Butterflies & Books in Mexico City
February 2026
A literary adventure in flight
We’re taking our love of books on the road—literally. Introducing Book Society’s brand-new Traveling Book Club, a community for curious minds and adventurous spirits who believe the best stories don’t just stay on the page.
Inspired by Sara Dykman’s Bicycling with Butterflies and Barbara Kingsolver’s Flight Behavior, our first journey together will be one for the books: we're heading to Mexico City in February 2026 to witness the awe-inspiring monarch butterfly migration, one of nature’s most magical spectacles.
We'll also explore Mexico City’s rich tapestry of food, art, literature, and contemporary culture. And yes, there will be plenty of down time for reading and book shopping!
Pre-Reading
Before we fly south, we’ll read both books together and gather locally to connect and discuss. Think of it as building our little monarch flock before we migrate.
Book club meetings are free for trip attendees.
Not traveling with us? No problem. You can purchase a ticket to join the book club conversations, even if your passport’s staying put this time.
The Trip
Embark on an unforgettable journey tracing the path of the Western monarch butterfly to the misty oyamel fir forests straddling Michoacán and Estado de México, where millions of butterflies gather in one of nature’s most awe-inspiring migrations.
Our adventure begins in vibrant Mexico City, where we’ll dive into the city’s rich tapestry of food, art, and contemporary culture. From there, we’ll drift through the ancient canals of Xochimilco alongside local axolotl researchers, gaining insight into the unique ecology of these living fossils.
Venturing beyond the city, we’ll trek through forested trails known mostly to locals, guided by experts who offer a deep connection to the land and its stories. Our path leads to the breathtaking Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — where the air hums with delicate wings and magic.
This trip is a celebration of transformation, migration, and the threads that connect us — from ecology to culture and community.
This expedition supports Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation
Book Society is thrilled to partner with Fair Travel Co. for our Traveling Book Club adventures. Fair Travel Co. is an expedition company specializing in sustainable, responsible, and ethical travel. Their mission is to provide "ethical roamers" with immersive experiences that support both the environment and local communities. Their values align beautifully with Book Society’s own commitment to intentional, meaningful connection—whether through stories or shared experiences.