Fly, Butterfly - a soul-stirring novel of reinvention, courage, transformation–and the true meaning of success.
The Story
Maya Williams is a high-flying executive in New York, a woman who has spent years climbing the corporate ladder, chasing achievements, and defining herself by her work. But when one bold decision threatens everything she has worked for, her carefully built world starts to crumble. Lost and uncertain, Maya follows a whisper of intuition and retreats to the lush, untamed beauty of Kaua’i, Hawaii, hoping to find clarity.
What she doesn’t expect is to be completely shaken by the island’s energy, the wisdom of its people, and the breathtaking stillness that forces her to look inward. As Maya slows down, she begins to unravel a truth she has long ignored: she has been flying in the wrong direction.
With each sunrise over the ocean, each deep conversation with the islanders, and each moment of self-discovery, Maya starts to see life through a new lens. But when she returns to the corporate world, a question lingers: Can she bring this newfound wisdom into a world obsessed with speed, power, and external validation? Or will she be forced to choose between success and happiness?
Inspired by true events, Fly, Butterfly by Annicken R. Day is more than just a novel—it’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and redefine what truly matters. A must-read for anyone on the verge of transformation, this book will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about career, happiness, and the art of truly living.
Said about the book
“Annicken R. Day has a gift for transforming bureaucracies into businesses that buzz with creativity and joy. With her debut novel, she shows that she also has a knack for crafting stories about transforming ourselves."
– Adam Grant, 3 times #1 NYT Bestselling Author and host of the TED Podcasts Worklife and ReThink.
“Fly, Butterfly is a page turner that draws you in and makes you nod furiously, laugh deeply, and then sob with empathy. This is a powerful novel that has the energy to inspire change."
– Amy Brann, Author of Engaged, Make Your Brain Work and Neuroscience for Coaches.
“Annicken R. Day has an incredible gift for connecting with the reader while making us think about how we might want to transform ourselves to find happiness, joy, and fulfillment."
– Connie Steele, Future of Work Expert, Author of Building The Business of You.
About The Author,
Annicken R. Day
At the tender age of six, Norwegian-born Annicken R. Day declared her life and career ambition: to be happy! Since then, joy has been her guiding star, impacting her life and career, resulting in a career in leadership and organisational development, acquiring an in-depth and unique expertise in building thriving team cultures and successful businesses.
Former Chief Culture Officer in the IT business, and founder and CEO of Corporate Spring, Annicken's human-centric approach to leadership, culture and organisational life has made an enduring impact on leaders, teams, and companies worldwide.
Her dedication to making a positive difference in the work world has taken her to stages around the world, including appearances on TEDx and in addressing the United Nations. She continues to advocate for purpose, joy and happiness as vital elements for personal and organizational health and success.
Annicken's bestselling debut novel, Fly, Butterfly is inspired by her own life philosophy and choices. The book, translated to multiple languages, has inspired readers around the world to redefine success and happiness,
and, for some, make new and brave choices for themselves. Just like Maya.
