Megan Hess

That fashionable and kindhearted mouse Claris, whose adventures began in Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris, returns in this second picture-book. Happily settled in her new home, our murine heroine overhears the human woman in whose apartment she lives discussing attending Fashion Week. The coteur-obsessed mouse immediately wishes she could go as well, a wish that comes to fruition in unexpected ways when the lady of the house leaves behind her invitation to the show, and Claris and her friend Monsieur follow after her, in order to restore it...

Once again pairing a rhyming text with bright, colorful illustrations, Australian author/artist Megan Hess, who has worked with many top fashion brands worldwide, delivers a sweet little confection of a picture-book with Claris: Fashion Show Fiasco. Although I did find the text here awkward from time to time - the rhymes were sometimes a little forced - overall I thought this was an entertaining romp, one which emphasized the importance of kindness, even as it depicted an exciting cross-Paris adventure. Recommended to anyone who has read and enjoyed the first story about Claris, as well as to young children who are interested in fashion.… (mer)