Most Popular Books by Tomie dePaola

Several kids looking for something to do make words from the letters in little Andy''s name.

From Humpty Dumpty and Georgie Porgie to Little Miss Muffet and the old woman who lived in a shoe, children will love reading and laughing along with all of their favorite characters. The accessible trim and beautiful illustrations by Tomie dePaola make this book the perfect addition to any child''s library.

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!

Since its original publication in 1985, Tomie dePaola’s Mother Goose has become a staple on children’s bookshelves everywhere, and features over two hundred Mother Goose rhymes charmingly illustrated by one of today’s most beloved artists. This special anniversary edition includes a framable print with brand-new art and an author’s note from Tomie, and is sure to continue as a family favorite for generations to come.

Fun facts and holiday cheer from the creator of Strega Nona and Quiet. While picking out their Christmas tree, a couple of curious kids start to wonder where Christmas trees came from. Who invented the first one? How did they become so popular? And how have they changed over the years? Celebrated children''s author Tomie dePaola is here to tell you everything you ever wanted to know about Christmas trees--and everything you never even thought to wonder about. With bright illustrations and kid-friendly text, Tomie dePaola''s Christmas Tree Book is full of facts, history, and legends. Instructions on making your own Christmas tree ornament are included!

In Mexico, the poinsettia is called flor de la Nochebuenao flower of the Holy Night. At Christmastime, the flower blooms and flourishes, the quite exquisite red stars lighting up the countryside. This Mexican legend tells how the poinsettia came to be, through a little girl''s unselfish gift to the Christ Child. Beloved Newbery honor-winning author and Caldecott honor-winning illustrator Tomie dePaola has embraced the legend using his own special feeling for Christmas. His glorious paintings capture not only the brilliant colors of Mexico and its art, but also the excitement of the children preparing for Christmas and the hope of Lucida, who comes to see what makes a gift truly beautiful.

Beautifully illustrated Gospel stories from Tomie dePaola, winner of a Newbery Honor, a Regina Medal, and many other awards. An illustrated retelling of seventeen parables used by Jesus Christ in his teachings. Includes “The Good Samaritan,“ “The Lost Sheep,” “The Laborers in the Vineyard,” and “The Prodigal Son.” This is a fixed-format ebook, which preserves the design and layout of the original print book.

The year 1940 is a very big year for Tomie--it''s the start of first grade, his first birthday, and the family''s first holiday season in the new house at 26 Fairmount Avenue. Illustrations.

Thick clusters of vivid blue flowers, which resemble old-fashioned sunbonnets, cover the Texas hills in the springtime every year. These lovely wild flowers, known by the name of bluebonnet, are the state flower of Texas. This favorite legend based on Comanche Indian lore, tells the story of how the bluebonnet came to be. Tomie dePaola''s powerful retelling and his magnificent full-color paintings perfectly capture the Comanche People, the Texas hills, and the spirit of She-Who-Is-Alone, a little girl who made a sacrifice to save her tribe.

Celebrate the holiday with this charming book from the legendary Tomie dePaola. This board book is the perfect size for little hands, and makes a great addition to any Easter basket. The importance of family and sharing are beautifully shown in this board book all about Easter celebrations. Tomie dePaola’s bright illustrations and easy-to-follow text explain the traditions associated with this special holiday.

This new edition of the joyful celebration of Saint Francis of Assisi features a contemporary design and beloved Tomie dePaola’s signature art refreshed to its original brilliance and vivacity. Come and bless the Lord, Because the Lord loves you. Francis is so full of God’s love that he wants to sing His praises. His glorious singing inspires birds of every color, and even the sun and moon, to join him in joyful celebration. Tomie dePaola’s simple text and vibrant, fully refreshed illustrations bring the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi to life for even the youngest children.

