5 Picture Books to Celebrate Italian American Heritage Month

by Tomie dePaola

Tomie dePaola was one of the most prolific children’s book authors of the last century, and he has written dozens of favorites for young readers. We chose to highlight the beloved and timeless Strega Nona! Strega Nona is the “grandma witch” of her small Italian town with a magic pot of pasta...but what happens when her helper Big Anthony tries to show the townspeople how it works?

by Ma Isabel Sanchez Vegara; illustrated by Raquel Martín

From the Little People, Big Dreams series, this charming biography of Maria Montessori is perfect to share with children. Maria Montessori was a pioneer who changed the way we think about education across the world, but once upon a time, she was a young girl with a dream.

by Dan Yaccarino

For those looking to explore stories about the immigrant experience, Dan Yaccarino’s All the Way to America explores the life of four generations of an Italian immigrant family, beginning with one man’s journey at Ellis island. His parents’ timeless advice, “Work hard, but remember to enjoy life, and never forget your family,” is universal.

by Eve Bunting; illustrated by Nancy Carpenter

Our other favorite Ellis Island tale for little ones is A Picnic in October which tells the story of a young boy whose grandmother insists on a family picnic on Ellis Island every year. Eventually, he learns the reason why this place is so special to her, and to so many others.

by Carole Lexa Schaefer; illustrated by Lauren Tobia

Finally, the Early Literacy team’s picks wouldn’t be complete without a title for babies! Ciao, Baby! Read for a Ride is an adorable book by Carole Lexa Schaefer. Join Baby and Mama as they take the bus (beep beep!) and train (choo choo!) to visit Nonna!