Tomie dePaola
What a treat to meet this legendary author/illustrator. He is so down to earth that our interview time just flew by. Our meeting took place shortly after all of us were feeling the effects of September 11. Tomie was supposed to be on an extensive tour with Kathleen Norris, but she did not fly in from her home in Hawaii. As a result Tomie and his PR support person were traveling by train on an abbreviated version of the original tour.
Forty-five years before our interview, Tomie had entered the Benedictine Monastery in Vermont. It was there that this tour started - to launch The Holy Twins. It all started when he read Kathleen Norris' book Cloister Walk. He got her address, wrote her a letter and asked if she would be interested in collaborating on a book. (The letter went out in 1997 and he got the text in January 2000 - the art was completed in the fall of 2000 and the book was published September 2001.) In The Holy Twins, Tomie managed to always have Scholastica and Benedict in all of the pictures. He worked hard to ensure that the pictures depicted the way they really would have lived.
Moving on from this new picture book, I asked Tomie how he started writing chapter books and he related that it was pretty much due to the letters that he received from kids. They needed to write book reports and he was one of their favorite authors, but they couldn't use his picture books for their assignments. His assistant Bob Hechtel encouraged him to try writing a longer book. It took him 2 1/2 years for the first, number four came out January 2002 and there will be one each year until Tomie in the book reaches August 15, 1945 when he turns 11 at the end of WWII. We have yet to meet his other sister Judy because she wasn't born until 1942.
If you have read 26 Fairmont Avenue or Here We All Are, you know that Tomie wanted to be an artist from the age of four. He received great support from his parents and teachers and was fortunate to attend Pratt Institute. After graduation, he took his portfolio to New York. He met Florence Alexander in 1963 and she became his agent. Within six weeks, she had his first book contract. To date, he has illustrated 205 books, of which he has written 90. It has been a wonderful 30 years. One of Tomie's latest interests is early or easy to read books. His new series features the Barker Twins. He is also at work on a Mexican Cinderella story that was inspired by his visits to Mexico City where he has a very good friend. Since this interview did take place so close to events at the World Trade Center, Tomie noted that one of his desires is to help children feel safe. Life is very different now than when he was growing up. He feels parents need to work hard to explain things to kids and to "guide their feet in the way of peace". He worries about giving away our freedoms and feels strongly that we must maintain our way of life.
Contributor: Marilyn Courtot
For more information visit Tomie dePaola at his own site.
Reviews
26 Fairmount Avenue
Tomie dePaola
In a real departure from his many other books, Tomie dePaola has written his first chapter book. It is a reminiscence about his childhood and the building of the family home at 26 Fairmount Avenue. The voice is that of a young boy, and the world is seen through his eyes. He tells about how he keeps his grandmothers and great grandmother straight and how much he enjoys spending time with them and other members of his extended family. The chapter relating his viewing of the Disney version of Snow White is a hoot. The day of the big move into the new house has been eagerly anticipated. Throughout the book, young Tomie shares his excitement about the construction as well as his parents angst. Black and white illustrations by the author are liberally sprinkled throughout the book. Kids who have moved up to chapter books will love this one. 1999, Putnam, $13.99. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-23246-X
26 Fairmount Avenue
Tomie dePaola
This year, well-known author and illustrator DePaola won a Newbery Honor award for his first-chapter book in which he recounts early adventures in his life. He writes about watching the hurricane of 1938 take over his neighborhood, mistaking laxatives for chocolates, and painting family portraits on the walls of his new home before the plasterers arrive. DePaola's style is brisk and readable, the anecdotes well chosen, and he promises more autobiographical chapter books will follow. 1999, Putnam, $13.99 and $5.99. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-399-23246-X
ISBN: 0-698-11864-2
Alice Nizzy Nazzy, The Witch of Santa Fe
Tony Johnston
Illustrated by Tomie DePaola
Parents warn their children to stay away from Alice Nizzy Nazzy, who lives in an adobe house with roadrunner feet and a prickly pear fence. Manuela stumbles upon the witch's house while searching for her lost sheep. Alice Nizzy Nazzy promptly pops her into a pot. Will Manuela escape before becoming the witch's lunch? The author and illustrator have skillfully moved the Baba Yaga story from Russia to the American Southwest. The illustrations cast the witch as ugly and unpleasant, but not too terrifying for youngsters. Manuela remains serene throughout. 1995, Putnam, $15.95 and $5.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-399-22788-1
