope for all that is beautiful and fragile in our world. Like the “canary in a coal mine”, the monarchs hover between survival and extinction. Threatened by extreme weather, deforestation, and the degradation of their food sources, these environmental concerns make up the fabric of this book. Other threads in the story are the technologies that invade our privacy under the guise of public safety and security. Since Rachel Carson’s "Silent Spring", the unbridled greed and avarice of immense international agrochemical companies continue. Bent on leaving our world a toxic wasteland with all the attendant diseases, cancer strikes down the story’s young protagonist, Anne Desjardins. Gone are her carefree and pastoral days of hayrides, bird’s nests and clear blue skies. It will take more than just a medical breakthrough to deliver her from her health crucible and “slip the surly bonds of earth”. In order for Anne to survive, it will take the far more powerful forces of courage, friendship, and love to turn the tide and help to bring this tale to its hopeful conclusion. As the story ends, two young lovers share their first kiss under the Mexican stars.