One of Paris’s iconic symbols comes to life in this picture book that explores the tragic 2019 fire that destroyed parts of Notre Dame Cathedral as well as the heroic efforts to save the building and its valuable history. Gorgeous full-page illustrations take readers to the top of the cathedral, and into the studios of restoration artists, to tell a story of how Paris’s famous rooster nearly perished and was brought back to life to keep watch over the city.
From his perch atop a weathervane, the copper rooster enjoys one of the best views in Paris - even if the wind does blow him around a bit. But one fateful day a fire breaks out. Sirens sound, firefighters unroll their hoses, and the flames lick at his feathers. The rooster plunges to earth, crying out for his beloved partner Esmerelda. Gravely injured, he is discovered under the rubble by a worker who carefully lifts him out of the wreckage and brings him to a busy workroom. Will he be healed? Will he live to preside again over the city he loves, and in the company of Esmerelda? With sweeping views of Paris, dramatic scenes of the devastating fire, and fascinating insights into the restoration process, this storybook helps kids appreciate the historic and symbolic significance of buildings such as Notre Dame. An illustrated appendix provides background information that readers of every age will find useful. AGES: 4 plus AUTHOR: Geraldine Elschner is the author of numerous books including The Cat and the Bird and Where Is the Frog? and Funny Machines for George the Sheep (published by Prestel). She lives in Heidelberg, Germany.
Remi Saillard’s illustrations have appeared in numerous magazines and children’s books, including Funny Machines for George the Sheep (Prestel). He lives in Strasbourg, France. SELLING POINTS: . The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is one of the most famous buildings in the world, it was an international news event when the fire broke out in 2019. . Taking one of the most iconic elements of the cathedral, this book tells a fictional story about the weathervane, while also introducing children to the building. . This book is part of Prestel’s series of children’s books inspired by famous artworks, artists, and buildings which already has prominent placement in many museums around the country. . The end of this book has a spread that introduces children to the Notre Dame with facts and information about its history.