ISBN: 0-698-11650-X
Alice Nizzy Nazzy: The Witch of Santa Fe
Tony Johnston
Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
Johnston transforms the famous Russian folk tale of Baba Yaga into a Southwest tale in Alice Nizzy Nazzy. Wise Manuela escapes being eaten by the witch with roadrunner legs who lives in an adobe house. Johnston, true to most original elements of the tale, playfully spices it up with references to foods, vegetation, habitat, and animals that characterize the Southwest. Illustrator dePaola uses a bold South Western palate and detailing that will make fans giggle. 1995, Putnam, $15.95 and $5.95. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-399-22788-1
ISBN: 0-698-11650-X
Andy: That's My Name
Tomie DePaola
Illustrations Tomie DePaola
Originally published in the '70s, this little paperback looks new again, with its soft mauves, lime greens and earth tones. Little Andy pulls a wagon loaded with the letters of his name past a crowd of older bored youngsters, who promptly commandeer it. Next comes lots of juggling of letters, which spell changing words for readers to decipher. Running commentary appears in balloons, but the focus is mostly on the changing words in oversize type. Andy tries in vain to intervene, but those bossy kids are focused and won't let him. He finally has enough, and takes his wagon and leaves, stating, "I may be little, but I'm very important!" These are words that will warm many an Andy and quite a few Andrea's hearts. Andy (and Tomie) live on! 1999 (orig. 1973), Aladdin/ Simon & Schuster, $13.40 and $5.99. Ages 3 to 7. Reviewer: Martha Shaw
ISBN: 0-613-15712-5
ISBN: 0-689-82697-4
The Art Lesson
Tomie dePaola
In this charming story, young Tommy wants to become an artist when he grows up. After learning about his weekly art lessons in first grade, he becomes very excited. This excitement turns to dismay when he realizes that he must follow strict rules in art class. After recognizing his special artistic talents, his teacher offers a compromise that allows Tommy to continue working toward his dream. DePaola's bright illustrations perfectly complement this inspirational tale. 1997, Putnam and Grossett Publishing Group, $15.95 and $5.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-399-21688-X
ISBN: 0-698-11572-4
The Baby Sister
Tomie DePaola
Tommy is really excited when his mother tells him that she is going to have a baby. Tommy wants a baby sister with a red ribbon in her hair. He even paints pictures for the baby's room. The big day is at hand, but Tommy's favorite aunt can't come and stay with him. Instead, he gets his Italian grandmother Nana Fall-River. She is a bit strict and old-fashioned, and Tommy really misses his mother. Finally the big day arrives when his mother returns from the hospital. Guess what? Nana Fall-River puts Tommy's baby sister in his arms and she does indeed have a red ribbon in her hair. Based on a true story of Tommy and his best friend, his sister Maureen. 1996, Putnam, $15.95. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-22908-6
Benny's Big Bubble
Jane O'Connor
Illustrations by Tomie dePaola
Benny blows a very big bubble and the wind, in turn, blows the bubble through town and back again. Beginning readers will enjoy following the bubble's progress and learning new words in this rebus picture book. Nearly every sentence contains at least one drawing in place of a word. Short sentences and lots of repetition combine with the picture clues to make the story quite manageable for beginning readers. As part of the "All Aboard Reading Picture Readers" series, the book contains flash cards with both pictures and words for every rebus drawing. The rebus format of the book creates an excellent vehicle for Tomie dePaola's whimsical watercolor illustrations. 1997, Grosset & Dunlap/Putman, $3.95. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Eileen Hanning
ISBN: 0-448-41303-5
Bill and Pete to the Rescue
Tomie dePaola
In this reprint of the 1998 edition, Tomie dePaola's inimitable young crocodile Bill and his bird friend Pete set off to rescue Bill's cousin, little Jane Allison, who has been kidnapped by the Bad Guy's Big Brother. They stow aboard a steamship and find themselves in Louisiana, where Antoine Pierre Alligator ("...call me Bubba") and his friends help them storm the gates of the Bad Guy's exotic animal show and rescue the endangered animals. Lo and behold, Bill finds that his father, believed to have been turned into a suitcase by the Bad Guy, has in fact been held prisoner by the Bad Guy's Brother and is very much alive. With the help of the Rich Lady (who has fallen for Pete and luxuriously caged him for a time), all the animals are sent home, where they live "happily ever after." DePaola plays with his signature style, depicting a roaring 20's world in oranges, pinks and greens and emphasizing details, such as the oversized lock on Bill's papa's cage. The result is a whimsical tale that appeals to all who love a happy ending. 2001 (orig. 1978), Puffin, $15.99 and $5.99. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Cherri Jones
