The Official Tomie dePaola Blog

Soup

2012-01-07T11:34:00.003-05:00

Christine Marklin is not only known for her talents as a fruitcake judge. She is also known for her superior vegetable garden, and her excellent vegetable soup. But, Christine's soup cannot be bought online. It must be given to you. (By the way, thank you, Christine and Martin, for two large containers of delicious soup!)

However, you can order online GRANDMA'S fantastic chicken soup. This soup was first sent to Tomie as a get-well gift several years ago by Cecilia Yung, Art Director, and Marikka Tamura, Assistant Art Director, G. P. Putnam's Sons.

Since Tomie had a new year's craving for chicken soup, he told Grandma to send him some more. He finished her soup last night. Yum.

www.grandmaschickensoup.com

2011 Canadian Fruitcake Challenge: A Winner Is Crowned! (Drum Roll)

2012-01-05T08:44:00.005-05:00

Anna is holding the winner of the 2011 Canadian Fruitcake Challenge: Jennette's almond-topped fruitcake (or Christmas cake as the Canadians call it). Jennette is from Vancouver as are all of the other competitors. The esteemed Marklin Family of Judges, left to right: Christine, Matthias, Anna, Simeon, Martin. Tomie monitored the judging in his kitchen.

Second place went to Ted and third place went to Roberta.

If you look at the photos on January 3, Ted's cake is the cake at the top of the top photo. Jennette's cake is in the bottom photo in the middle. Roberta's cake is in the bottom photo at the bottom.

The Canadians have decided that this was the last Fruitcake Challenge. So sad. Too much competition amongst friends?

The Marklin Family of Judges has moved on to the next competition. Are they judging haggis in Scotland? (Daughter Judith didn't understand the importance of this fruitcake competition and chose to stay in Germany to continue her studies.)

2011 Canadian Fruitcake Challenge: Five Judges Judging

2012-01-04T09:39:00.001-05:00

2011 Canadian Fruitcake Challenge: Fruitcakes Are Ready to Be Judged

2012-01-03T14:03:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T10:46:00.002-05:00

Nine fruitcakes were received this year for the 2011 Canadian Fruitcake Challenge. They weigh a "ton," and will be judged this afternoon by an esteemed family of judges.

Tomie continues to get stronger each day, and will monitor today's judging.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hannukah

2011-12-25T08:54:00.004-05:00

It's lightly snowing in New London, New Hampshire. All of the electric candles in the windows are lit as are the trees, in the house and the yard. The menu for dinner is planned, and preparations will begin soon. It's beautiful inside and outside, and there are many reasons to be joyous and give thanks.

First and foremost is Tomie's health. After a busy fall of bookstore autographings and personal appearances, he became quite sick in early December. He's recovering very well, and I expect he'll be much stronger and healthier in 2012.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hannukah!

STREGA NONA'S GIFT Is a NEW YORK TIMES Bestseller!

2011-10-31T12:15:00.000-04:00

Oh Snow!!!

2011-10-30T08:58:00.000-04:00

2012 Tomie dePaola Illustrator Award

2011-10-23T10:31:00.002-04:00

The guidelines for the 2012 Tomie dePaola Illustrator Award from the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators are now posted online.

www.scbwi.org/Pages.aspx/Tomie-dePaola-Award

Blue Horse Auction

2011-10-22T08:41:00.004-04:00

Tomie donated a new painting of a blue horse to the "Blue Horse Auction" to benefit the NEA Foundation. Tomie and the other artists were inspired by Eric Carle's new book, THE ARTIST WHO PAINTED A BLUE HORSE. You can bid on Tomie's painting for four more days. Additional artwork will be available after this first group of paintings has sold.

www.ebay.com
Search "blue horse auction."

STREGA NONA'S GIFT and the Krosoczka Family

2011-10-19T10:02:00.003-04:00

STREGA NONA'S GIFT is dedicated to Gina and Jarrett Krosoczka, their daughter, Zoe, and their dog, Ralph. Jarrett wrote a note on his blog about the dedication.
http://thejjkblog.blogspot.com/2011/10/story-of-tomie-and-us.html

Jarrett also suggested to Tomie that he should watch the following YouTube clip.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JxfgId3XTs&feature=player_embedded

Happy Publication Day!

