"My Irish grandfather, Thomas Lawrence Downey, was a great storyteller. I never tired of sitting on his knee - and later, when I was a bit too big, sitting at his feet with one of my baby sisters on his knee - listening to his wonderful tall tales. Among the stories I loved the best were the ones about the Irish - and the Downey family in particular. In those tales, I'm afraid, 'dramatic flair' and artistic liberties took over for fact. But as any good storyteller knows, to embellish is to make the tale interesting, especially to a young Tomie."

This is the beloved Strega Nona's own story, every detail just as she remembers it, from her childhood with Grandma Concetta, who trained young Nona and her best friend Amelia, to her early days in the little house on the hill and the happy moments when she met Big Anthony and Bambolona. It is the story of a most fascinating life that has influenced and delighted countless children and adults all over the world, and it all starts with the night Strega Nona was born, when the wind was blowing dark storm clouds across the hills...

Once upon a time, there was lots of luck in Ireland - and plenty of leprechauns around to enjoy it. But when the Big Folk came, they started soaking up all the luck for themselves! So the king of the leprechauns ordered all luck locked away for safe keeping. But now Ireland is in the middle of the potato famine. Can Fiona outsmart the Leprechaun King and release Ireland's luck?

In Mexico, the poinsettia is called flor de la Nochebuenao - flower of the Holy Night. At Christmastime, the flower blooms and flourishes, the quite exquisite red stars lighting up the countryside. This Mexican legend tells how the poinsettia came to be, through a little girl's unselfish gift to the Christ Child. Beloved Newbery honor-winning author Tomie dePaola has embraced the legend using his own special feeling for Christmas.

When a killing drought threatens the existence of the tribe, a courageous little Comanche girl sacrifices her most beloved possession - and the Great Spirit's answer results not only in much needed rain but a very special gift in return.

Pete the Cat is ready to play baseball! Pete's team, the Rocks, is playing the Rolls. But when the game doesn't go Pete's way, what will Pete do?

It’s Christmas Eve. Your traps are set. You’ve made your secret plans. And now I’m coming to your house. SO CATCH ME, IF YOU CAN!

A charming tale of the peddler whose stolen caps mean all kinds of monkey business.

Ancient stories of bards and warriors, narrated by Jim Weiss with passion and sensitivity, enhanced with music from acclaimed pianist, Paul Machlis.

The mice of Brambly Hedge have many adventures but they always have time for fun too. All through the year, they mark the seasons with feasts and festivities and, of course, the mice never miss an opportunity to meet and celebrate. This collection contains four classic stories following their adventures throughout the year.