ISBN: 0-399-23208-7
ISBN: 0-698-11884-7
Boss for a Day
Tomie DePaola
The Barker twins are a new team for author/illustrator DePaola. Moffat (aka Moffie) is the oldest by a whole ten minutes - she has a brother named Morgan (aka Morgie). Moffie really does boss her brother around. She tells him what to wear, what to read, and what game they are going to play. Even when Moffie decides that Morgie is going to be the boss for a day - she is still really running the show. A leopard can't change its spots, and Moffie can't stop being a boss. DePaola gets plenty of humor into the scenes and faces of his characters. Part of the "All Aboard Reading" series level 1 - preschool through first grade. 2001, Grosset & Dunlap, Ages 4 to 6, $13.89. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-448-42618-8
Days of the Blackbird
Tomie dePaola
In northern Italy, the "days of the blackbird" are considered the three coldest days of the winter. The author provides a fanciful tale to explain the origin of this term. A great duke falls ill, and his adoring daughter does all she can to keep the birds singing outside his window to cheer him. As winter deepens, the birds fly off, except one beautiful white dove. To keep warm, the dove roosts in the chimney and the soot on her feathers changes her appearance. The layout is pleasing, with text and colorful illustrations set in panels resembling the windows in the Duke's palace. 1997, Putnam, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-399-22929-9
The Eagle and the Rainbow: Timeless Tales from Mexico
Antonio Hernádez Madrigal
Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
Five legends from some of the principle Native American tribes in Mexico are represented in this small but enjoyable collection. The tales tell of great deeds, bravery, perseverance, and respect for the earth and its inhabitants. The lessons presented are an integral part of the story and not heavy handed. At the end of each story, the author provides a brief write-up about the tribe that is the source of the tale (Huichol, Tarahumara, Maya, Tarascan, and Aztec). There also is a glossary to help with pronunciation and definitions of unfamiliar names and words. The primitive art style of dePaola fits nicely with the stories. 1997, Fulcrum, $15.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 1-55591-317-2
Erandi's Braids
Antonio Hernandez Madrigal
Illustrations by Tomie DePaola
A Tarascan Indian fishing village in the state of Michoacan, Mexico, during the 1940s is the setting for this touching picture book. Young Erandi and her mother are poor and desperately need a new fishing net. They would also both love for Erandi to have a new dress and a doll for her birthday. When Mama's efforts to fulfill these goals by selling her hair fail, Erandi bravely finds a bittersweet solution by selling her longer braids instead. DePaola's bright, folk art illustrations reflect the Mexican setting and the caring dignity of Erandi and her mother very well. A glossary of Spanish words and an author's note are included. 1999, Putnam, $15.99. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-399-23212-5
Four Scary Stories
Tony Johnston
Illustrated by Tomie de Paola
One night an imp, a goblin and a scalawag get together and tell scary stories. The imp goes first and tells a tale of being terrified of a boy. When the boy appeared, he jumped out of a window and ran away. The goblin's story was about magic melons that glowed. The goblin tried to steal the melons. But the owner was a boy who was hiding and saw the goblin making off with his melons. He chased the goblin and got his melons back. The scalawag's tale involved a ghost that attacked him. But the ghost belonged to a boy, who came and got him. The ghost got washed and hung up to dry. The boy threatened to wash the scalawag, but that made him disappear. But lo and behold, a boy has been listening to their stories and even has one of his own to add. In the boy's story an imp, a goblin and a scalawag frighten him. Everyone gets a big laugh about this and they all become good friends. 1997 (orig. 1978), Paperstar/Putnam, Ages 4 to 8, $5.95 and $7.95. Reviewer: Kristin Harris
ISBN: 0-698-11579-1
ISBN: 0-399-20614-0
Four Scary Stories
Tony Johnston
Illustrated by Tomie de Paola
Three "things"-an imp, a goblin and a scalawag-compete for the chance to spin the scariest yarns imaginable. These horror tales include coming face to face with the most terrifying creature of all: a human boy! What could be worse? De Paola's artistic simplicity is universally pleasing; here he uses shadows and contrast to create a bit of mystery. 1997, PaperStar Books, Ages 5 to 8, $5.95 and $7.95. Reviewer: Deborah Zink Roffino
