Whatever the subject, dePaola's illustrations are instantly recognizable. “I’ve discovered,” he once said, “that children most respond to books based on my own life.” Many of his books emphasize family relationships and draw on dePaola’s personal experience. Some of his books retell legends that have shaped cultures around the world. The “Strega Nona” stories read like well-worn folktales, as do plenty of dePaola’s other works. Published in 1975, the first book in the series received a Caldecott Honor as one of the most distinguished picture books published that year.

Set in southern Italy, the gently humorous stories focus on Strega Nona, or “Grandma Witch,” who uses magic to help with matters of the heart and to cure her neighbors’ ills. Deceptively simple, his stories contain layers of emotional meaning that appeal to readers of all ages.ĭePaola is probably best known for the “Strega Nona” picture book series.

Susan Lynch, former first lady of New Hampshire and Currier Museum of Art board member Judie dePaola Bobbi, sister of Tomie dePaola Erin Fehlau, WMUR-TV anchor Jon Anderson, president and publisher of Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing Sarah Mackenzie, founder of Read-Aloud Revival and Kathleen McCaffery, English language arts consultant at the New Hampshire Department of Education.ĭePaola (1934-2020) produced an extraordinarily varied body of work that encompasses folktales and legends, informational books, religious and holiday stories, and autobiographical tales. Other participants at the ceremony included Bruce McColl, director of engagement at the Currier Museum of Art Dr. We help Americans of all backgrounds and generations stay connected, no matter where they are.” “At the Postal Service, we feel great kinship in this idea. “There are many gifted children’s book authors and illustrators, but Tomie dePaola’s genius is unique in so many ways: He could communicate with - and without - words, and touch readers across cultures and generations,” said Steve Monteith, chief customer and marketing officer, who was the dedicating official for the ceremony. A dedication ceremony for the stamp was held May 5 at the Currier Museum of Art. Postal Service celebrates children’s book author and illustrator Tomie dePaola with the release of a Forever stamp. USPS Honors Author and Illustrator Tomie dePaola With Forever Stamp

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Tomie series