C Is for Ciao: An Italy Alphabet

by Elissa D. Grodin

Book Overview

From its unparalleled achievements in art and architecture (the Sistine Chapel), science and exploration (Galileo Galilei), music and literature (Stradivarius and Dante), the country of Italy has had a lasting and profound impact on the world. In C is for Ciao: An Italy Alphabet, young readers are invited to explore Italy's rich history, diverse geography, and many traditions. Sumptuous artwork magnifies each letter topic's poem expository text. R...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1585363618
• ISBN13: 9781585363612
• Release Date: December 2008
• Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press
• Length: 40 Pages
• Weight: 1.25 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 10.1" x 11.1"
• Age Range: 6 to 9 years
• Grade Range: Grades 1 to 4

Customer Reviews

An excellent introduction to the richness of Italian history and culture

Governor of New York Mario M. Cuomo adds a personal message to C is for Ciao: An Italy Alphabet, an ABC picturebook designed to introduce young people to the wonders and great figures of Italy. Each entry features beautiful, full-color art, a brief stanza that younger readers can follow fairly easily, and a sidebar consisting of multiple paragraphs of extensive text concerning the topic of discussion, more suited for adults to read aloud to young children. For example, the Z stanza is "Z is for Zabaglione, / a delightful Italian treat. / Made with sugar and eggs, / cooked 'til it's ready to eat." Meanwhile, the descriptive paragraphs include the passage "Dessert is perhaps the least important part of an Italian meal. It is common practice in many restaurants to offer nothing fancier than a savory piece of locally made cheese and some fresh fruit at the end of a meal. Traditionally, sweet desserts are associated with special occasions such as holidays and family celebrations". The combined whole is an excellent introduction to the richness of Italian history and culture.