The Spider and the Fly

As you all know, Halloween is quickly approaching.  Do you have any spooky stories to read to the kids?

If not, I highly recommend The Spider and the Fly (c. 2003) based on the cautionary tale by Mary Howitt and illustrated by Tony DiTerlizzi.

First of all, Mary Howitt penned the original poem "The Spider and the Fly" in 1829.  And, truth be told, this spooky tale employs an educational purpose of teaching children about the webs that flattery casts.  Think of that age old Biblical proverb "charm is deceitful . . . "

Now, consider this same lesson set against the backdrop of a 1920s haunted mansion.  DiTerlizzi received the Caldecott Honor for his illustrations, which he describes as inspired by "classic Hollywood film noir."  The only warning I would submit is this: DiTerlizzi's mesmerizing illustrations threaten to entice its viewers into minutes, possibly hours, of study and sighs.  Like a magician, the spider pulls quite a hat trick.

Update 10/31/11: Hi, readers!  Just wanted to let you in on a brief update: Nana went to her school library to borrow their copy (since I had hers) to read to her class.  Problem was it was worn out!!!  Seriously!  The librarian is presently ordering a new copy for her little eager readers.  Check it out for yourselves, I'm convinced you won't be disappointed!