THE LEGEND OF OLD BEFANA: An Italian Christmas Tale

by Tomie--Adapt. de Paola ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 2, 1980

De Paola doesn't give Befana the sentimental history that set the tone for Rockwell's 1974 version of the legend, but his larger, blandly decorated pastel pages don't give the story much life either. No doubt this fairly straightforward telling will serve better than Rockwell's to introduce the Italian counterpart of Santa Claus to a picture-book audience. But despite de Paola's jacket-flap references to the symbolism of his decorative motifs (oak tree, stars, etc.), the pictures have the look and flavor of sugar-frosted store cookies.

Pub Date: Sept. 2, 1980

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Sept. 1, 1980

Categories: CHILDREN'S