Strega Nona
#1 of 13 in Strega Nona Series
on Goodreads (2)
What’s inside...
Experience the treasured children’s classic and Caldecott Honor–winning Strega Nona in a hands-on way with this fantastic play set complete with scripts, backdrops, and stand up characters so readers can act out the beloved story! Strega Nona is ready to storm the stage just in time for her fortieth anniversary! This play set is perfect for fans who want to act out Tomie dePaola’s timeless tale. This exciting play set includes three backdrops for settings, three script books, eight stand-up 3D play pieces with different characters, and a reusable box for storage. Now…dim the lights…take a seat…and get ready for a Strega Nona play!
Discussion points
What do you think about Strega Nona's magical powers? How would you use magic to help others?
Why do you think Big Anthony didn't follow Strega Nona's instructions? How important is it to listen carefully?
What lessons do you think Big Anthony learned by the end of the story?
How did the villagers react to the overflowing pasta? What would you do if you were in their situation?
What does this story teach us about trust and responsibility?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to reflect on the consequences of not following instructions by relating them to their daily routines.
Discuss the importance of helping others and ask your child to think of ways they can be helpful in your home or community.
Connect the themes of trust and responsibility in the story to real life, prompting your child to share times when they had to be responsible or someone had to trust them.
Use expressive reading to make the magical elements of the story come alive, enhancing your child's immersion and enjoyment.
After reading, engage your child in a creative activity such as drawing their favorite scene or imagining their own magical story to reinforce comprehension and creativity.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Responsibility
Explanation: In 'Strega Nona', Big Anthony fails to listen to Strega Nona’s instructions about handling her magical pasta pot, resulting in chaos in the village.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of following directions and the consequences of neglecting responsibilities, helping them manage tasks more efficiently in daily routines.
Example Lesson: Consequences of actions
Explanation: The story illustrates that every action has a consequence, as shown by the overflow of pasta when Big Anthony misuses the magic pot.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to think before they act and to consider the possible outcomes of their actions, promoting thoughtful decision-making.
Example Lesson: Respect for others' belongings
Explanation: Big Anthony’s mishap with the pasta pot demonstrates a lack of respect for Strega Nona’s property and the trust she placed in him.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to respect others' possessions and privacy, fostering a sense of trust and community.
Example Lesson: The value of forgiveness
Explanation: Despite the trouble caused, Strega Nona forgives Big Anthony, highlighting the power and importance of forgiveness.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to be forgiving towards others’ mistakes, aiding in building and maintaining healthy relationships.