Lewis Trondheim’s The Fly

French comic artist Trondheim (the Monster graphic novel series) presents the world from a fly’s-eye view in this madcap b&w adventure. Even from its first moments of existence, Trondheim’s round, dot-like protagonist discovers that it’s not easy being an insect, emerging from a kitchen garbage pail only to enter a room that’s full of wonders and terrors. An earthworm terrifies, a beetle tries to steal Fly’s comically large shoes, and countertop bottles form a disorienting hall of mirrors. The ick factor turns to high when Fly meets another insect and the friends humorously taste-test their way through the home, immersing themselves in human food, then a poo-laden litter box, before the appearance of various frightening entities tests their mettle. Finally, in a turn toward signature Trondheim, a zap from the TV transforms Fly, turbocharging the story into Godzilla-like territory. Befitting his subject, the creator messes with perspective, illustrating scenes from all angles while providing wordless emotional narration by Fly’s expressive bug-eyes. With the nonstop action unfolding incrementally, each nine-panel page has the cinematic feel of an animation storyboard. Ages 7–12. [em](July) [/em]