LITTLE DIVA
by LaChanze & illustrated by Brian Pinkney
An award-winning combo, she of the Tony and he of the ALA variety, perform a spirited duet of words and pictures in which Nena, the “D.I.T.—that’s a Diva-in-Training,” narrates a day in her life. Mommy is a Broadway star, and Nana shares their home. “Divas in Training” dress and move with style, vocalize and on matinee days get to hang out backstage at the theater trying on costumes and assisting the stage manager. Family love and affection is strong, especially when Mommy leaves for the evening performance with many kisses for Nena and Nana tucks her into bed. Pinkney’s art swirls about in black lines adorned with yellows, pinks and blues, infusing each page with an infectious upbeat. The swooping lines effectively evoke the bundle of energy that is Nena and the excitement of live performance. All young ones who dream of dressing up and performing will find a kindred spirit in Nena. This should play to sold-out audiences. Accompanying CD read and sung by the author not heard. (Picture book. 3-7)