Tomie DePaola

A little old lady's attempts to have pancakes for breakfast are hindered by a scarcity of supplies and the participation of her pets.

Describes the special parts of a Seder meal which celebrates the Jewish feast of Passover.

Presents a variety of facts about popcorn and includes two recipes.

A rival puts Strega Nona out of the healing business until Big Anthony's assistance inadvertently sabotages the newcomer in his usual well-meaning way.

A family discusses the origins of the Christmas tree as it decorates its own.

Relates the life and legends of Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.

In Strega Nona's village, the holiday season is a time of celebrations-and nothing says celebration like a feast. All the kitchens are bustling from the Feast of San Nicola, when the children choose the food, to the Feast of Epiphany, when someone gets to be king or queen for the day. Even the animals share in the holiday spirit, and when Big Anthony smells the delicious treats Strega Nona is cooking for them, he decides that just a taste couldn't...

Big Anthony plans a surprise Christmas party for Strega Nona.

While observing the busy world around them, two children and their grandfather take a moment to appreciate being quiet and still.

Having learned to be creative in drawing pictures at home, young Tommy is dismayed when he goes to school and finds the art lesson there much more regimented.