Are you looking for a great way to introduce your little ones to the rich culture of Italy? Whether it is through vivid illustrations or stories with enduring morals, children’s books about Italy are an ideal way to learn about the country’s culture. With these books, young minds will be captivated by everything that makes Italy so special.
When I was planning an Italian summer family vacation, I wanted to teach my kids as much about the places that we would be visiting as possible. I did some research and found these books covering various regions of Italy. We read each and every one of these picture books. My kids gained an understanding and appreciation for Italy and its culture.
Children’s Books About Italy
These brilliant travel books showcase all that Italy has to offer including its people, history, geography, art, and more! Explore the wonders of this Mediterranean country with this list of Italy kid’s books.
1. Ciao Sandro
Ciao Sandro
Reading Age: 4-8 years old
Ciao Sandro is a heartwarming story of the unconditional bond between Nicola and his canine companion, set against the picturesque backdrop of Venice. With the help of his friends from around the city, the clever pooch plans a special surprise for Nicola.
Filled with beautiful illustrations and lots of heart-warming moments, young readers can see Sandro’s adventures as he explores Venice – planning a memorable surprise for Nicola. A wonderful read for any child who loves stories about animals and friendship!
This is one of my kids’ favorite children’s books about Italy.
2. Madeline and the Cats of Rome
Madeline and the Cats of Rome
Reading Age: 6-8 years old
Madeline and the Cats of Rome is a beloved children’s book. It follows Madeline and the 11 other little girls as they board a train to go sightseeing in Rome. Suddenly, their adventures take an unexpected turn when a thief snatches Miss Clavel’s camera. This prompts Madeline to courageously chase her into a house filled with cats.
Madeline becomes caught up in the thief’s schemes before the group of girls hatch a plan to save the cats by finding them forever homes.
3. Living in . . . Italy
Living in . . . Italy
Reading Age: 5-7 years old
Following the adventures of Pia, a young Italian girl, helps readers explore the wonders of Italy. From its stunning historic landmarks to its vibrant cities, this children’s book offers an educational and fun approach to understanding the culture, history, and geography of this country.
Visiting with Pia as she goes about her day provides readers with a way to experience Italian life from a naturally inquisitive child’s perspective—highlighting food, family traditions, activities, customs, and more.
4. Tony’s Bread
Tony’s Bread
Reading Age: 4-8 years old
In the charming children’s book by beloved author Tomie dePaola, readers are whisked away to the picturesque outskirts of Milan, Italy. Here they are introduced to Tony, a talented and devoted baker, and his lovely daughter, Serafina. Serafina captures the hearts of many, yet her doting father can’t seem to find a single suitor deserving enough for his precious girl.
All seems uncertain until fate brings Serafina to fall in love with the debonair Angelo, a wealthy nobleman from Milan. Clever Angelo devises an ingenious plan to win not only Serafina’s heart but also her father’s approval. He convinces Tony to create a special, delectable bread that would bring him immense fame and fortune throughout Milan.
As Tony’s star rises and the delicious bread earns its due recognition, Angelo and Serafina are joyfully united in marriage, culminating in the beloved Italian origin story of the scrumptious Panettone.
5. Olivia Goes to Venice
Olivia Goes to Venice
Reading Age: 3-7 years old
Olivia’s journey to Venice is an exciting one! She visits iconic landmarks, such as the Doge’s Palace, Piazza San Marco, Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, and the Bridge of Sighs, while tasting delicious gelato along the way.
From her search for the perfect souvenir to her memorable departure, kids will love going on this adventure through Venice with Olivia.
6. The Clown of God
The Clown of God
Reading Age: 4-7 years old
Starting as a poor and homeless street performer in Sorrento, a young Giovanni makes it his mission to travel and use his talent to entertain people far and wide. His impressive juggling skills bring joy to people all across Italy. But time eventually takes its toll, and Giovanni finds that he cannot continue doing his beloved art anymore.
On a cold winter night, he makes the journey back to his hometown and finds himself beneath the Lady and Child in the church. With the strength he has left, Giovanni juggles one last time for Jesus so that He might smile. What happened next changes everything for Giovanni – for it is then that The Clown of God is born.
