For generations, children and parents alike have been captivated by the warm, whimsical world of Strega Nona. Created by the legendary author and illustrator Tomie dePaola, this series of classic picture books blends Italian folklore with timeless lessons about kindness, responsibility, and the magic found in everyday life. At the heart of the stories is Strega Nona herself, the "Grandma Witch" of a small Italian village, whose magical pasta pot and gentle wisdom have made her an enduring icon in children's literature.
The Original Tale and Its Lasting Magic
The journey begins with the original book, simply titled Strega Nona. This Caldecott Honor-winning story introduces us to the kind witch and her helper, Big Anthony, who learns a hard lesson about following instructions when he tries to use her magical pasta pot without permission. The book's charm lies in its simple, repetitive storytelling and dePaola's distinctive, folk-art-inspired illustrations. It's a perfect bedtime story that has earned its place as a bestseller for good reason. For a deeper dive into this foundational tale, you can read a comprehensive Strega Nona review.
A Treasury of Adventures and Seasonal Delights
For those who can't get enough of Strega Nona's village, The Magical World of Strega Nona: a Treasury is an essential collection. This volume brings together multiple stories, offering hours of reading enjoyment and making it a wonderful story treasury for family libraries. The series also beautifully captures the spirit of the seasons. In Strega Nona's Harvest, readers are treated to an autumn tale celebrating the bounty of the garden and the importance of hard work, perfect for themes of fall harvest and gardening for kids.
The holiday season is particularly magical in Calabria. Merry Christmas, Strega Nona is a heartwarming Christmas picture book that embodies the joy and generosity of the season, making it a fantastic children's holiday book. Similarly, Strega Nona's Gift explores various holidays throughout the year, teaching children about different traditions. Discover why it's considered a holiday classic in the ultimate guide to Strega Nona's Gift.
More Magical Lessons and Origins
As the series grew, so did the adventures. In Strega Nona's Magic Lessons, Big Anthony's magical mishaps continue, providing both humor and subtle educational stories about consequences. For a look at where it all began, Strega Nona: Her Story delves into the beloved witch's own childhood and how she discovered her magical abilities. This origin story adds wonderful depth to the character, as explored in the blog about Strega Nona's origin.
Other titles continue to expand the universe with charm and wit. Strega Nona Takes a Vacation shows what happens when the witch leaves town, and Big Anthony is left in charge. Strega Nona's Magic Ring introduces a new magical artifact with delightful results. For younger readers just starting their journey, Strega Nona and Her Tomatoes is a perfect early reader book from the series.
The Enduring Legacy of Tomie dePaola's Creation
The world of Strega Nona is more than just a series of books; it's a gateway to magical tales that teach without preaching. Tomie dePaola's work, recognized with honors like the Caldecott Honor, remains a cornerstone of classic children's literature. The stories, rooted in an Italian folktale style, feel both ancient and fresh, dealing with universal themes of trust, community, and the small magics of cooking, gardening, and caring for one another.
Whether you are discovering these stories for the first time or sharing them with a new generation, the adventures of Strega Nona offer comfort, laughter, and wisdom. To explore the full scope of this delightful series, from the original book to all its sequels and treasuries, be sure to visit the complete Strega Nona guide. You can also find more insights in the complete guide to Tomie dePaola's beloved witch. These books are more than stories; they are heirlooms of the heart, perfect for gifting and creating lasting family memories.