Description

Fans of Tomie dePaola’s kindly Strega Nona will love this charming look at the early days of her good-hearted but clumsy helper Big Anthony. From the day he is born, Big Anthony never pays attention. As a boy, he leaves the gates of the farm open and all the animals escape. As a young man off to make his fortune in the world, he accidentally “fixes” the leaning Tower of Pisa. Will Italy survive the hilarious mishaps of Big Anthony?

“Readers of all ages can be grateful that dePaola continues to practice his magic so well.”
—The New York Times Book Review

“Big Anthony and Strega Nona certainly qualify as celebrities in the realm of picture books, and this latest installment will bring smiles to the faces of their young fans.”
—School Library Journal

About the Author

Tomie dePaola (pronounced Tommy da-POW-la) was best known for his books for children.He had a five-decade writing and illustrating career during which he published more than 270 books, including26 Fairmount Avenue,Strega Nona, andMeet the Barkers.Tomie dePaola and his work have been recognized with the Caldecott Honor Award, the Newbery Honor Award, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, and the New Hampshire Governor's Arts Award of Living Treasure.