2011-10-18T07:44:00.000-04:00

Calendar

2011-10-15T14:17:00.007-04:00

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2011
Publication of
STREGA NONA'S GIFT
Written and Illustrated by Tomie dePaola
Eleventh book featuring Italian grandma Strega Nona who was first introduced in the Caldecott Honor Award-winning STREGA NONA: AN ORIGINAL TALE.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
FLYING PIG BOOKSTORE
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Event Location:
Shelburne Town Hall
5420 Shelburne Road
Shelburne, VT 05482
www.flyingpigbooks.com
Store Phone: 802-985-3999

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
GIBSON'S BOOKSTORE
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Event Location:
Red River Theater
11 South Main Street
Concord, NH 03301
www.gibsonsbookstore.com
Store Phone: 603-224-0562

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
TOADSTOOL BOOKSHOP
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
12 Depot Square
Peterborough, NH 03458
www.toadbooks.com
Store Phone: 603-924-3543

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
KENNEBOOKS
4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Event Location:
Nonantum Resort
95 Ocean Avenue
Kennebunkport, ME 04046
www.kennebooks.com
Store Phone: 207-967-6136

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
ANDOVER BOOKSTORE
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
89R Main Street
Andover, MA 01810
www.hugobookstores.com
Store Phone: 978-475-0143

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
THE BOOK RACK
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
52 State Street
Newburyport, MA 01950
www.hugobookstores.com
Store Phone: 978-462-8615

MONDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
ANDERSON'S BOOKSHOP
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Event Location:
Naperville Central High School
440 West Aurora Avenue
Naperville, IL 60540
www.andersonsbookshop.com
Store Phone: 630-355-2665

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
NEXT CHAPTER BOOKS
5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
10976 North Port Washington Road
Mequon, WI 53092
www.nextchapterbookshop.com
Store Phone: 262-241-6220

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
RED BALLOON BOOKSHOP
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
891 Grand Avenue
St. Paul, MN 55105
www.redballoonbookshop.com
Store Phone: 651-224-8320

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
NORTHSHIRE BOOKSTORE
**SEE NOVEMBER 12**
4869 Main Street
Manchester Center, VT 05255
www.northshire.com
Store Phone: 802-362-2200

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2011
Book Signing
KENNEBOOKS
**SEE NOVEMBER 27**
149 Port Road
Lower Village Kennebunk, ME 04043
www.kennebooks.com
Store Phone: 207-967-6136

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
BANK STREET COLLEGE BOOKSTORE
4:30 - 6:00 p.m.
2879 Broadway
New York, NY 10025
www.bankstreetbooks.com
Store Phone: 212-678-1654

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
BARNES & NOBLE
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Princeton Marketfair
3535 US Route 1
Princeton, NJ 08540
www.bn.com
Store Phone: 609-897-9250

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
MENDHAM BOOKS
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
Mendham Village Shopping Center
84 East Main Street, Route 24
Mendham, NJ 07945
www.mendhambooks.com
Store Phone: 973-543-4949

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
BOOKS & GREETINGS
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Northvale Square Shopping Center
271 Livingston Street
Northvale, NJ 07647
www.booksandgreetings.com
Store Phone: 201-784-2665

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 5, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
BOOKS, BYTES & BEYOND
4:00 - 5:30 p.m.
197 Rock Road
Glen Rock, NJ 07452
http://www.booksbytesbeyond.com/
Store Phone: 201-670-6766

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
NORTHSHIRE BOOKSTORE
10:30 a.m. - Noon
4869 Main Street
Manchester Center, VT 05255
www.northshire.com
Store Phone: 802-362-2200

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13, 2011
Presentation and Book Signing
CONNECTICUT CHILDREN'S BOOK FAIR
10:15 - 10:45 a.m. Presentation
10:45 - 11:45 a.m. Book Signing
1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Book Signing
Rome Commons Building
Rome Hall, South Campus Complex
University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT 06269
http://bookfair.uconn.edu/2011.htm

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
MORGAN HILL BOOKSTORE
11:00 a.m. - Noon
253 Main Street
New London, NH 03257
www.morganhillbookstore.com
Store Phone: 603-526-5850

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
NORWICH BOOKSTORE
10:30 a.m. - Noon
291 Main Street
Norwich, VT 05055
www.norwichbookstore.com
Store Phone: 802-649-1114

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2011
Book Signing
KENNEBOOKS
1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
149 Port Road
Lower Village Kennebunk, ME 04043
www.kennebooks.com
Store Phone: 207-967-6136

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2011
Brief Presentation and Book Signing
THE MARKETPLACE AT MARKLIN CANDLE
1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
28 Riverside Drive
Contoocook, NH 03229
http://www.marklincandle.com/
Store Phone: 603-746-5442

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2011
Presentation and Book Signing
CONCORD MUSEUM
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
200 Lexington Road
Concord, MA 01742
www.concordmuseum.org/visit/special_events_FamilyTrees.html
Free by reservation only.
Museum Phone: 978-369-9763

More National Book Festival Photos

2011-10-06T14:56:00.002-04:00

Here are some photos from the National Book Festival that PUBLISHERS WEEKLY posted online.

www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/48876-children--s-books-at-the-2011-national-book-festival-a-photo-essay.html

National Book Festival #8

2011-10-06T14:43:00.004-04:00

We had dinner with Sarah Dessen Friday night, September 23, at our hotel, after the National Book Festival Gala in the Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress. Sarah had over 500 people meet her when she autographed the next day at the Festival.

www.sarahdessen.com

National Book Festival #7

2011-10-05T14:35:00.003-04:00

Tom Lederer and Tomie.