Tomie keeps hearing the phrase, ?For the duration.? Gas is being rationed ?for the duration.? The Fourth of July fireworks will be the last show ?for the duration.? So many things will be different as long as the war goes on, but much of Tomie?s life goes on as usual. He?s excited about starring in a dance recital, taking the bus around town all by himself, and having his first Communion. But Tomie is also still getting over his cousin?s death in the war, and he has to say good-bye to his uncle as he ships off to basic training. And then he has a run-in with some bullies and his brother doesn?t even help him out. Luckily, Tomie knows there are a lot of people he can count on for the duration.

In this magically illustrated picture book by Tomie dePaola, the Fog Maiden enchants the night for two small children In this poetic fantasy, two small children are awakened by Token, the Fog Maiden’s mysterious cat, and sent into the enchanted night. In the course of their adventure, they meet an elf horse, share warm milk and honey with trolls, and attend an extravagant ball at the palace, where they watch a play with the king and queen. As night draws to a close, the Fog Maiden floats them back to their beds and kisses them asleep. The Fog Maiden’s dream world is enhanced by exquisite full-color illustrations that will stir young imaginations. This fixed-layout ebook, which preserves the design and layout of the original print book, features read-along narration by the author.

An ALA Notable Children’s Book Fin’s wife saves him from the most feared giant in Ireland. This fixed-layout ebook, which preserves the design and layout of the original print book, features read-along narration by the author.

These laugh-out-loud stories from New Hampshire and Vermont are set during the four seasons of the year. The storyteller in his appealing dialect tells little-known tales, among them ?Mothah Skunk? and the night she had to move out with her kits because Sherman Curtis smelled so bad; the escapades of Big Gertie Benson, the lumberjacks? cook and a cousin of the Bunyans in the Midwest; and George Petty, who delivered the mail even during mud season by standing on the back of his horse with only his head sticking out. Interspersed throughout are comic style episodes as an unsuspecting tourist tries to get information from the ?locals.? A delightful preface about living in New Hampshire for the past thirty-five years and visiting the North Country since he was a boy, explains why Tomie dePaola has perfect pitch for the dialect and a genuine appreciation for these unforgettable characters and their understated humor. Perfect for reading aloud to the family or in the classroom with a glossary to help with the pronunciations, these tales are sure to be a hit with Tomie?s fans, young and old.

A perfect first Christmas book This inventive and fresh Nativity story is told from a bird''s-eye view. On the morning of the first Christmas, the birds of Bethlehem gather in the fields--not only to eat but to share the exciting news. People from all over have descended on Bethlehem and an angel has appeared in the night sky. Something extraordinary is coming! The birds agree that they must find this wondrous thing, and off they fly to the stable where a child has been born. In simple language and dazzling pictures, beloved author-illustrator Tomie dePaola shares the awe and anticipation of the first Christmas. His cast of brightly colored, curious birds will appeal to young children, making this a perfect introduction to the story of Christmas.

When Jamie O''Rourke''s wife leaves him alone for a week, it''s up to Jamie to do the housework. But Jamie isn''t just the laziest man in Ireland, he''s also the messiest! When a magical pooka arrives unexpectedly and starts to do the dishes and sweep the house, Jamie thinks that maybe he''s the luckiest man in Ireland as well. But will Jamie''s good fortune-and his pooka''s housekeeping-last? Young readers will be giggling through Tomie dePaola''s delightfully funny sequel to Jamie O''Rourke and the Big Potato. "DePaola''s jaunty storytelling pace and his snappy Irish phrases give this tale extra sparkle." Publishers Weekly, starred review

From New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Tomie dePaola comes an adorable springtime story about fifteen bunnies who are planting a garden! Spring is here! That means it’s time for the Hopkins family to plant their beautiful gardens. But when fifteen eager rabbits try to dig, rake, plant, and water at the same time, will any work get done? From award-winning author Tomie dePaola comes a charming story about what happens when you have too many bunnies, perfectly suited in a gifty board book.

An illustrated collection of Mother Goose nursery rhymes, including some well-known and some less familiar ones.

