There’s room for a little spooky and a little creepy on Halloween night, especially for the older kids. The Spider and the Fly is certainly a little creepy, but it’s a great Halloween book with amazing illustrations! Howl-O-Ween at the Zoo will also be good for a little scare. Intended for kids 8 years old or older, this will be a good event for those looking to scream this weekend.

The Book

The Spider and the Fly

Author: Mary Howitt

Illustrator: Tony DiTerlizzi

The book brief: “‘Will you walk into my parlor?’ said the Spider to the Fly. ..” Is easily one of the most  recognized and  quoted first lines in all of English verse. But do you have any idea how the age-old tale of the Spider and Fly ends? Join celebrated artist Tony DiTerrlizzi as he- drawing inspiration from one of his loves, the classic Hollywood horror movies of the 1920′s and 1930′s -shines a cinematic spotlight on Mary Howitt’s warning, written to her own children about those who use sweet words to hide their not-so-sweet intentions.

About the Author: Based on a cautionary poem by Mary Howitt written in 1829.

About the Illustrator: Acclaimed children’s book creator, Tony DiTerlizzi was born into an artistic household on September 6, 1969. . At an early age Tony began embracing the whimsical, the wondrous, and the fantastic, all of which sparked his wild imagination.

Tony lives and works in western Massachusetts with his wife (and manager) Angela, and their pug, Goblin. His latest picture book, G is for One Gzonk (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2006), is not only a nonsense alphabet book, but an homage to the late Dr. Seuss’who inspired a young boy from Florida with dreams of one day becoming a children’s book creator.

The Blast

Howl-O-Ween

Dates: Friday and Saturday, October 30 and 31, 2009

Time: 6:30-10:30pm

Cost: $6 for Zoo Members; $8 for Non Members

The Blast:The Phoenix Zoo introduces, “Howl-O-Ween,” a brand new event that will offer experiences sure to terrify those looking for a good scare!

Howl-O-Ween will offer a variety of activities that cater to both the brave and the not so brave. All activities will be broken down into 1 of 3 scare levels indicated by the number of skulls shown, 1 skull (Scare Level 1) being the least scary and 3 skulls (Scare Level 3) being the scariest. Please note that Scare Level 3 activities are intended and were created to be terrifying, so please be aware of the activity’s scare level before participating.

Howl-O-Ween was created for kids ages 8 and up.

Extra Tips for Good Time!

• Visit The Phoenix Zoo’s Howl-O-Ween website to determine what Scare Level you or your kids would like to participate in.
• Don’t expect to see any animals, most of the animals are not nocturnal and will be off exhibit.
• Tickets for the event can be purchased online but are non-refundable, be sure you can attend before you purchase.
• Stay in a group, stay safe and have a very Happy Halloween!

ages 8 and up.