ISBN: 0-698-11579-1
ISBN: 0-399-20614-0
Here We All Are
Tomie DePaola
Here's the second installment of the well-known author's childhood when iceboxes and radios were important and teachers "corrected" artwork or Americanized the spelling of names. A move to the new house also includes the arrival of a baby sister. Charming and low-key, this would make a perfect family read-aloud, especially with a grandparent who remembers this era. 2000, Putnam, Ages 7 to 10, $13.99. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-399-23496-9
Hide and Seek All Week
Tomie DePaola
The Barker twins are a new team for author/illustrator DePaola. Moffat (aka Moffie) is the oldest by a whole ten minutes - she has a brother named Morgan (aka Morgie). In this episode, the kids are learning to write their names. After working so hard in kindergarten, Ms. Shepard tells the kids it is time for recess. Morgie wants to play hide-and-seek. But they can't decide who should be "it", or what the rules will be. Pretty soon, recess was over and no one played the game. The same scenario with several variations continues on Tuesday and Wednesday. Since it rained on Thursday, all the kids went to the gym for recess and played duck-duck-goose. On Friday, the kids still didn't have the rules worked out and so the whole fiasco carries over to the next week. Kids will chuckle - parents may be reminded of the all-too-real scenes of a typical bureaucratic workplace. 2001, Grosset & Dunlap, Ages 4 to 6, $13.89. Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-448-42617-X
The Holy Twins
Kathleen Norris
Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
As Tomie told me in our interview, he really wanted to have Kathleen Norris write the text for this book. Their collaboration is a true delight. Norris tells the fascinating and inspiring story of the twins Benedict and Scholastica who were best friends as children and who eventually found their own paths to God. Benedict as part of a noble family was sent to Rome to study while Scholastica went to a monastery to learn to read and write. Benedict was troubled by the way slaves were treated and also by the rivalry and power struggles that he encountered in Rome. He did not wish to fulfill his family's desire to become a well-paid civil official. Instead Benedict became a hermit, living in a cave and devoting his life to prayer. He became well known as a holy man. Several times other monks and priests tried to get rid of him with poisoned bread and wine, but each time he was saved. He finally founded a monastery at Monte Cassino. Benedict and his sister met annually to exchange views and keep up with their respective lives. They died fairly close in time and were buried in the same tomb. Throughout the story Tomie shows scenes from their parallel lives. It is two stories intertwined in one book. The message of sibling devotion and deeply held religious beliefs shines through. The concluding pages contain The Amazing Rule of St. Benedict - written over 1500 years ago and entirely applicable to today. There is also a short bibliography for those who wish to learn more. 2001, Putnam, Ages 6 up, $16.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-23424-1
I Love You, Sun I Love You, Moon
Karen Pandell
Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
Children come into the world loving it, and parents can reinforce that love from an early age. This book is a simple affirmation of a child's love. Its text can be easily extended to include many other things children have come to love and the end has the perfection of the simply stated belief system as it concludes: "I love you, Earth. And you love me." The illustrations provide a vibrant picture of a child enjoying life. 1994, Putnam, $5.95. Ages 1 to 3. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-399-22628-1
Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato: An Irish Folktale
Tomie dePaola
Jamie O'Rourke, the laziest man in all of Ireland, tries to avoid work at all costs. When his wife Eileen hurts her back and can no longer work, Jamie decides to visit his church. During his walk, he captures a leprechaun and demands his pot of gold. Instead of giving the Irish man his gold, the tiny green-clad fellow gives Jamie a potato seed. Upon returning home, Jamie plants and waters the magic seed, which becomes the biggest "pratie" he or any of the villagers has ever seen. In his effort to uproot the vegetable, Jamie and his fellow villagers get the potato stuck in the middle of the road. When he is blamed for the mishap, Jamie invites everyone to take pieces of the potato home with them. After a winter of nothing but potatoes, the villagers promise to give Jamie and his wife plenty of food each day in return for not ever planting another magic potato seed again. 1992, Putnam, $15.95 and $5.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-399-22257-X