Tom's father, Wolfgang Lederer, was Tomie's Master's Degree mentor at the California College of Arts and Crafts (now called California College of the Arts) in Oakland, California, in the late '60s. Tom was in Washington, DC, for a Peace Corps reunion. He was wandering down the National Mall, and by coincidence saw that Tomie was speaking at the National Book Festival on the Mall.

National Book Festival #6

2011-10-04T08:36:00.002-04:00

Tomie had an overflow crowd for his presentation at the National Book Festival. As he climbed the steps to the stage, the crowd cheered and yelled, and it energized Tomie. Here he is teaching the audience how to do an "Italian kiss." Click on the photo to see the audience reactions.

When we left the tent, on a golf cart, to go to the autographing area, some fans ran alongside the cart to get photographs of Tomie. Very funny.

The presentation will be posted on the Library of Congress website. We'll let you know when it's available to watch.

National Book Festival #5

2011-10-03T08:43:00.001-04:00

Jarrett Krosoczka (left) and Matthew Reinhart (right) with Tomie.

www.studiojjk.com
www.matthewreinhart.com

Q & A with Mrs. Moyer's Class

2011-10-02T15:01:00.004-04:00

Mrs. Moyer's second grade class at Stone Ranch Elementary in San Diego, California, wrote.

Almost everyone asked: Is Mrs. Bowers still alive?
Tomie: I don't know. My dancing school teacher, Miss Leah, is still alive. I saw her in July. She looks great!

Matthew: Do you know any baseball players?
Tomie: No

Jared: I think on a great book scale 1 - 10 your books are a 10!
Tomie: Thank you. I think on a great comment scale, 1 - 10, your comment is a 10!

Blue Eyes

2011-10-02T12:44:00.004-04:00

This drawing was in a BIG Happy Birthday letter from Mrs. Coats's second grade class at Clay Lamberton Elementary in Berlin, Wisconsin.

The class asked a couple of questions:
Q: Are you going to be in Wisconsin?
A: I'm going to be autograping at Next Chapter Books in Mequon, Wisconsin, on October 25.

Q: Are you working on another pop-up book?
A: No, but I'm glad that you liked BRAVA, STREGA NONA.

National Book Festival #4

2011-10-02T08:45:00.000-04:00

Tomie and William Joyce.

www.williamjoyce.com

National Book Festival #3

2011-10-01T09:22:00.003-04:00

Marilyn Parr was Tomie's volunteer escort at the National Book Festival on Saturday, September 24. Marilyn was a huge help. Thanks, Marilyn!

National Book Festival #2

2011-09-30T08:16:00.002-04:00

Jarrett Krosoczka (of "Lunch Lady" and PUNK FARM fame) took this photograph of Tomie's line at the National Book Festival autographing.

The good news was that Tomie had a long line of fans. Some of them had stood in line for several hours.

The bad news was that Tomie was scheduled from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. for autographing. The Festival grounds closed at 5:30 p.m. so we were able to stay an extra thirty minutes. We had to limit autographs to one book per person, and no posed photographs. Everyone in line met Tomie, but it's frustrating when an autographing session becomes rushed.

We've been told that Barnes & Noble, the Festival bookseller, said Tomie's books were the only author's books to sell out. Again, it was good that all of the books sold. But, it was bad because some fans were VERY disappointed that there weren't books to buy.

National Book Festival #1

2011-09-29T13:15:00.002-04:00

Tomie and Julianne Moore met at the National Book Festival in Washington, DC, on Saturday, September 24. Julianne Moore's daughter loves "Strega Nona."

Family Trees at the Concord Museum

2011-09-18T16:57:00.003-04:00

Tomie is the Honorary Chair for the Concord Museum's "Family Trees: A Celebration of Children's Literature" in Concord, Massachusetts. Tomie will present a program and autograph books, 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., on Sunday, December 4, 2011.

The event is free by reservation only. Call 978-369-9763.

www.concordmuseum.org/visit/special_events_FamilyTrees.html

Love, Love, Love Burdick's!

2011-09-16T08:27:00.002-04:00

Left to Right: Tomie, Christine Marklin, Marianna McGuffin, Martin Marklin

We went to Burdick's in Walpole, New Hampshire, last night to celebrate Tomie's birthday.

