A reader could not ask for a more charming pair than Diva and Flea, from the gifted storytelling team of Mo Willems and Tony DiTerlizzi. Both Diva and Flea live in Paris, but their lives differ greatly: Flea is a street cat with a sense of humor, while Diva is a little dog with a big sense of duty and slightly shaky nerves. What adventures await these new friends?
Willems, best known for the Pigeon (Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!) and the Elephant and Piggie series, has a talent for bold, funny stories with poignant messages. DiTerlizzi, co-creator of the Spiderwick Chronicles, is known for his captivating, detailed illustrations. As a team, they tell a story that is quirky and sweet, enchanting and funny. Willems chooses words and clever phrases that appeal to children, but also add literary flair and absurdity for older readers. DiTerlizzi’s familiar style captures the sights of Paris, giving us a peek into Parisian life. French words interspersed throughout add an exotic flair (and up the book's educational ante), and the portrayal of everyday human trappings (the subway, coffee shops) viewed through animal eyes will have readers smiling at their bizarre take on our world.
Short chapters make The Story of Diva and Flea accessible for independent readers moving into longer, more involved books, and beautiful illustrations will make it a treasured favorite. Readers young and old will be enchanted by these two new friends as they help each other learn and grow, side by side.