ISBN: 0-698-11603-8
Jamie O'Rourke and the Pooka
Tomie DePaola
Jamie, the laziest man in all of Ireland, is nevertheless intent about keeping the cottage clean until his wife returns home from visiting her sister. When his three cronies learn that Jamie is alone, they go to keep him company. What a time they have! And what a mess they make. Overwhelmed by the thought of cleaning, Jamie heads to bed only to be awakened by a donkey that cleans the entire house. Jamie has a good deal going with this pooka, or animal spirit, until it outwits him. DePaola's character of Jamie O'Rourke returns in this story patterned on an old Irish tale. His familiar illustration style takes on a cartoon look for this charming and whimsical story. There is a lilt to the prose that makes this a fun read- aloud. DePaola gets us to feel a bit of pity for the rascally Jamie, the laziest man in all of Ireland. 2000, G.P. Putnam's Sons, $16.99. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-399-23467-5
The Knight and the Dragon
Tomie DePaola
The young, inexperienced knight and the bumbling, insecure dragon decide to meet on the battle field. The outcome is not a pretty sight, so the intelligent castle librarian comes to the rescue and shows them how they can use their special talents together for good. The comic book style layout is perfect for this almost wordless picture book. DePaola's illustrations are full of action and slapstick humor to match the story. 1998 (orig. 1980), Putnam & Grosset, $5.99 and $8.95. Ages 3 to 7. Reviewer: Sally J. K. Davies
ISBN: 0-698-11623-2
The Legend of the Bluebonnet: An Old Tale of Texas
Tomie dePaola
Tomie dePaola provides a charming retelling of the Native American legend about the origin of Texas' state flower, the bluebonnet. In this tale, the Comanche People experience drought and famine as a result of their selfish acts against the Earth. In order to restore life to the Earth, they must make a burnt offering of their most valued possession. One night after everyone is in bed, a young girl named "She-Who-Is-Alone" burns her most precious possession, a warrior doll, and scatters the ashes to the North, South, East, and West. When she awakens from her nightly sleep, the young Indian girl finds herself surrounded by beautiful blue flowers and a lush green Earth. As the People celebrate, the rains return and they praise the sacrifice of the young girl, whose name becomes "One-Who-Dearly-Loved-Her-People." 1993, Putnam, $16.95 and $5.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-399-20937-9
ISBN: 0-698-11359-4
The Legend of the Poinsettia
Tomie dePaola
Tomie dePaola masterfully retells the Mexican legend of how the poinsettia came to be. When Lucida's mother becomes ill and is unable to finish weaving a blanket for the town's nativity, Lucida tries to finish it herself. After she ruins the blanket beyond repair and is ashamed to enter the church empty-handed, Lucida hides from the town's festive Christmas Eve procession. While she is hiding, a mysterious old woman comes out of the shadows and encourages her to join her family in church and offer whatever she can give to Baby Jesus. After gathering an armful of weeds, Lucinda enters the church and places them in the manger, where they transform into the bright red star of the poinsettia. On their way home after midnight mass, the villagers find the countryside filled with these beautiful red stars. 1994, Putnam, $15.95 and $5.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-399-21692-8
ISBN: 0-698-11567-8
Make Your Own Christmas Cards
Tomie dePaola
In this craft book, kids will find 32 cards that they can punch out and decorate with 50 jewel stickers that are provided. The cards are trademark dePaola, with illustrations that feature secular and religious themes. All have holiday greetings printed on the reverse. For those who may wish to mail the cards, the back page of the book contains instructions for creating envelopes. The supplies needed include paper, ruler, pencil, glue and tape. There are even suggestions for making fancier envelopes. A nice, quiet activity for kids who have the patience and interest in making things. 1998, Price Stern Sloan, $8.99. Ages 3 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8431-7444-7
Mary: The Mother of Jesus
Tomie DePaola
In his highly recognizable style, DePaola has taken passages from the Bible relating to Mary and expanded them to provide the settings and background for describing the events in her life. His pictures, in subdued colors on cream pages, are like those of some stained glass windows, but without the jewel tones. The story of Mary is intertwined with that of her son Jesus Christ, and that is also the case in this book. 1995, Holiday, $16.95. Ages All. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8234-1018-8
Meet the Barkers: Morgan and Moffat Go to School
Tomie dePaola
