Starred Review Diva is a tiny white dog who lives in a grand, old apartment building in Paris, France. As the pet of the building's gardienne, she patrols the courtyard, making sure that all is well. Flea, on the other hand, is a large cat who roams Paris' streets. He is a great flur omeone (or somecat) who . . . has seen everything, but still looks for more, because there is always something more to discover." One day Flea's flur-ing takes him past Diva's courtyard, and the two strike up a friendship. Diva, who is skittish and has never traveled, loves hearing of Flea's adventures, particularly the one about the "tower so tall and so pointy that it could cut a cloud in half." Eventually, Flea suggests that Diva go wandering with him, and after some gentle encouragement, Diva takes her first brave steps beyond the courtyard. In return, Diva takes Flea inside her apartment, introducing him to a friendly broom that won't swat cats and the miraculous occurrence known as breakfast. Willems has written a story with winning characters and bursting with tender charm, which is further amplified by DiTerlizzi's expressive, vintage-style illustrations. Humor and sincerity walk paw in paw through this simple chapter book, inspiring exploration, bravery, and making friends. Be warned: excessive smiling may occur while reading. HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY: Willems and DiTerlizzi are a children's book dream team. Stock up!

Gr 2-4 Flea is a fl âneur, 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