The Legend Of The Poinsettia

The Legend Of The Poinsettia, a Mexican legend, tells how the poinsettia came to be, through a little girl’s unselfish gift to the Christ Child.

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.

Beloved Newbery honor-winning author and Caldecott honor-winning illustrator Tomie dePaola has embraced the legend using his own special feeling for Christmas.

His glorious paintings capture not only the brilliant colors of Mexico and its art, but also the excitement of the children preparing for Christmas and the hope of Lucida, who comes to see what makes a gift truly beautiful.

About The Author

Best known for his award-winning picture book Strega Nona and for the 26 Fairmount Avenue series of chapter books, Tomie dePaola is one of the most prolific — and beloved — author/illustrators in the field of children’s literature.

Tomie De Paola  is the author of these recommended books from Learning Through Literature – The Legend of the Indian Paintbrush,

The Night of Las Posadas, andNow One Foot, Now the Other.

Reviews

“I love all of Tomie dePaola books. This one is especially meaningful to explain to students the meaning behind the use of poinsettia at Christmas. I love the story of how families support each other in times of trouble and the magical explanation of gift given with love to the Christ child.”

“Tomie dePaola is another one of my favorite author/illustrators. While reading this book to my daughter last Christmas I actually learned about the legend behind the Poinsettia. Up until the point of reading this book, I didn’t even know there was a legend behind this. This is another great book to add to your holiday reading list. The whole family can learn something new!”