We meet the charming, anthropomorphic Welsh terrier twins as they go to school for the first time. At first, Moffie is the bossy eager achiever, while Morgie is busy making friends, but both soon settle into the routine, ending by loving school. Simply told but filled with realistic school activities, this tale introduces a pair that readers will probably look forward to meeting again. The artist's style is unmistakably his own--heavy outlines, tints of color that stay within the lines, almost no perspective, lots of small scenes, only the most basic of contextual details. In these settings he loads emotions familiar to his audience, from impatience and jealousy to pride in accomplishments. 2001, G. P. Putnam's Sons, $13.99. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-399-23708-9
Mice Squeak, We Speak
Arnold L. Shapiro
Tomie dePaola
In this very simple poem, the sounds that animals make are named and compared to the sounds that children make (speak, say, talk). The cast of three multicultual kids has the dePaola look and is genuinely appealing. The animals, each of which is featured on its own bordered page, are shown making their clucks, quacks, or neighs. This is a fine book for very young kids; it introduces them to animals and the sounds they make, while also making the point that children (humans) speak. 1997, Putnam, $13.95. Ages 2 to 5. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-23202-8
The Mountains of Quilt
Nancy Willard
Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
This fanciful account that takes place the Midwest is sketched in the softest pastels with Tomie dePaola's childlike wit. Grandmother is sewing another quilt but the last patch is supplied by some scatter-brained magicians. Now the magic is in the quilt. Loads of imagination in a whimsical fairy tale. 1987, Harcourt Brace, $12.95 and $6.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Deborah Zink Roffino
ISBN: 0-15-256010-6
ISBN: 0-15-201480-2
Nana Upstairs & Nana Downstairs
Tomie dePaola
As a young boy, Tomie loved to visit his grandmother and great-grandmother. They lived in the same house and he called them Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairs. During his Sunday visits with his great-grandmother, he would eat mint candy and listen to her stories about the "Little People." When she napped so did he, and to him she was a beautiful and wonderful woman. Then she died, but for Tomie, she would always live in his memories. The same was true of his grandmother who died many years later when Tomie was grown up. It is a heartwarming but sad story about love among the generations and facing the reality that death is part of the cycle of life. It is a gentle approach that can help children and encourage them upon the loss of a relative to hold and cherish those memories of wonderful times together. 1998 (orig. 1973), Putnam, $15.99. Ages 4 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-23108-0
The Night of Las Posadas
Tomie DePaola
Among the holiday books this year, DePaola's stands out. His love of Christmas is evident in the numerous books he has created to celebrate the holiday (The Christmas Pageant, The Clown of God, and The Legend of the Poinsettia) to name a few. DePaola has set his latest story in Santa Fe where the story of Mary and Joseph's search to find a resting place is reenacted. Sister Angie is delighted that her nice Lupe and Lupe's husband will be the reenactors. She helps them with costumes and tries to settle their nerves by taking them to see the carving of Mary and Joseph at the church. When the night of Los Posadas arrives, it begins to snow. Lupe and Robert's truck gets stuck in the snow and the priest and others in town are anxiously awaiting the ceremony. Suddenly friends of Sister Angie arrive ready for the reenactment. All is well, but who was that couple who took the place of Lupe and Roberto? The wonderful story of faith and love is depicted in DePaola's simple but expressive illustrations. A story that all families will enjoy. 1999, Putnam, $15.99. Ages 4 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-23400-4
Patrick, Patron Saint of Ireland
Tomie dePaola
St. Patrick was the scion of a noble Roman family; first kidnapped and enslaved by, later champion of the Emerald Isle. That duel allegiance gives dePoala (half Irish, half Italian) a romantic connection to the famous Bishop of Ireland. He demonstrates his special attachment with all the glory of his distinctive and popular stylized paintings, lovingly illustrating the adventures in the life of the great saint. Well researched, this bright, engaging picture book for younger children first tells the history and then lists the legends that have grown over the centuries. 1992, Holiday House, $15.95 and $6.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Deborah Zink Roffino
ISBN: 0-8234-0924-4
ISBN: 0-7175-0414-X
The Popcorn Book
Tomie dePaola
A fanciful book of popcorn facts and legends. The book ends with a pop! Pop! POP! And the unwitting creation of a popcorn blizzard. 1978, Holiday House, $15.95 and $6.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 0-8234-0314-9
