If, like me, you're having a reeeeeeeally hard time dredging up any Christmas spirit and ho ho ho, this book may do the trick. (Written by James Doti and illustrated by Lisa Mertins.)
(Book cover and sample illustration stolen from the book's web site)
If you're looking for a new Christmas book to share with a young child, this is a beautiful choice. The story is true but very simple, written by James Doti about a visit to his grandmother as a child in Chicago's Little Italy. My girls are a little bit old for the story, but not for the heart of Mr. Doti's tale. Who could not love a story about a grandma who bakes cookies, and a pet dog and snow and big city life? They love it.
I had the privilege of meeting Lisa Mertins, whose delightful illustrations give the book life, at an event last month. Though I've known her through the internutz and admired her painting skills, I was thrilled to find out that she's just as nice and interesting and funny as she is talented.
I ordered A Christmas Adventure in Little Italy directly from Lisa, but you can order it from the web site or from your favorite bookseller.
From the web site:
Stay tuned for tomorrow's FOOLHOGG -- another good gift under $15!
The illustrations are beautiful, Marcy. We even looked on the internet to find pictures of the neighborhood and the church. Cant wait to bake the biscotti (the actual recipe from Mr. Dotis grandma is in the back of the book).
Posted by: foolery | December 10, 2010 at 11:03 PM
Isnt it wonderful! I am waiting on my copy to arrive...but oh I can hardly wait!
My husband was born in Chicago. As the son of Italian immigrants no less. I can not wait to give him a copy!
Posted by: Marcy Massura | December 10, 2010 at 05:34 PM
Lisa, I wanted that exact experience, so I bought my copy for the girls way before Christmas in order to enjoy it through the season. Thanks Lisa!
Posted by: foolery | December 10, 2010 at 07:43 AM
thanks for posting this laurie! its such a great honor to be affiliated with bringing president doti's childhood story to life!
at a reading of the book at orange public library, i watched the faces of the kids and parents...what a pleasure to see!
cheers and merry christmas too :)
Posted by: lisa mertins | December 10, 2010 at 06:59 AM