Every morning and every afternoon, Old Befana sweeps with her broom. “Cranky old lady,” the children say. “She is always sweeping!” Sweep, sweep, sweep. But when a brilliant star glows in the eastern sky one night, Old Befana encounters the glorious procession of three kings on their way to Bethlehem — only to decline their offer to travel with them. She soon regrets her decision, and after spending a night baking, follows after them in hopes of meeting the baby Jesus... leaving sweet treats for all the other children on her way!
In this beloved classic picture book, now reissued in a new hardcover edition, Tomie dePaola retells and illustrates an Italian Christmas folk tale, breathing warmth and humanity into the character of the lonely Old Befana and her endless search for the Christ Child.
Recommended Age | 4 - 8 |
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Author | Tomie dePaola |
Illustrator | Tomie dePaola |
ISBN | 1481477633 |
Publication Date | Sep 2, 1980 |
Publisher | Sandpiper |
Language | English |