McGuff and Tomie have known each other for 54 years. They have lots of fond memories, including as actors on stage at the Weston Playhouse in Weston, Vermont.

Christine and Martin are dear friends, too. Martin is 50 years old today. Happy Birthday, Martin!

Click on the photo to see the luscious desserts.

www.burdickchocolate.com
www.marklincandledesign.com
www.westonplayhouse.org

Tucson Sends Birthday Greetings

2011-09-15T11:38:00.002-04:00

Ondine is in Ms. Down's second grade class at Manzanita School in Tucson, Arizona. The class sent a big birthday card and letter with self-portrait drawings.

"Happy Birthday, Tomie" Links

2011-09-15T11:04:00.003-04:00

www.cateatsbananasandflies.blogspot.com/2011/09/happy-birthday-tomie.html

www.childrensbookalmanac.com/2011/09/strega-nona

Happy 77th Birthday, Tomie!

2011-09-15T08:49:00.002-04:00

Left to Right: Jeff and Ashley, Megan and Rachel in foreground

The Pierce family, minus Mom, is standing in Popcorn, Indiana, at the corner of Popcorn Road and Popcorn Church Road. The girls sang "Happy Birthday" to Bronte at their home on Tuesday morning. They are probably singing "Happy Birthday" to Tomie this morning.

Happy Birthday, Bronte!

2011-09-13T16:18:00.003-04:00

The Pierce girls and family from Indiana sent Bronte a Big Bite All Natural Dog Biscuit for Bronte's seventh birthday on September 13th. Tomie is sniffing the biscuit and wondering, Anything for me? The girls each made cards for Bronte. The message in Ashley's card was: Paws down, you're the best!

Popcorn, Indiana

2011-09-13T14:48:00.003-04:00

The Pierce girls and family from Indiana sent Popcorn, Indiana treats for Tomie's birthday. Bronte is sniffing the treats and wondering, Anything for me?

www.popcornindiana.com

A Girl's Best Friend

2011-09-09T11:56:00.001-04:00

Megan lives in Mason City, Illinois: You are the best friend a girl can ever have.

Tomie: I've heard that comment in the past. Thank you.

The dePaola Dollhouse Family

2011-09-06T13:51:00.002-04:00

Kelsey lives in Columbus, Ohio.

"I've been a big fan of yours since I was little. I've always been captivated by your drawings, the colors, the faces, and all the little things. I'm 15 now, but when I was younger I used to sit and read PANCAKES FOR BREAKFAST and I'll never forget the phrase 'If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.' When I got my big wooden dollhouse for Christmas when I was eight, I named all of the family members after yours. The mom and dad were Joe and Flossie, the brother and sister were Buddy and Tomie (sorry you were a girl, but I was determined, and she was my favorite anyway) and the baby sister, Maureen. The house even came with another family, and the girl in that family was Jeannie. The book THINGS WILL NEVER BE THE SAME was the first chapter book that I ever fell in love with (FANTASTIC MR. FOX was next). That book made me want to have a diary and is one of the reasons why I still have one today."

Tomie: It's OK that Tomie was a girl since she was your favorite. I know a woman in Minnesota whose name is "Tomie." I hope Buddy and Tomie got along better in your dollhouse than they did at 26 Fairmount Avenue.

26 FAIRMOUNT AVENUE Audiobook

2011-09-06T12:51:00.004-04:00

Suzanne lives in Louisville, Kentucky. The following part of her letter is about the audiobook edition of 26 FAIRMOUNT AVENUE.

"It was January. It was cold and gray. And I was going through a particularly difficult time in my life. There's no way to express what listening to that book on tape did for my mood, my mental health and my heart! Every morning we'd turn on the car CD player before even leaving the driveway, so anxious to hear your captivating stories and exuberant, laughter-filled voice. The book itself is wonderful, but to hear you read your own words to us in your own unique, completely joyful way was a special gift. I'll never forget those mornings - driving along on the way to school with my 4 and 6 year olds in the back seat, steaming coffee mug in one hand and silent tears streaming down my face from the difficulties of the night before. And then, suddenly, laughter bubbling to the surface and unexpectedly ending the tears and sadness, all because of you and your wonderful anecdotes. You are SUCH an amazing storyteller!"

Tomie: Thank you for the sweet words.

Bear "Sighting"

2011-09-06T12:47:00.003-04:00

Last night a bear feasted in the corn field in Tomie's meadow, and later walked around the yard and left his "mark."

Saint-Ex

2011-09-05T11:15:00.003-04:00

We went to the Weston Playhouse yesterday in Weston, Vermont, to see a world premiere performance of "Saint-Ex," a musical "about Antoine de Saint-Exupery's world, imagination and dreams." Tomie gave it a "thumbs up."

