Strega Nona Takes a Vacation

This charming picture book finds the beloved Italian witch feeling the strain of overwork, dreaming of her grandmother's seaside home while making uncharacteristic mistakes in her magical practice. When Strega Nona accidentally gives the mayor the wrong remedy, even Big Anthony recognizes she needs rest, leading to her decision to take a proper holiday. The story beautifully captures that universal feeling of burnout and the importance of self-care, wrapped in dePaola's signature folk-art style that makes Calabrian culture accessible to young readers.

What makes this installment particularly engaging is how it reverses the usual dynamic—instead of Big Anthony causing chaos, we see Strega Nona's own vulnerability and need for renewal. The subtle humor comes through in her well-intentioned but mismatched gifts to her assistants, setting up potential complications in her absence. Young readers will appreciate seeing their capable heroine acknowledge her limits while still maintaining her magical warmth and wisdom throughout this gentle vacation tale.