Tomie dePaola

Tomie dePaola was an American author and illustrator. He was born in Meriden, Connecticut, in 1934. He wrote and illustrated over 270 books for children. His most famous book is Strega Nona, a story about a magical grandmother in Italy.

Early Life

Tomie knew he wanted to be an artist from the time he was four years old. He loved drawing and painting as a child. He studied art in college and later became a teacher. He published his first children's book in 1965.

Famous Works

Strega Nona, published in 1975, won a Caldecott Honor. The story is about a wise old woman in an Italian village who has a magic pasta pot. DePaola also wrote books about his own childhood, like 26 Fairmount Avenue. He received the Children's Literature Legacy Award for his body of work.

Fun Facts

• Tomie dePaola illustrated over 270 books during his career.
• He painted a mural in a church when he was a young man.
• His books have been published in over 20 countries.

Did You Know?

Tomie dePaola's Italian and Irish heritage inspired many of his stories. He loved sharing folktales from different cultures with young readers.