Book 212: Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola

Strega Nona

by Tomie dePaola, Author and Illustrator

Available on Storytime Online by Barnes and Noble (click on the picture of Strega Nona)

Strega Nona is a classic children’s literature book, and is frequently used in elementary school classrooms. Tomie dePaola has written about 200 children’s books and he is very worthy of a class author and illustrator study.

Strega Nona is the town’s folk doctor and well known for her ability to help others in many ways. But, she is getting old, and puts up a help wanted sign as she needs some help. Big Anthony responds and agrees to all the work conditions such as to sweep the floor and never to touch the valuable pasta pot. At first things are going along well, although Big Anthony is not known for being a good listener. One day, he overhears Strega Nona sing to her pasta pot and watches it magically make her dinner. He keeps watching and thinks he catches what to do to turn off the pot, but he misses the three kisses Strega Nona blows after a little song. One day, Strega Nona is gone and Big Anthony cooks dinner for the town. He is a hero until . . . he is unable to stop the pot from making pasta. Pasta fills Strega Nona’s house, overflows out the windows, and fills the town. The people in the town try to put up barricades, but nothing works. Strega Nona arrives home and knows just what has happened. She stops the pot the correct way, and gives Big Anthony a punishment to fit his crime. She hands him a fork, and he must eat all that Pasta!

Children who hear this story delight in the fact a grown-up makes a mistake that is so big, and are amazed when pasta is all over the houses and roads. This story appeals to children in many ways such as the fun story line, beautiful pictures, interesting events, and even a humorous way to discuss the importance of following rules. Children also enjoy the other Strega Nona books in the Tomie dePaola collection, as well as all his books.

My FREE PDF (photos below): Strega Nona color page, sequencing work page and answer key PDF

Happy Reading,

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