The Weston Playhouse building was impacted by Tropical Storm Irene so it was amazing that "Saint-Ex" could even be performed again.

It was strange to see in Vermont houses and roofs sitting on the side of brooks - brooks that were raging and destructive rivers during Irene. Some roads were a mess and many yards were full of dried mud.

Photographs of the damage caused by Irene flooding can be seen on the Weston Playhouse's Facebook page, and the BURLINGTON FREE PRESS website.

www.westonplayhouse.org
www.burlingtonfreepress.com

Good Night, Irene

2011-09-02T08:49:00.002-04:00

We were mostly unaffected by Irene. Wind, lots of rain, and that's about it. The electricity was off for about four hours, but Tomie had a generator, and power. We were shocked to read and hear the next day about all of the destruction elsewhere. We had no idea.

The weather has been beautiful since Sunday. We can't imagine what others are facing as they pick up the pieces.

ALA: #3

2011-08-23T10:17:00.001-04:00

Dorothy Fitts, Head Librarian, at Lafayette County and Oxford Public Library in Oxford, Mississippi.

The Barbara Elleman Research Library Lecture

2011-08-23T08:49:00.004-04:00

The Barbara Elleman Research Library Lecture is "a series featuring the country's preeminent scholars, book collectors, researchers, editors, authors, and illustrators in the field of children's literature" at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art.

Patricia Lee Gauch will give the First Annual BERL Lecture.

Saturday, October 22, 2011
Lecture: The Picture Book as an Act of Mischief
"Celebrate the magic and mystery of the picture book as a key genre in literature for children." Free with Museum Admission.

Pre-Lecture Event
Friday, October 21, 2011
Creating a Picture Book: An Editor's Eye View
"Master Class with editor-writer Patricia Lee Gauch. Delve into how visual and textual elements work together to make a great picture book. Designed for students, teachers, and beginning illustrators. Registration is required. (18 years and up)"

www.carlemuseum.org/Programs_Events/Upcoming

(Barbara Elleman wrote TOMIE DEPAOLA, HIS ART & HIS STORIES.)

The Carle Honors Art Auction

2011-08-23T08:37:00.002-04:00

"Our fourth annual art auction will feature original works of art donated by eleven of the industry's most celebrated artists. This year also offers the opportunity to bid on special 'experiences' with authors and artists - a personal meeting, specially personalized artwork or writings, or other once-in-a-lifetime gifts."

www.carlemuseum.org/carlehonors/auction2011

The Tomie dePaola Historical Museum Library and Bookstore

2011-08-22T16:32:00.004-04:00

Emily and Nathan live in Portland, Connecticut.

"We so enjoyed your descriptions of 26 Fairmount Avenue that we decided to go visit it this week. We were very saddend and dissapointed to see that it had been abandonned and disrespected by its last owners. We would like to suggest that you buy your childhood house back again since it is now up for sale. I would suggest making it into a museum, library, bookstore or historical site."

Tomie: I was in Meriden, Connecticut, not long after receiving your letter and I drove by the house. It does look a bit sad. It was a great place to live when I was young. A lot of great memories came to me as I drove through the neighborhood. But, I don't think I'll buy the house.

Morgan Hill Bookstore, Photo #2

2011-08-21T08:28:00.002-04:00

Rita and Bob Cricenti owned the Cricenti's Markets in New London and neighboring towns. They sold the markets a few years ago. When they drive near Paola in Italy, they think of Tomie.

Morgan Hill Bookstore, Photo #1

2011-08-21T08:23:00.002-04:00

Cynthia Prince came to the autographing at Morgan Hill Bookstore in New London yesterday. She organized a reading program in the Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, public schools 30 years ago. She is still active in the program.

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #12

2011-08-20T16:22:00.002-04:00

Kathie and Kevin Matsil. Kathie is the Children's Librarian at the Tomie dePaola Children's Library at Meriden Public Library.

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #11

2011-08-20T10:27:00.002-04:00

Left to Right: Sue, Carol, Jeanne, Steve, Leah, Rhoda, Tomie

We went to Rhoda's house after the Meriden Public Library celebration. Sue is Carol's daughter. Carol was Tomie's grade school and high school dancing partner. Jeanne is Rhoda's friend. Steve is Leah's son. Miss Leah was Tomie and Carol's dancing school teacher. Rhoda helped Leah at the dancing school.

Meriden Public Library Posters #3

2011-08-19T08:35:00.002-04:00

Meriden Public Library Posters #2

2011-08-19T08:28:00.001-04:00

Meriden Public Library Posters #1

2011-08-19T08:13:00.005-04:00

The Meriden Public Library created READ posters using staff members' children and pet. The framed posters hang outside the new Tomie dePaola Children's Library. What a clever idea for any library, school and classroom!

