The story of Mademoiselle Oiseau

the long version

"In the heart of Paris lies the Avenue des Temps Perdus. There, on the top floor of a lovely old apartment building, lives the elegant Mademoiselle Oiseau amid cats, birds, sumptuous gowns, and long pearl necklaces. One floor down lives Isabella, a girl who is so unremarkable that she's practically invisible. One day, when Isabella comes home from school and gets in the elevator, she accidentally presses the wrong button and finds herself in Mademoiselle Oiseau's apartment. She is plunged into a fascinating world full of secrets in which time seems to have stood still--and a wonderful friendship begins"--Back cover.