An informative and funny book on every kind of cat, from Abyssinian to alley cat, from the bestselling author of Strega Nona, Quiet, and many more. FREE KITTENS INSIDE, reads the sign outside Granny Twinkle''s house. But kittens aren''t the only thing Mrs. Twinkle has to offer. When Patrick goes inside, he asks questions and learns everything there is to know about cats-- the many different types and breeds, their place in history, and how to take care of a kitten of his very own. Colorful and funny, this picture book is a perfect introduction for kids interested in cats, full of facts and trivia. Includes instructions on making your own cat toys, information on the care and feeding of cats and kittens, and a list of useful resources-- all presented with Tomie dePaola''s signature humor and fun illustrations.

Sam and Molly visit the bubble factory, and make wish bubbles.

A bumbling knight meets a clumsy dragon in a duel with an ending you''ll never forget! What happens when a sheepish knight and a not-so-fierce dragon fight for the very first time? Well, it''s no ordinary battle since the knight has to go to the castle library to learn about dragon-fighting and the dragon must dig through his ancestor''s things to find out how to fight a knight! When they decide they''re finally ready, their energetic faceoff is sure to elicit giggles, uh-ohs, and very satisfied cries of "Perfect!" at the heartening conclusion. "Spontaneity of line and feeling are backed by zesty colors and a jovial, tongue-in-cheek tone to which children can relate—a top springtime choice." —Booklist "There''s a swirl of good-humored life to the book." —The New York Times Book Review

In this elegant tale, Tomie dePaola imagines how the Days of the Blackbird in northern Italy came to be. Gemma and her father, the Duke of Gennaro, live in a house with a courtyard that fills with birds of all colors through the spring and summer. When the Duke falls ill at the end of summer, Gemma begs the birds to stay to raise his spirits with their song. However, as snow and fierce winds begin to swirl down on the village, the birds must fly south to stay warm, and eventually only one loyal bird remains.

Presents a variety of facts about popcorn and includes two recipes. Copyright © Libri GmbH. All rights reserved.

The love between many generations shines brightly in this story grandparents, parents, and grandchildren will treasure. Tommy is four years old, and he loves visiting the home of his grandmother, Nana Downstairs, and his great-grandmother, Nana Upstairs. But one day Tommy''s mother tells him Nana Upstairs won''t be there anymore, and Tommy must struggle with saying good-bye to someone he loves. Updated with new, full-color illustrations, this classic story will continue to win the hearts of readers of all ages. "Children will want to hear this again and again." –School Library Journal, starred review "A quietly touching story that depicts loving family relationships." –Publishers Weekly

After Jesus of Nazareth was baptized, he began his public life, and he performed many miracles. Inspired by Romanesque art, Tomie dePaola brings the New Testament to life as he retells the stories of twelve miracles in the Bible. The Miracles of Jesus begins with "the Wedding at Cana," the first miracle, when Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding feast. This is followed by other miracles Jesus performed, such as his calming of a storm, walking on water, and raising the dead to life. This delightful collection filled with memorable illustrations is perfect for sharing and reading aloud.

A bird-loving boy sets out to solve a pollution problem in this classic eco-conscious tale from Strega Nona author and illustrator Tomie dePaola. Michael is a young boy who loves birds. Every morning he puts on his bird suit and does his work in the countryside, until one day an ominous black cloud appears. What could be causing the black cloud? When Michael discovers that an artificial honey factory is to blame, he comes up with a very sweet solution; one that will keep everyone healthy, including his beloved birds—and the environment. Originally published in 1975, this classic picture book from the legendary Tomie dePaola now features refreshed artwork and a new cover.

In spring, the hills and meadows of Texas and Wyoming are ablaze with the reds, oranges, and yellows of the Indian Paintbrush. How this striking plant received its name is told in an old Indian legend.Many years ago, when the People traveled the Plains, a young Indian boy had a Dream-Vision in which it was revealed that one day he would create a painting that was as pure as the colors of the evening sky at sunset. The boy grew up to become the painter of the tribe, but although he found a pure white buckskin for a canvas and made paints from the brightest flowers and the reddest berries, he could not capture the sunset. How the young Indian artist finally fulfills his Dream-Vision is lovingly told and illustrated by Tomie dePaola, in words and pictures that capture the spirit and beauty of this dramatic legend.

