Tomie dePaola Papers

Biographical Sketch Tomie De Paola was born on September 15, 1934, in Meriden, Connecticut. He studied art at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, and received his B.F.A. in 1956. He later received an M.F.A. from the California College of Arts and Crafts. Early in his career he worked as a freelance artist, designed, painter, set designer, and teacher. In 1965 he illustrated Soundand Wheels, two informational books for children by Lisa Miller, and in 1966 published his own book, The Wonderful Dragon of Timlin. Throughout his long and prolific career, he has illustrated over 100 books for children, including informational books, realistic picture books, folktales, and other works, written by himself or others.

De Paola's works are noted for their humor and distinctibe illustrations; he is also noted for his versatility and range of topics. His own stories, such as The Art Lessonand Nana Upstairs and Nana Downstairsoften draw upon his childhood and are cited for their sensitivity, realism, and lack of didacticism. His folktales and religious stories, such as The Clown of Godand Francis, the Poor Man of Assisiand other, also display these qualities. His adaptation of Strega Nona, an Italian tale, received a Caldecott Honor citation in 1976. His illustrations are praised by critics for their lavishness and the care he takes to get his meaning across to readers, and the affection and respect he shows for both subject and audience. In 1981 he received the Kerlan Award for his contribution to childrens' literature.

Biographical Sources: Something About the Author vol. 11, 59, 108 Children's Literature Review vol. 81 Something about the Author Autobiography Series vol. 15