For generations, the gentle, wise, and slightly mischievous face of Strega Nona has graced the bookshelves and bedtime routines of families worldwide. Created by the legendary author-illustrator Tomie dePaola, the Strega Nona series stands as a cornerstone of modern children's literature. Among its many delightful installments, Strega Nona's Magic Lessons (A Strega Nona Book) holds a special place, offering a deeper dive into the lore of the "Grandma Witch" and her charming world. This book is more than just a story; it's a gateway to discussions about kindness, responsibility, and the true nature of magic. If you're looking for a bedtime story that combines whimsy with wisdom, this guide will show you why this particular tale is a must-have.
The Enduring Magic of Tomie dePaola's Creation
Before delving into the specific lessons of this book, it's essential to understand the foundation upon which it's built. Tomie dePaola's Strega Nona first appeared in 1975, winning a Caldecott Honor and instantly capturing hearts. DePaola's signature style—warm, folk-art-inspired illustrations paired with simple, rhythmic text—created a timeless aesthetic. The stories are set in a quaint, pastoral Italian village, a setting that feels both familiar and fantastical. Strega Nona herself is a unique heroine: she is a witch, but her magic is primarily used for healing and helping her neighbors, subverting typical tropes and presenting a model of community and compassion. This established universe provides the perfect backdrop for Strega Nona's Magic Lessons, allowing it to expand the mythology while staying true to the core values that made the original so beloved.
What is Strega Nona's Magic Lessons About?
In this enchanting sequel, we see Strega Nona taking on a new challenge: an apprentice. A young girl named Bambolona, who is tired of working in her father's bakery, comes to Strega Nona seeking to learn magic. The story beautifully navigates Bambolona's journey from enthusiastic novice to a thoughtful practitioner. Unlike the impulsive Big Anthony from the first book, Bambolona is diligent, but she still has much to learn about the intent and responsibility behind magical acts. The "magic lessons" serve as a clever narrative device to explore themes of patience, practice, and the idea that true magic often lies in everyday kindness and hard work, not just in spells and potions. It's a brilliant example of an educational story that doesn't feel didactic.
Key Themes and Lessons for Young Readers
This book is a treasure trove of gentle morals, making it an excellent tool for parents and educators. First, it champions the value of seeking one's own path, as Bambolona bravely steps away from the expected family trade to pursue her interest. Second, it emphasizes that mastery requires time and effort; magic (or any skill) isn't instant. Third, and perhaps most importantly, it reiterates that power—magical or otherwise—must be used wisely and for the benefit of others. Strega Nona’s guidance consistently steers Bambolona toward helpful, healing magic, reinforcing positive social values. These themes are woven seamlessly into the plot, allowing children to absorb them through a compelling fantasy narrative rather than direct instruction.
Why This Book is a Perfect Addition to Your Child's Library
As a physical object, this Strega Nona book is a joy. DePaola's illustrations are, as always, central to the experience. The warm, earthy colors and expressive characters tell a story of their own, encouraging children to spend time on each page, discovering new details. The text's rhythmic, repetitive phrases make it ideal for read-aloud sessions, helping to develop early literacy skills like phonemic awareness and vocabulary. For children transitioning from simple board books to longer narratives, Strega Nona's Magic Lessons offers a perfect bridge. Its engaging story holds their attention, while the illustrations provide contextual support for understanding. It's a cornerstone title for any collection of classic children's books.
Connecting to the Larger Strega Nona Universe
One of the great joys of this series is its interconnectedness. Reading Strega Nona's Magic Lessons enhances the appreciation of other books. It introduces Bambolona, who appears in later stories, and deepens the reader's understanding of Strega Nona's role in the community. It acts as a wonderful "second chapter" after the original Strega Nona, showing what happens after the famous pasta pot incident. For a child who falls in love with the character, this book opens the door to the entire Strega Nona series, including seasonal tales like Strega Nona's Harvest or Merry Christmas, Strega Nona. This creates a wonderful reading journey, building literary familiarity and comfort.
Tomie dePaola's Legacy: More Than Just Magic Spells
Discussing this book is incomplete without honoring Tomie dePaola's immense contribution to children's literature. With over 270 books to his name, his work is characterized by a profound respect for childhood, a exploration of spiritual and folk themes, and an unmistakable artistic voice. The Strega Nona series is his most famous creation precisely because it encapsulates all these elements. The stories are rooted in European folklore but are universal in their emotional resonance. DePaola once said he wanted to create "old-fashioned" books that felt timeless, and he succeeded magnificently. Strega Nona's Magic Lessons is a testament to this vision—a story that feels both classic and fresh, capable of enchanting new generations just as it did decades ago.
Final Verdict: A Spellbinding Choice for Storytime
In conclusion, Strega Nona's Magic Lessons (A Strega Nona Book) is far more than a simple sequel. It is a rich, thoughtful expansion of a beloved world that reinforces the core values of the series while offering a new perspective through Bambolona's eyes. It serves as an excellent picture book for developing readers, a comforting bedtime story, and a springboard for meaningful conversations about ambition, ethics, and kindness. Whether you are a longtime fan of Strega Nona or introducing her magic to your family for the first time, this book is a magical lesson in storytelling excellence that deserves a permanent spot on your shelf. Discover the charm for yourself and share the timeless magic of Tomie dePaola's creation.