A stunning picture-book interpretation of the legend of St. Christopher Because of his stature, Reprobus the giant sets off to serve the most powerful ruler in the world. At one point during his travels, the giant uses his impressive strength to carry travelers across a fast-flowing river. One stormy night, he risks his life to help a small child across. With each step, the river rises higher, the wind blows harder, and his passenger grows heavier. Finally safe on the other side, the child reveals that he is Jesus, and renames Reprobus “Christopher,” or “Bearer-of-Christ.” Stunning illustrations accompany the dramatic text in this picture book portrayal of the legend of Christopher. This fixed-layout ebook, which preserves the design and layout of the original print book, features read-along narration by the author.

From award-winning author Tomie dePaola comes a witty and charming Christmas tale about Santa getting ready for his big night until…oh no, he’s really got to GO...to the potty! Hurry, Santa! No time to rest, It’s Christmas Eve. And time to get dressed! It’s finally time for Santa to prepare for the most magical night of the year! But before he can spread Christmas cheer to every boy and girl, he must hurry up and get ready. Just when he’s almost out the door, Santa runs back inside because OH NO! Santa’s got to GO! Little ones will be chuckling with merry laughter when they find out that even Santa needs to go to the potty!

In this retelling of a Norwegian tale, a traveler from Finnmark and his polar bear help scare away the trolls that harass Halvor and his family every Christmas Eve.

From New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Tomie dePaola comes an adorable story about little lambs getting their spring haircuts! Winter is finally over! That means it’s time for the Woolsey lambs to get their spring haircuts! They can’t wait to have fun in the warm sun. But the next morning, the fields are covered in snow, and the newly shorn sheep are shivering! Luckily, Granny has the perfect surprise for the family in this delightful story from award-winning author Tomie dePaola, packaged in a gifty board book edition.

Fans of dePaola''s kindly Strega Nona will love this charming look at the early days of her good-hearted but clumsy helper, Big Anthony. Full color.

In this holiday follow-up to Tomie dePaola’s Caldecott Honor–winning Strega Nona, our favorite Grandma-Witch is back and bringing her magic to Christmas with a town feast—can she count on Big Anthony as her only helper? It’s Christmas time in Calabria and with Strega Nona’s annual feast around the corner, she has no time for her usual magical tasks. Christmas has a magic of its own, and no one knows magic like Strega Nona does, especially Big Anthony. But with the clock ticking on her preparations, will Big Anthony finally be able to prove that he can be counted on with some magic of his own? With warm illustrations in Tomie’s classic folk-art style, this refreshed addition to the Strega Nona series is a must-have for fans of all ages.

Presents retellings of twenty-one stories from the Old Testament, including Noah and his animal pairs on the ark, Jonah and the whale, and Moses and the burning bush.

At harvest time, this beloved “grandmother witch” shares the bounty of the season! In this humorous tale, Strega Nona attempts to teach Big Anthony about gardening and the importance of orderly planting. But when Big Anthony does not follow her directions and uses her growing spell, his small vegetable patch turns into an unruly jungle! What will they do with all the extra vegetables? With beautiful illustrations reminiscent of the artwork that won Tomie dePaola the Caldecott Honor for the original Strega Nona, this celebration of harvest and gardening will make the perfect addition to any Strega Nona collection.

A beautifully illustrated picture book portrayal of the life of Mary, mother of Jesus Mary has captured the hearts of people throughout the centuries. Great cathedrals have been built in her honor. Many Christians venerate her image. Nearly 80,000 visions of Mary have been claimed since the third century AD. Drawing on scripture, legend, and tradition, Tomie dePaola re-tells the story of Mary’s life in fifteen beautifully illustrated, child-friendly segments. This is a fixed-format ebook, which preserves the design and layout of the original print book.

Well-loved author Tomie dePaola brings his childhood memories to audio in this collection of the first four books from his 26 Fairmount Avenue series.