The Story of Diva and Flea

Inspired by a real-life dog and cat Willems met during a stay in Paris, this tender friendship story traces the developing rapport between Diva, a small dog who takes seriously the job of guarding her home on 11 avenue le Play, and a roving black cat named Flea. Flea considers himself a flaneur, one who "has seen everything, but still looks for more, because there is always more to discover," as Willems explains. He sets the story over several acts, complete with two intermissions ("le premier entracte" and "le deuxieme entracte"), as Diva cautiously ventures out to see the wonders beyond her courtyard and Flea learns that a home can be a lovely thing (and that not all brooms are made for swatting at stray cats). Dabbed with greens and reds, DiTerlizzi's elegant images of Parisian landmarks, handsome buildings, and the feisty interactions between Diva and Flea make the story feel instantly fit for translation to the big screen, and may have some adult readers checking airfares. Ages 6-8. Author's agent: Marcia Wernick, Wernick & Pratt Agency. Illustrator's agency: Gotham Group. (Oct.)

Gr 2-4--Flea is a flaneur, an alley cat happy to take the world as it comes, seeking out new adventures every day. Diva is a pampered pooch who lives at the 11 avenue La Play apartment building. Laid back Flea is out and about on one of his adventures when he spies Diva. While initially apprehensive about this cat who comes and goes, Diva grows curious about Flea. One day, with his encouragement, she cautiously ventures beyond the wrought iron fence that frames her world and follows the feline to see the tower that can "cut a cloud in half." When she in turn invites him to explore her world inside the apartment, he is the one who must be trustful and brave. The occasional French word or chapter title paired with DiTerlizzi's gorgeous illustrations work together to create an appropriately Parisian feel throughout. The charming endpapers, ornate chapter heading designs, and rich paper feel further extend the visual and tactile appeal of this work. With a message that facing fear and getting to know someone new will open one's world, young readers will find much to love about Diva and Flea. VERDICT An excellent addition to chapter book collections.--Laura Fields Eason, Parker Bennett Curry Elementary School, Bowling Green, KY