This beautifully illustrated reworking of Mary Howitt’s poem The Spider and Fly is a must read from classic children’s literature. Originally published in 1829, the poem tells the story of a fly who meets a spider. and through flattery convinces The fly accepts the spider’s flattery and that leads to her demise. The poem was written for the author’s children to teach them about people who use sweet words but have not so sweet intentions. The illustrations are expertly done in black and white to give the book a 1920s horror movie look. This book was a 2003 Caldecott Honor Book and it definitely deserved this honor. Although the story is a little dark, children will enjoy the illustrations and the moral of the story. It would be a good book for ages 4 and up although a younger child might love the illustrations.
Mary Howitt was a prolific 19th century English writer who wrote over 180 books and poems. She was an influence on other English writers including Lewis Carroll. Tony DiTerlizzi is a well known illustrator and movie producer.
Check the WRL catalog for The Spider and the Fly.
