The Worlds of Tomie dePaola

The Art and Stories of the Legendary Artist and Author

Barbara Elleman

• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
• Year: 2021
• eBook ISBN:
  9781534412279
• Print ISBN:
  9781534412262

Barbara Elleman’s insightful biography on Tomie dePaola captures the essence of the beloved author-illustrator through engaging stories, childhood photos, countless illustrations, and thoughtful analysis of decades of celebrated books.

Tomie dePaola is one of the best-known and most beloved creators of books for children. His art and his stories, which are filled with imagination, humor, grace, and curiosity, represent a love of life that is reflected in everything he does.

Barbara Elleman’s exploration of Tomie dePaola’s career takes a fascinating look at the many worlds dePaola has brought to life through his work: from autobiographical memories to folktales, religious stories, nursery rhymes, and more—including, of course, the inventive world of his most famous character, Strega Nona. Originally published in 1999 and filled with evocative artwork, captivating photographs, and heartwarming anecdotes, this comprehensive book has been updated to cover two new decades of dePaola’s creativity. Elleman’s thoughtful narrative brings a fresh appreciation to the work of a unique author-illustrator, one who is a true legend of children’s literature and a source of lasting joy for generations of readers, young and old.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Title Page
• Dedication
• Introduction
• A Tribute to Tomie by Trina Schart Hyman
• Chapter 1: A Life
• Chapter 2: Autobiographical Tales
• Chapter 3: Strega Nona
• Chapter 4: Folktales
• Chapter 5: Religious and Spiritual Themes
• Chapter 6: Christmas Stories
• Chapter 7: Mother Goose and Other Collections
• Chapter 8: Informational Books
• Chapter 9: Story Making: Patterns, Visual Themes, and Motifs
• Chapter 10: Publishing History
• Chapter 11: Creating the Book
• Chapter 12: DePaola’s Non-Book Art
• Acknowledgments
• About the Author
• Notes
• Major Awards, Events, and Recognitions
• Bibliography
• Art Notes
• Art and Photo Credits
• Index
• Copyright