ISBN: 0-8234-0533-8
The Quilt Story
Tony Johnston
Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
Any child with a special blanket will enjoy this story about a little pioneer girl who takes her quilt, stitched in a design of falling stars, across the country to a new home. In this home, in a different era, the quilt is found by another little girl and comforts this girl as she journeys to a new home - not by covered wagon, but by moving van. Illustrator dePaola's primary colors and stylized figures capture well the folklife quality of the story. 1996, Putnam, $5.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 0-698-11368-3
Shh! We're Writing the Constitution
Jean Fritz
Pictures by Tomie dePaola
In her conversational and entertaining style, Fritz takes readers behind the scenes to learn what it was like during the Constitutional Convention of 1787. The representatives came together in Philadelphia and suffered the heat and misery of working in a closed up room listening to other delegates drone on for hours, and constantly cajoling colleagues and soothing the concerns and fears of those who were against a national or federal government. Finally thanks to the efforts of many, a Constitution was drafted and ratified by nine states forming the United States of America. A copy of the Constitution and those who signed it are included as well as additional notes supporting the text. A really delightful way to learn American history. 1998 (orig. 1987), Putnam, $5.99, $12.95 and $4.95. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-698-11624-0
ISBN: 0-399-21403-8
ISBN: 0-399-21404-6
Shh! We're Writing the Constitution: A Teacher's Guide and CD-ROM
Jean Fritz
Illustrations by Tomie DePaola
Teaching a social studies unit about the Constitution comes alive for children through the wit and humor of Jean Fritz. Now with the CD- ROM version and a teacher's guide, the lessons sizzle! From the main menu, a learning cube, the researcher can explore nine chapters by viewing a video, reading the text, and playing games. In the "Spot it Game," the player tries to identify the bogus sentences while racing against a specific time allotment. The clock can be turned off if necessary, thus allowing some students to play at their own pace. With a special cable, the computer information can be displayed on a television screen allowing this CD-ROM to be used as a whole class activity. A notebook of assignments for each lesson, puzzles, and challenges are included in the teacher's guide. The various activities matched the learning styles of different kids. Illustrations, animations, and colorful graphics engaged a class of twelve-year-olds. As an educator, I certainly hope to see other subjects presented in this format. The coupling of learning and technology is truly exciting! 1999, Scholastic Curriculum Connections, $??. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: Laura Hummel
ISBN: 0-439-09221-3
Strega Nona
Tomie de Paola
This is an animated version of the 1970s children's classic, Strega Nona, a Sorcerer's Apprentice-like story in which an entire town becomes involved in the consequences of magic poorly understood and misapplied. The animations are true to the original illustrations, with some very nice visualization of actions, like the magic of the pasta pot, which fit nicely with the feel of the original storybook. The music and sound effects also work well. This version is in Italian, but still, there is no doubt about what is happening even for viewers who can't understand the words. 2000 (orig.1975), Weston Woods/Scholastic/Simon & Schuster, Ages 4 to 8, $60.00. Reviewer: Sally Heldrich
ISBN: 0-78820-226-X
Strega Nona
Tomie dePaola
For the last two years, publishers have been giving a number of picture books a new treatment in board book form. The Caldecott Honor book, Strega Nona, has just been given the treatment. The layout and artwork look great, but the story is complex and long for the board book crowd. It will work with those who have a longer attention span but they may not get the humor. 1997 (orig. 1975), Little Simon, Ages 4 to 6, $13.95, $7.99, and $6.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-671-66283-X
ISBN: 0-689-81764-9
ISBN: 0-671-66606-1
Strega Nona Meets Her Match
Tomie dePaola
Familiar characters are a sure success and 1993 has brought us new books that focus on characters much beloved by children. Tomie dePaola adds to his Italian grandmother witch stories with Strega Nona Meets Her Match when sister witch, Strega Amelia begins a technologically advanced and very competitive business. 1993, Putnam, $15.95 and $5.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-399-22421-1
ISBN: 0-698-11411-6
Strega Nona: Her Story
Tomie dePaola
