This story was lovely and a holiday tradition I have never heard before. The lady of Befana is an italian christmas story. It takes place in January (due to different calendars), where she is in the sky looking for the Christ child. It was a wonderful story from a different tradition that should be shared far and wide.
#Wintergames #teamreadnosereindeer +26 ( )

Before reading this book I had never heard of Old Befana but after reading it, and doing a little side research, I now know that she is basically the Italian version of Santa Claus. Without context I felt really lost reading the book so I would highly recommend that anyone planning to read this with children has a basic understanding of Old Befana before reading. It was also a bit of a sad story to me because this precious old woman was too worried about her housework, mainly sweeping, to follow the wise men. Due to her tardiness she is unable to find the baby Jesus and spends the rest of her days looking for him as she flies around handing out gifts to children. After reading more some of the story makes more sense but at the end of the day it is yet another story meant to keep children in good spirits during the winter season. I have always loved the illustrations by Tomie dePaola as he creates such animated depictions of people and adds such subtle details to bring to life his stories. ( )

This is a great book to read to students near Christmas time. I would not read this book in a public school because it supports the Christian religion and could create problems with student's parents. One could use this book in a first, second, or third grade classroom to teach students about how sometimes, despite our efforts, we still may not accomplish something, but we can still try our best. I would use this book in a writing lesson for students to discuss something that they have put a lot of effort towards, but have not yet reached their goal. They could focus on ways to reach their goals and work on writing lists. This book could also be used in a lesson when learning about myths in folk literature.

Heart warming story ( )

Old Befana keeps to herself until she sees everyone on their way to see the new King. She bakes for King all day, cleans her path and then is on her way. Along her journey she becomes tired. The story explains the Legend of Old Befana.