The Spider and the Fly

The Spider and the Fly was written originally by Mary Howitt in 1829 and later illustrated by Tony DiTerlizzi and re-released in 2002. This book received a Caldecott Honor Award in 2003 for its outstanding artwork. DiTerlizzi created the pencil illustrations in this book in silver and black duotones giving it the old time Hollywood film feel.

As a child, I heard the tale originally from my grandmother. When I saw the book at the bookstore, I had to have it because of the memories from it. I was delighted to find DiTerlizzi’s artwork inside. The pictures are WONDERFUL and setting the book up like an old movie just adds to the antiquity of the story.

I have not read any of Mary Howitt’s other stories, but Tony DiTerlizzi has also illustrated the Spiderwick Chronicles which I have read. His illustrations are very distinct and can be pointed out anywhere. The Spider and the Fly is a delightful story for any age.