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #10

2011-08-16T11:48:00.002-04:00

Left to Right: Shelby Bobbi, Patrick Bobbi, Judie Bobbi, David Bobbi, Ellie dePaola

Judie is Tomie's sister. David is Judie's husband. Patrick is Judie and David's son. Shelby is Patrick's wife. Ellie is Judie and Tomie's niece.

Pasta and Songs

2011-08-15T12:22:00.002-04:00

Lily lives in Agoura Hills, California.

"Me and my class and the other sencend grad classes had a pasta party. We sang On Top of Spaghetti and That's Amore. It was so so fun. I think Strega Nona is your best book."

Tomie: What a great party!

You're Never Too Old

2011-08-15T11:43:00.003-04:00

Dan lives in Las Cruces, New Mexico.

"I sure would like to thank you for the book you wrote called, 'The Legend of Bluebonnet.' This was the first book that I ever read in my life. I should tell you that I am in my late sixties. I didn't get to learn to read when I was growing up, but I am learning now."

Tomie: I admire you.

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #9

2011-08-15T08:12:00.001-04:00

Left to Right: Peggy Marchetti, Karen Roesler, Ellen Anderson

Peggy and Ellen are Tomie's twin cousins. Karen is the Library Director of the Meriden Public Library.

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #8

2011-08-15T08:07:00.001-04:00

Bina Williams is a Youth Services Librarian at Bridgeport Public Library in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Twelve Hours

2011-08-14T08:39:00.002-04:00

We made the annual trip to the Weston Playhouse with Peggy (left) and Connie (right) of Morgan Hill Bookstore. We started with lunch at Fat Franks in Bellows Falls, Vermont. Next was shopping at the Vermont Country Store in Rockingham, Vermont. We then saw "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum" at the Weston Playhouse in Weston, Vermont. After laughing hard, we settled our minds by attending Vespers at the Weston Priory. We next filled our tummies with a wonderful meal at the Inn at Weston.

www.morganhillbookstore.com
www.facebook.com/pages/Fat-Franks-The-Wurst-Place-in-Bellows-Falls/109552234684/
www.vermontcountrystore.com
www.westonplayhouse.org
www.westonpriory.org
www.innweston.com

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #7

2011-08-13T09:00:00.001-04:00

Mickey Mariash from Mamaroneck Avenue School in Mamaroneck, New York.

Joe Pye Weed

2011-08-12T16:09:00.000-04:00

Italian in the House

2011-08-12T09:01:00.002-04:00

Anthony Manupelli visited yesterday to discuss a possible biopic/documentary about Tomie.

www.pelletproductions.com

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #6

2011-08-11T09:47:00.001-04:00

Kiss the Cook! Kevin Matsil prepared a ton of food for the afternoon gathering at Kathie and Kevin's home.

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #5

2011-08-11T09:39:00.003-04:00

Kathie and Kevin Matsil hosted an afternoon gathering of Tomie's close friends and family prior to the evening gathering at the Meriden Public Library. Kathie is the children's librarian.

Left to Right: Kathie, Sue Keenan, Sherry Litwack, Tomie, Judie Bobbi, Ellie dePaola

Sue's mother is Carol, Tomie's childhood dancing partner. Sherry is a close friend. (She handles Tomie's artwork sales.) Judie is Tomie's youngest sister. Ellie is Tomie's niece, and Tomie's brother Buddy's (Joe's) daughter.

Wilder Award Party, Photo #12

2011-08-10T09:21:00.001-04:00

Christine and Martin Marklin came to the party to represent the wonderful Marketplace at Marklin Candle in Contoocook, New Hampshire.

www.marklincandle.com

Wilder Award Party, Photo #11

2011-08-10T09:20:00.001-04:00

Bern and Peter Collins of South Burlington, Vermont.

www.pfclaw.com

Wilder Award Party, Photo #10

2011-08-10T09:18:00.002-04:00

Jeanne Lamb of the New York Public Library, and Andrew Medlar of the Chicago Public Library.

The Happy Family

2011-08-10T07:26:00.001-04:00

Left to Right: Anne Marie, Tomie, Brita

Brita is Tomie's Swedish "girlfriend," and Anne Marie is Brita's daughter.

Great Find

2011-08-10T07:22:00.002-04:00

Stephanie has cleaned for Tomie for nearly 30 years. This spring and summer she has enjoyed finding flowers in the gardens for flower arrangements in the house. She found these flowers yesterday.

