25th ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF A BELOVED CHILDREN'S CLASSIC: In 1992, master toymaker, storyteller, and painter David Kirk created Miss Spider for his young daughter, Violet. Her fascination with the bug world and nature inspired him to create a story about a lonely spider who triumphs over rejection and fear through her goodness and love. Miss Spider’s Tea Party became an immediate bestseller and launched a book series that sold more than five million copies in twelve languages. "So why do insects run away, As they catch sight of me, When all that I am trying to do, Is ask them in for tea?" So wonders a solitary Miss Spider, unaware that her fellow bugs, terribly afraid of a creature so seemingly different, dare not even consider attending her party. Until, as events unfold, they see how gracious a spider she really is. For this story, his first picture book, David Kirk created 35 arresting paintings and original verse about an enticing arachnid and a host of other many-legged creatures. Readers of all ages can't help cheering for Miss Spider in this engaging tale that may also be read as a counting book. Honors: Parenting magazine Best Book of the Year; National Parenting Publications Honor Book; Parents' Choice Award-winner. Miss Spider and her family have won the hearts of children with their life-affirming outlook for a quarter of a century now. This gorgeous new edition of Miss Spider's Tea Party celebrates Miss Spider's success and welcomes the next generation of young readers.