If you have enjoyed the delightful other stories about Strega Nona, then this supposed biography is not to be missed. She tells all. It starts with the day she was born and how her grandmother Concetta selected her name and declared that she would become a strega. She grows up and has a best friend, Amelia and together they learn from grandmother. However, Amelia heads off to the Academy for Stregas while Nona stays to study and learn more from her grandmother and finally takes over the strega business. One day recognizing that she is growing older, she puts up a sign seeking an assistant. If you have read the other books, the end will not be a surprise, but it will bring a smile. As always the illustrations by dePaola are a real treat. 1996, Putnam, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-22818-7
Strega Nona Takes a Vacation
Tomie dePaola
For years, Strega Nona has worked tirelessly in her little village in Calabria to help villagers with their headaches, toothaches and other ills. When Grandma Concetta appears in a dream to tell her that it's time for a vacation, Strega Nona heads for the seashore. But, as Strega Nona fans know, it can be dangerous to leave her assistants Big Anthony and Bambolona unsupervised. It can also be hilarious. This tale will not disappoint faithful Strega Nona followers. The delightful illustrations perfectly express the feelings of this trio as they work through another episode in the Strega Nona saga. Adults and children alike are certain to smile and chuckle as they mull over this latest chapter in the life of dePaola's beloved Strega Nona. 2000, G. P. Putnam's Sons/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, $16.99. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati
ISBN: 0-399-23562-0
The Tale of Rabbit and Coyote
Tony Johnston
Illustrations by Tomie dePaola
This humorous folktale from Oaxaca, Mexico describes how Rabbit uses naughty deceptions and hijinks to outwit Coyote. In the story, Rabbit tricks Coyote into hanging upside down at the farmer's house and whacking a wasps nest with a stick. After the Rabbit causes so much trouble, he climbs to the moon for safety. Furious with the Rabbit's antics, the Coyote spends his nights howling at the moon. Simple illustrations featuring vibrant colors from the Southwest accompany this hilarious tale of trickery and deceit. 1994, Putnam, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-399-22258-8
The Tale of Rabbit and Coyote
Tony Johnston
Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
This tale, from Oaxaca, Mexico will be hauntingly familiar to those acquainted with the B'rer Rabbit stories. Once again, the trickster is the rabbit and coyote is his foil. Poor coyote becomes so frustrated that he begins howling at the moon--in Mexico, it is a rabbit in the moon, not the man in the moon. The illustrations have a Southwest flair, and have some Spanish phrases within (there is a glossary at the back). 1994, Putnam, $15.95. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: Dr. Hans von Marensdorff
ISBN: 0-399-22258-8
Tomie dePaola's Mother Goose
Iona Opie and Peter Opie
Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
Working from classic verses, this extraordinarily complete collection is filled with fresh life by dePaola's brilliant full color paintings. The over 200 rhymes include such favorites as "Little Bo Peep," "Humpty Dumpty," "Simple Simon," "Old King Cole" and a host of others. Tomie dePaola is a Caldecott honor award artist. 1985, Putnam, $24.95. Ages 2 to 6. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-399-21258-2
Tomie dePaola's Mother Goose
Tomie dePaola
The "First Mother" of reading is Mother Goose. One of the most important books in a baby's collection is a volume of Mother Goose. I've heard that many of the rhythms and rhymes echo a mother's heartbeat. That would explain why these verses can soothe a seemingly inconsolable infant into sleep, or bring smiles and giggles to a bored baby. What's more, they have endured for centuries. Choosing a particular volume depends on personal taste. Tomie dePaola, who has done a superb Mother Goose collection, also has a small board book collection entitled Tomie's Little Mother Goose. 1985, Putnam, $24.95. Ages 2 to 5. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-399-21258-2
Tony's Bread: An Italian Folktale
Tomie dePaola
Tony, the baker, dreams that one day he will become the most famous baker in all of Northern Italy and his daughter Serafina dreams that she will find a suitable husband. Angelo, a wealthy nobleman from Milano, comes to town and makes both of their dreams come true. With the help of three gossiping aunties, Zia Clotilda, Zia Caterina, and Zia Clorinda, Angelo devises a plan that helps Tony create panettone, the most delicious bread in Italy. After Tony becomes famous for his loaves of bread baked in flowerpots, he and Serafina move to Milano, where she marries Angelo and the three live happily ever after. Bravo to dePaola for creating this humorous and wonderfully illustrated original Italian folktale! 1989, Putnam, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-399-21693-6
Updated 2002
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