Books with author Tomie Depaola

In this beloved classic picture book, Tomie dePaola retells and illustrates an Italian Christmas folk tale, breathing warmth and humanity into the character of the lonely Old Befana and her endless search for the Christ Child.Every morning and every afternoon, Old Befana sweeps with her broom. “Cranky old lady,” the children say. “She is always sweeping!” Sweep, sweep, sweep. But when a brilliant star glows in the eastern sky one night, and Old Befana encounters the glorious procession of three kings on their way to Bethlehem, her little world will never be the same.

When the fiercest giant in all of Ireland comes knocking at his door, what can peaceful Fin M'Coul do to escape him? An ALA Notable Book, by the bestselling author-illustrator of Strega Nona, Quiet, and many more. Fin M'Coul lives atop windy Knockmany Hill, and spends his days with the other giants of Ireland, moving huge stones to build a causeway to Scotland. But one morning, he hears a rumor that Cucullin, the strongest giant in the land, is coming to find and fight him. Fleeing home, Fin tells his wife of his worries. But clever Oonagh the giantess has a plan— with her wits and her skills and her magic charms, she sets out to trick Cucullin and save her husband. Full of humor and charm, Tomie dePaola's retelling of this classic fable is boldly illustrated, with detailed borders based on ancient Irish metalwork.

Tomie dePaola's glorious paintings are as luminous as the farolitos that light up on the Plaza in Santa Fe for the procession of Las Posadas, the tradition in which Mary and Joseph go from door to door seeking shelter at the inn on Christmas Eve.This year Sister Angie, who is always in charge of the clebration, has to stay home with the flu, and Lupe and Roberto, who are to play Mary and Joseph, get caught in a snowstorm. But a man and a woman no one knows arrive in time to take their place in the procession and then mysteriously disappear at the end before they can be thanked.That night we witness a Christian miracle, for when Sister Angie goes to the cathedral and kneels before the statue of Mary and Jospeh, wet footprints from the snow lead up to the statue.

Celebrate the joy in things large and small in this meditative board book, sized just right for small hands. "Today is today, and it is a gift," writes Tomie dePaola, best-selling author-illustrator of Quiet, in this simple ode to gratitude and mindfulness. Simple and sweet, Look and Be Grateful is a reminder to treat each day as the blessing it is. Now available in sturdy board-book format, this edition is ideal for easter baskets. Illustrated with Tomie's signature soft lines and gentle colors, a young boy awakens with the dawn, opens his eyes and looks closely at his world. He admires all that surrounds him, large and small, from the radiant sun to a tiny, but exquisite, ladybug.Gentle and lyrical, Look and Be Grateful is a simple expression of gratitude, ideal to share with the youngest readers and adults alike.

Tomie dePaola’s beloved and bestselling Strega Nona is back, with the perfect remedy for a houseguest who overstays her welcome.Angelina is so beautiful that all the young men in the village are chasing her, but the one she has eyes for doesn't know she exists. At his wits' end, her father sends her to his dear cousin--Strega Nona. Strega Nona, Big Anthony, and Bambolona are excited to have a houseguest, but they're in for a surprise. Angelina is a spoiled young lady used to being boss, and before they know it, Big Anthony is her new footman and Bambolona is her maid. Her nonstop demands have the whole household in a tizzy! It's up to Strega Nona to devise a plan that will make everyone happy--including two comically vain young lovers.

A Newbery Honor BookTomie's family starts building their new house at 26 Fairmount Avenue in 1938, just as a hurricane hits town, starting off a busy, crazy year. Tomie has many adventures all his own, including eating chocolate with his Nana Upstairs, only to find out--the hard way--that they have eaten chocolate laxative. He tries to skip kindergarten when he finds out he won't learn to read until first grade. "I'll be back next year," he says. When Tomie goes to see Snow White, he creates another sensation. Tomie dePaola's childhood memories are hilarious, and his charming illustrations are sure to please."A thoroughly entertaining and charming story."—School Library Journal"DePaola successfully evokes the voice of a precocious, inquisitive five-year-old everyone would want to befriend. Charming black-and-white illustrations animate the scenes and add a period flare, including a photo album-like assemblage of the characters' portraits at the book's start."—Publishers weekly

Float along with the Fog Maiden as she takes two children on an enchanted bedtime adventure in this classic from the bestselling author of Strega Nona, Quiet, and more-- now back in print!When everyone was fast asleep, two children were awakened by Token, the Fog Maiden's mysterious cat, and sent into the magical night. Gentle and lyrical, this forgotten classic bedtime story from the author of Quiet and Strega Nona is back to enchant a new generation of fans. Soft illustrations paired with an imaginative text take readers on a dreamlike journey-- sharing milk and honey with the trolls, watching the peacocks waltz, and attending a palace ball-- before tucking them safely back into bed.Cozy, quiet, and sure to delight, the Fog Maiden's sweet dream is made to be shared.

Tommy knows he wants to be an artist when he grows up. He can't wait to get to school and have real art lessons. When Tommy gets to school and finds out that the art lessons are full of "rules", he is surprised and dismayed. How the wise art teacher finds a way to give Tommy the freedom to create and stay within the "rules" makes a wonderfully perceptive picture book about growing up and keeping one's individuality.Tomie dePaola is the author and illustrator of many beloved books for children, including the Caldecott Honor Book Strega Nona. Fans of all ages will be pleased to hear that The Art Lesson is, in fact, based on the artist's own experiences growing up, and offers a welcome glimpse into his past. This bright picture book is as covered with drawings as the walls of Tommy's parents' and grandparents' houses, and sends an inspirational message to budding artists and individualists. Break out the crayons!