Wilder Award Party, Photo #9

2011-08-09T08:34:00.003-04:00

Here are Susan and Tom Galligan with Tomie. Tom is president of Colby-Sawyer College in New London. He testified before Congress on the BP disaster regarding maritime law.

www.colby-sawyer.edu

Wilder Award Party, Photo #8

2011-08-09T08:31:00.002-04:00

Wilder Award Committee members, Martha V. Parravano and Andrew Medlar, are posing with Tomie and his Wilder Award medal. Martha is at THE HORN BOOK MAGAZINE and Andrew is at Chicago Public Library.

www.hbook.com

Wilder Award Party, Photo #7

2011-08-08T13:10:00.002-04:00

When Tomie received the phone call in January from the Wilder Award Committee, he was having his annual holiday party. He was standing by the "bar" in the kitchen, and near the telephone when the phone rang.

When Tomie had his Wilder Award Party on July 31, he stood by the "bar" in the kitchen, and near the telephone waiting for a phone call about ANOTHER award.

But, the phone didn't ring.

Wilder Award Party, Photo #6

2011-08-08T13:05:00.002-04:00

Left to Right: Lisa Fabiano, Tomie, Allison Pottern Hoch, Margaret Aldrich

Lisa, Allison and Margaret came from Wellesley Books in Wellesley, Massachusetts.

www.wellesleybooksmith.com

Wilder Award Party, Photo #5

2011-08-08T13:03:00.001-04:00

Isabel Berg is from Book Ends in Winchester, Massachusetts.

www.bookendswinchester.com

Wilder Award Party, Photo #4

2011-08-07T13:46:00.002-04:00

Wendy Kelso (left) and Madeline Braun (right) came to the party from Kennebooks in Kennebunk, Maine.

www.kennebooks.com

Wilder Award Party, Photo #3

2011-08-07T13:39:00.002-04:00

Jessica Wood came from the Northshire Bookstore in Manchester Center, Vermont, to attend the party last week.

www.northshire.com

RECORD-JOURNAL (Meriden, Connecticut), July 31, 2011

2011-08-06T14:51:00.000-04:00

Gagootz!

2011-08-05T08:00:00.001-04:00

Coleen gave Tomie a cucuzza from her mother's New Jersey garden. Cucuzza is an Italian squash. It's commonly called "gagootz."

Brunch by Suzy Staubach

2011-08-04T08:19:00.001-04:00

Suzy Staubach of the University of Connecticut Co-op wrote about the brunch with her unique spin.

www.willowtreepottery.us/Willow_Tree_Pottery/BiblioPotter/Entries/2011/8/1_Tomie_dePaola_Pot_Collector.html

Brunch by Elizabeth Bluemle

2011-08-04T08:16:00.003-04:00

Flying Pig Bookstore's Elizabeth Bluemle's column about the brunch is at Publishers Weekly online.

http://blogs.publishersweekly.com/blogs/shelftalker/
August 4, 2011, column

www.flyingpigbooks.com

Studio Photo

2011-08-03T09:00:00.001-04:00

I had to take some photos of Tomie's studio. Here's one looking at the back of his drawing table.

Wilder Award Party, Photo #2

2011-08-02T08:21:00.002-04:00

Suzy Staubach (left) and Terri Goldich (right) attended Sunday's Wilder Award party for New England booksellers and friends. They won the award for traveling the greatest distance. Suzy is at the University of Connecticut Co-op in Storrs, and Terri is at the Northeast Children's Literature Collection at the University of Connecticut in Storrs.

Wilder Award Party, Photo #1

2011-08-01T14:59:00.002-04:00

Catalina Cuervo and John Hugo came yesterday to Tomie's Wilder Award Party for New England booksellers and friends.

www.hugobookstores.com

Decorating the House for a Party

2011-07-30T13:05:00.004-04:00

Sunflowers from Spring Ledge Farm.

www.springledgefarm.com

It's a Beautiful Day

2011-07-30T13:02:00.000-04:00

Another Great Dinner at Burdick's

2011-07-29T10:36:00.003-04:00

Left to Right: Nancy Johansen, Tomie, Thea Johansen-Talento, Caddie Johansen, Vinny Talento.

Nancy is a friend of long-standing (another way of saying "an old friend") from Minnesota. She was visiting her daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter in Vermont. We had dinner at Burdick's in Walpole, New Hampshire.

Vinny is an owner of the Prince and the Pauper Restaurant in Woodstock, Vermont, and an owner of Blue Moon Sorbet.

www.princeandpauper.com
www.bluemoonsorbet.com
www.burdickchocolate.com

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #4

2011-07-28T07:36:00.002-04:00

This is the moment that Tomie learned the children's library was being named after him. Joan Edgerly, Meriden Public Library Board President, is reading the citation.

