Samson, the Mighty Flea!

PreS-Gr 2— Samson, a circus strongman (strong-flea), craves the adulation that only comes with being the "biggest star in the world." So he leaves the tiny Fleabag's Circus and his friends to seek greater glory in the wider world. One friend, Amelie, is particularly sad to see him leave, and tucks a note in his suitcase. As you might expect, fame does not immediately rain down on the miniscule hero, but he soldiers on, training harder than ever. In the end he finds the attention he craves, but realizes that success is not as satisfying as the love and companionship of good friends. It is then that he discovers Amelie's note (stitched on a hankie) and returns to the Fleabag Circus. Amelie has taken over his strong-flea routine, and he discovers that cheering others' successes is more satisfying than searching for his own. The brightly colored illustrations (most spanning two pages) will fix the attention of young listeners. Early readers will find the story engaging.