For generations, children and parents alike have been captivated by the gentle magic and warm Italian village life found in the pages of Tomie dePaola's beloved Strega Nona series. More than just a collection of children's books, these stories have become a cornerstone of classic children's literature, teaching lessons about responsibility, kindness, and the simple joys of community through the adventures of a kindly witch and her sometimes-mischievous assistant, Big Anthony.
The Original Tale That Started It All
The journey begins with the original Strega Nona book, a Caldecott Honor-winning story that introduced the world to "Grandma Witch." Living in a cozy little house in the hills of Calabria, Strega Nona uses her magic to help the villagers with their troubles, from curing headaches to finding lost love. Her most prized possession is a magic pasta pot, and the chaos that ensues when Big Anthony tries to use it without knowing the proper spell is both hilarious and heartwarming. This foundational story is a perfect example of a classic picture book, blending dePaola's distinctive folk-art illustrations with a timeless narrative.
A Treasury of Magical Adventures
For those who wish to immerse themselves fully in this enchanting world, The Magical World of Strega Nona: a Treasury is an essential collection. This volume brings together multiple beloved stories, offering a wonderful way to experience the breadth of dePaola's creation. It's an ideal story treasury for family reading time, allowing you to follow Strega Nona through the seasons and various adventures in one beautiful book. You can delve deeper into the origins of this character by reading Strega Nona: Her Story - The Origin of Tomie dePaola's Beloved Witch to understand her creation.
Celebrating the Seasons with Strega Nona
The beauty of the series lies in how it celebrates the cycles of the year and life's simple pleasures. In Strega Nona's Harvest, readers are treated to a delightful autumn tale about gardening and sharing the bounty. It's a wonderful educational story that introduces concepts of gardening for kids and the importance of the fall harvest. The holiday season shines brightly with Merry Christmas, Strega Nona, a timeless Christmas picture book that embodies the spirit of giving. For a comprehensive look at this holiday classic, check out the Merry Christmas, Strega Nona review.
More Magic, Lessons, and Fun
The adventures continue as Strega Nona decides she needs a break in Strega Nona Takes a Vacation, leaving Big Anthony in charge with predictably chaotic results. For younger readers just starting their literary journey, Strega Nona and Her Tomatoes offers a perfect entry point as an early reader book. The series also delves deeper into the craft of witchcraft with fun and mishaps in Strega Nona's Magic Lessons and explores the power and responsibility that comes with a Strega Nona's Magic Ring.
Each story, from Strega Nona's Gift to the origin tale Strega Nona: Her Story, is infused with the warmth of Italian folklore and dePaola's signature illustrative style. They are more than just magical tales; they are bedtime stories that comfort, family reads that connect, and classic stories that endure. The enduring popularity of Strega Nona is a testament to Tomie dePaola's genius in creating a world that feels both fantastical and deeply human. To explore the entire series and these wonderful children's books, the main guide page is an excellent resource.