In this beloved classic picture book, 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. 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, and Old Befana encounters the glorious procession of three kings on their way to Bethlehem, her world will never be the same.
Retells the traditional Italian tale of the poor peasant woman who, long ago, set out to find the Christ Child and wanders to this day, carrying a sack of gifts to distribute to good children at Christmas.
A witty and warm-hearted memoir of abandoning fast-paced American days in favor of discovering the Italian secrets of food, community, and life. Moving across the globe meant Michelle Damiani soon found herself untangling Italian customs, delighting in glorious regional cuisine (recipes included), and creating lasting friendships. From grandmothers eager to teach the ancient art of pasta making, to bakers tossing bread into fiery ovens with a song, to butchers extolling the benefits of pork fat, Il Bel Centro is rich with captivating characters and cultural insights. Throw in clinking glasses of Umbrian red with the local communists and a village all-nighter decorating the cobblestone streets with flower petals; as well as embarrassing language minefields and a serious summons to the mayor’s office, and you have all the ingredients for a spellbinding travel tale. Exquisitely observed, Il Bel Centro is an intimate celebration of small town Italy, as well as a thoughtful look at raising a family in a new culture and a fascinating story of finding a home. Ultimately though, this is a story about how travel can change you when you’re ready to let it. With laugh-out-loud situations and wanderlust-inspiring storytelling, Il Bel Centro is a joyous and life-affirming read that will have readers rushing to renew their passports. “This is one of the most beautiful book I’ve ever read.” “I absolutely couldn’t get enough of this book.” “This book made me want to pack my bags.” “I loved, loved this book. Fabulously written, engaging, and entertaining.” “A magical read.”
The Legend of La Befana. the dear old lady who brings gifts to all Italian children on the 6th January is centuries old. Yet even though she is portrayed as ugly, children see her as giving. Naughty children fear her, yet good children love her. La Befana is greatly celebrated in Italy and all over Europe. There are many versions of her story...this is mine.
On the night of January 5, in certain areas of southern Tuscany, a costumed, singing troupe of characters visits residents' homes, expecting to be fed and feted. This is the Befanata, a mumming tradition centered in Tuscany, whose main character--the Befana--is a kindly old woman or grandmotherly witch who delivers toys, candies, and gifts. The Befana Is Returning is a deeply researched, deftly insightful presentation of this living tradition that adds a large missing piece to the array of contemporary ethnographic scholarship on mumming.
This year-long Arc of the Goddess course will take you on a personal journey of discovery, taking each month as the wheel of the year turns and introducing you to different goddesses and pantheons with your choice (or theirs…) about who you work with and how you work with them. The authors hope to help you connect with the magical energies of each month as well as giving you lots of practical exercises to work with and suggestions on how to make your spiritual connection stronger. At the end of the course it is hoped you will not only have discovered your own personal pantheon of goddesses to work with but also uncovered The Goddess Within…
Explore the Enchanting World of Italy’s Most Treasured Folk Tales Step into a land where ancient olive trees whisper secrets, kind-hearted witches deliver gifts on winter nights, and half-man, half-fish heroes rise from the sea to save their homeland. Folk Tales from Italy: Enchanted Legends of Magic, Miracles, and Mythical Heroes from Italian Folklore invites you on a journey through the rich tapestry of Italy’s legendary past, where every tale is a doorway into a world filled with wonder, wisdom, and timeless beauty. In this captivating collection, you’ll meet unforgettable characters like La Befana, the beloved old witch who brings joy to children during Epiphany, and Colapesce, the legendary figure who holds the fate of Sicily in his hands. Experience the miraculous story of Saint Agatha, whose unwavering faith sparks miracles, and the origins of the famous Tarantella dance, said to be born from the bite of a venomous spider. Each story, steeped in the vibrant culture and history of Italy, offers profound insights and life lessons that transcend generations. A Treasure Trove of Timeless Wisdom and Cultural Heritage These are more than just stories—they are the distilled teachings of a culture, brimming with profound knowledge and timeless wisdom. Folk Tales from Italy is a pleasure to read for all ages, offering narratives that entertain, inspire, and teach universal themes of bravery, kindness, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. This collection is not only a journey into the heart of Italy’s folklore but also a bridge to understanding the values, fears, and hopes of its people. At the heart of this collection lies a mission to preserve these invaluable cultural treasures, ensuring that they continue to inspire and educate future generations. Folk tales are the foundation of human storytelling; they are a window into the soul of a culture. By understanding the stories a culture tells, we gain deeper insights into the human experience. This volume is designed to be a keepsake, a treasure that any library or bookshelf can hold and pass down through the generations. A Must-Have for Any Library or Bookshelf Folk Tales from Italy is envisioned as a cultural heirloom, a book that enriches any personal library or collection. Whether you are a lover of mythology, a seeker of adventure, or a parent eager to introduce your children to the wonders of storytelling, this book is an essential addition to your collection. It’s more than just a book; it’s a celebration of the art of storytelling and a preservation of a priceless cultural heritage. Key Features: Enchanted Italian Legends: Immerse yourself in Italy’s rich folklore, with stories that have been passed down through generations, capturing the essence of the country’s mythological heritage. Perfect for All Ages: This collection offers something for everyone, making it ideal for readers young and old. The stories are as entertaining as they are educational, providing life lessons that resonate across generations. Cultural Insight: Gain a deeper understanding of Italian culture and values through interpretations and analyses of the folk tales that have shaped the nation’s identity. Beautifully Crafted: Designed as a timeless keepsake, this book is a treasure that will enhance any personal library or bookshelf. Folk Tales from Italy is a journey into the heart of Italy’s legendary past, a celebration of its cultural heritage, and a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Add this volume to your collection today and become part of the timeless tradition of folk tales that continue to inspire and teach us about the world and ourselves.
Fiercely independent Mary Pontrelli is blindsided when the New Orleans building housing her New Age store and upstairs apartment is listed for sale. Worse yet, a developer wants to destroy it and her high school ex-boyfriend—ahem, nemesis—is leading their charge. But this budding sweet spot for that weasel from the past can’t happen since traitors never change. The best chance Mary has to save her cherished French Quarter building is to join forces with the other business owners whose livelihoods are also at risk. Too bad she avoids teamwork at all costs. Thankfully, a mystical new customer who shares Mary’s lost Italian heritage may be able to help alter her stubborn patterns. And, learning about the city’s history and her own Sicilian roots from the shopper may prove beyond merely engaging. Even so, acquiring trust in strangers and accepting assistance requires more bravery than any societal expectation she’s challenged in her life. But if she doesn’t depend on her community and learn forgiveness, she may lose her career, home, and deeper relationships. No eccentric spirituality or heritage lessons can fix this…right?
Witchcraft and Moon Magic for a Deeper Practice The Moon: Living, playing and working in tune with her rhythms can change your life and the way you look at the world. She will help you to connect not only with her magic but your own, your intuition and every thread that it wraps around the world. She has the power to transform your life, you have the power within you to do the same…
