The main weakness of this book is that it requires a knowledge of the predecessor books in the series to understand the characters and the story context. If you have read the other Strega Nona books by Tomie dePaola, this is a five-star book. If not, this is a three-star book. I have averaged the two scores out to arrive at a four-star rating.The theme of the book is understanding patterns and connections.
The story begins with Strega Nona (Grandma Witch) having a vivid dream about being a child again and being with her Grandma Concetta at the beach. The next day, Strega Nona is distracted, and everyone notices it. In fact, she almost gives the mayor the wrong medicine for his headache.
She then has another dream in which her Grandma tells her to come to her house at the beach. Then, Strega Nona realizes that this is all a subconscious desire for a vacation . . . something she has not had for a long time.
She rounds up Bambolona, her medicine helper, and Big Anthony, her chore helper. They will take care of everyone while Strega Nona is gone.
Strega Nona has a wonderful time by herself at her Grandma's house. She sends presents to Bambolona and Big Anthony. Bambolona covets the candy sent for Big Anthony, and switches the tags so Big Anthony gets bubble bath instead.
Big Anthony doesn't know what bubble bath is, and pours it all into one bath. Soon the entire village is covered with bubbles. At least it's not pasta, again! There are two things that I like very much about this story. First, it encourages a child to think about her or his intuition as a possible source of insight. As a parent you can then encourage your child to share his or her dreams and day dreams, and talk about what they might mean.
Second, the book contains a number of Italian words. This makes for a pleasant way to show how your child easy it is to learn a few words in another language.
Any parent will also appreciate the suggestion here that the adults need a break sometimes, too.
After you have finished enjoying the story, I suggest that you and your child discuss some of the dreams you have had that turned out to be important signs of what you needed to do. Beyond that, consider what dreams you are ignoring now. What do they mean?
Then, perhaps you could discuss the family's next vacation.
Be sensitive to your instincts!