Musical Tribute at Meriden Public Library Event

2011-07-26T13:54:00.001-04:00

http://meriden.patch.com/articles/video-extra-tomie-depaola-musical-tribute#video-7137878

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #3

2011-07-26T12:57:00.003-04:00

Porter Gillespie and Marikka Tamura attended the library event. Marikka is the Assistant Art Director for Tomie's publisher, Nancy Paulsen Books at Penguin Young Readers Group. Marikka and Porter also are the designers for tomie.com.

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #2

2011-07-26T08:29:00.000-04:00

Meriden Public Library Celebration, July 23, Photo #1

2011-07-25T12:55:00.002-04:00

Tomie's Blog Blogger takes a photo of Tomie with Meriden Public Library Board President Joan Edgerly.

Photo Credit: Laurie Rich Salerno, meriden.patch.com

Tomie dePaola Children's Library Article #2

2011-07-25T10:56:00.001-04:00

Another article.

http://meriden.patch.com/articles/meriden-library-renames-childrens-wing-after-tomie-depaola

The Tomie dePaola Children's Library

2011-07-25T10:22:00.002-04:00

The article is full of errors, but that's OK.

www.myrecordjournal.com/meriden/article_fcd6bd9e-b592-11e0-b9e1-001cc4c002e0.html

Tomie dePaola: Book Reviewer

2011-07-17T07:46:00.001-04:00

Tomie reviewed a book for THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW.

www.nytimes.com/2011/07/17/books/review/childrens-books-orani-by-claire-a-nivola.html?_r=1&ref=books

ALA: #2

2011-06-29T10:22:00.002-04:00

Left to Right: Nancy Paulsen, Meredith Level, Tomie, June Level

Dear friend June Level and her daughter, Meredith, stopped by the Penguin booth to see Tomie and his editor, Nancy Paulsen.

Tomie on New Orleans Radio

2011-06-28T15:13:00.004-04:00

Tomie taped a phone interview with Susan Larson of WWNO, the NPR channel, in New Orleans for her program, "The Reading Life," prior to traveling to New Orleans for the ALA conference.

www.publicbroadcasting.net/wwno/news.newsmain/article/8008/0/1819021/The.Reading.Life/The.Reading.Life..62311

ALA: #1

2011-06-28T13:54:00.003-04:00

We met these women from the Charleston County Public Library, Charleston, South Carolina, on June 24, during the American Library Association conference in New Orleans. Left to Right: Jennifer, Cynthia, Tomie, Misty, Jennifer. OR, Left to Right: Jennifer, Misty, Tomie, Cynthia, Jennifer.

Katia Wish

2011-06-12T13:49:00.002-04:00

Tomie met Katia Wish on Saturday, May 14, at the New England SCBWI Conference. Katia was the 2011 recipient of the SCBWI Tomie dePaola Illustration Award.

www.katiawish.com

Candy or Zyrtec?

2011-06-12T13:40:00.003-04:00

Ms. Chen's second grade class at Grant School in Santa Monica, California, sent letters and drawings.

Samara: I espcially like 26 Fairmount Ave. I think it is funny when you think the laxatives are chocolate! It reminds me of when I ate 15 Zyrtecs. I thought they were candy. It was not pleasant.

I'm Stuck Like Super Glue!

2011-06-12T12:44:00.003-04:00

Tiegan is the poet and artist. Tiegan is in Roxanne Roberts's third grade class at Greenville Schools in Greenville, Maine. Click on the drawing to see the image better. The class sent Cinquain Poems, drawings and letters.

Tiegan: Once I read your books I'm stuck like super glue to them!

Tomie: You had me at "super glue."

Roxanne Roberts: As a result of reading "The War Years" [in the "26 Fairmount Avenue" series] you helped introduce these kids from rural Maine to diversity, but also social intolerance.

Tomie: Thank you for the kind comments. I hope to finish the "26 Fairmount Avenue" books with one last volume.

From the Garden: Centaurea

2011-06-10T09:25:00.002-04:00

Tomie's Favorite: Coral Peonies

2011-06-09T08:54:00.003-04:00

But, Don't Blame Me

2011-06-03T14:54:00.004-04:00

Samantha is in Mrs. Avery's or Mrs. Colonese's third grade class at Pond Hill Elementary in Wallingford, Connecticut: My favorite holiday is Christmas because you get to get anything you want; like an Ipod. I usually pick things with high prices. In one of the books you drew on the sheets and one time I drew on the sheets and the wallpaper just like you did. My mom and dad found it.

Tomie: Oops!

Greenhouse Bed, Just Planted

2011-06-02T16:15:00.000-04:00

Bleeding Hearts

2011-06-01T07:17:00.000-04:00

Click on photo for a closer look.