Module 5: Picture Books

Diary of a Fly by Doreen Cronin and Harry Bliss (ill.)

Cronin, D. (2007). Diary of a fly. New York: Joanna Cotler Books.

Summary

This wonderful, funny picture book follows the life of fly as he enters school and goes about her daily routine. She talks about school projects, her adventures with friends and her 327 siblings, and her discoveries about the food chain and finally what it means to be a superhero. The unique perspective and diary format of this book make it quirky and engaging. The illustrations are also humorous and contain little details that make the overall experience more enjoyable.


My Thoughts

Cronin's take on the daily life of fly and her thoughts and machinations make for a great read. The illustrations are funny and support the witty thoughts of the fly. What makes this book so appealing is that the fly goes through the same experiences that many children do such as being nervous about the first day of school, behaving for the babysitter and learning new things with friends. The fly has a very distinct voice and character which helps make her easy to relate to for the reader. The diary format and short, funny entries make this book a fun, quick read for younger readers. I think this would be a great storytime read or even as a funny addition to a science lesson about insects.

Review

PreS-Gr 3-- A young fly documents many everyday situations in her diary, from fitting in on the first day of school to having trouble with the babysitter, in this book (HarperCollins, 2007) by Doreen Cronin. Fly has 327 brothers and sisters and must learn things like landing on moving targets. Fly wants to be a superhero, but she's worried that she isn't special enough. Worm and Spider, Fly's friends, help her learn that "the world needs all kinds of heroes." This humorous tale includes lots of amazing facts about flies. Illustrator Harry Bliss narrates the characters with appropriately high-pitched voices. All of the text in the illustrations and on the end papers is also narrated, including the dialogue in the comics Fly is reading. Subtle sound effects and occasional music enhance the telling. Youngsters will adore Bliss's detailed, humorous illustrations. Young readers will love this imaginative recreation of a fly's world with a human twist. Wittmann, T. School Library Journal, 2009.