Title: Strega Nona

Author: Tomie de Paola

Genre: Traditional (Fable)

Summary: Strega Nona can cure a headache, make warts disappear, and can even mix a potion that will find a girl a husband. Big Anthony, who doesn’t pay attention, comes to work for her. Although Strega Nona tells him never to touch her magic pasta pot, he can’t resist.When Strega Nona leaves Anthony to Watch her house while she’s away Anthony cooks up enough pasta for the whole town. Unfortunately he doesn’t know how to stop the pasta and Strega Nona needs to come home and save the town from being buried under a pile of spaghetti.

Review: Strega Nona is a very straight foward tale that teaches a  valuable lesson, while having fun, magic, and mischief. I always was read this story as a child and I only have the fondest memories of it. It’s a classic fable that shows the importance of listening and following directions.

Content Area Connection:

• Social Studies: Fables from other cultures (Italy).