Legends

The Legend of the Poinsettia

tomie depaola

In Mexico, the poinsettia is called "flor de la Nochebuenao," flower of the Holy Night. At Christmastime, the flower blooms and flourishes, the exquisite red stars lighting the countryside. This Mexican legend tells how the poinsettia came to be, through a little girl's unselfish gift to the Christ Child.

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 the excitement of the children preparing for Christmas and the hope of Lucida, who comes to see what makes a gift truly beautiful.

Genres christmaspicture bookschildrensholidayfictionculturalfolklorereligionfolk talesfamily

32 pages, Paperback

First published January 1,1993

Series

Legends

Places

mexico,

This edition

Format: 32 pages, Paperback
Published: October 6, 1997 by Puffin Books
ISBN: 9780698115675
ASIN: 0698115678
Language: English

About the author

tomie depaola

Tomie dePaola (pronounced Tommy da-POW-la) was best known for his books for children.

He had a five-decade writing and illustrating career during which he published more than 270 books, including 26 Fairmount Avenue, Strega Nona, and Meet the Barkers.

Tomie dePaola and his work have been recognized with the Caldecott Honor Award, the Newbery Honor Award, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, and the New Hampshire Governor's Arts Award of Living Treasure.