7. Pippo the Fool
Pippo the Fool
Reading Age: 5-8 years old
Pippo the Fool is a children’s book that tells the story of Filippo Brunelleschi and his design of Florence Cathedral’s dome. A contest was announced for artists to explain how they would build a dome on the cathedral. Filippo Brunelleschi came up with a plan that stood out from all others.
His unwavering dedication and hard work throughout the years eventually paid off when he saw his plan come to life; he was given the job of constructing his dome! Ever since its completion, it has been an iconic symbol of Florence and stands tall as a testament to Mr. Brunelleschi’s incredible skills and determination.
8. The Legend of Old Bafana
The Legend of Old Bafana
Reading Age: 4-8 years old
The Legend of Old Bafana is a beloved Italian Christmas tale that tells the story of an old woman named Befana. Every day, she has a grumpy attitude and completes her chore of sweeping her house from the inside to the road.
One day, however, she was interrupted by a procession on its way to pay homage to the newly-born Child King. Inspired by the child, Befana sets out on an adventure to find the Child King for herself and make sure he is celebrated with gifts.
She didn’t find him but continues to search and leaves gifts for kids along the way. It has been a tradition in Italy that every year on the night of January 5, families leave out food and wine for her long journey on her broom.
9. A Thousand Glass Flowers
A Thousand Glass Flowers
Reading Age: 4-8 years old
This story tells the tale of Marietta Barovier, a young girl living just outside of Venice in Murano. Her father was a master glassmaker and she had always been fascinated by the art form. Her father allowed her brothers to participate in the family business.
Due to the fact that she was a female, she was not given an opportunity until he eventually saw her passion and curiosity for the art of glassmaking.
When she entered the workshop, it was clear that she was a natural. After years of making glass, she came up with an inventive idea that caught the attention of the world: the rosetta bead. The rosetta bead contains a colorful and intricate design. It became a symbol of Marietta’s talent, determination, and passion for glass making.
10. Strega Nona
Strega Nona
Reading Age: 3-8 years old
Strega Nona is a beloved children’s book character who hails from Calabria, Italy. She’s known as the “Grandma Witch” and helps people with many problems. Since she is busy helping people, she offers Big Anthony a job to help around her house but warns him not to touch her special pasta pot.
Anthony can’t resist the temptation when he discovers how the pot works. When Strega Nona leaves for a day, he sings to the pot to produce an endless supply of pasta for the town. But, there is a problem! How will he ever get it to stop?
Fortunately for him, Strega Nona returns in time to rid the town of the piling pasta before it completely takes over! She shows Anthony there will always be consequences to one’s actions – both good and bad.
My kids absolutely love the Strega Nona books. They are some of the best children’s books about Italy.
11. There’s a Dolphin in the Grand Canal
There’s a Dolphin in the Grand Canal
Reading Age: 5-8 years old
Luca Buca was a person not having the best of days. Working at his family’s cafe, a visit to the Grand Canal felt like it would give him a chance to break up his mundane routine. But, Luca never thought he would find a dolphin in the Grand Canal!
Now on an unexpected adventure, Luca takes hold of the animal and they both take off past Venice’s iconic sights such as the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs. It is an unforgettable journey as Luca Buca sees the canals of Venice from an entirely different perspective with a new friend by his side.
This children’s book includes some Italian words with a glossary of pronunciations and translations in the back which makes it a great resource to teach your kids some Italian words.
12. I, Galileo
I, Galileo
Reading Age: 8-12 years old
I, Galileo is a great way to introduce young minds to the life of Galileo Galilei. Children will learn about his upbringing in northern Italy as well as Galileo’s scientific contributions as the “father of modern science”. Children will also learn about his struggles against those in power during this turbulent time when his new discoveries contradicted longstanding ideologies.
As he discovered knowledge through experimentation and observation, many of his ideas met fierce resistance from political and religious forces. Through I, Galileo, kids can see how this single man’s ambition and courage led him to innovations that shape our understanding of the physical world even today.
13. The Brave Cyclist: The True Story of a Holocaust Hero
The Brave Cyclist: The True Story of a Holocaust Hero
Reading Age: 9-12 years old
Gino Bartali is an inspirational figure for all ages. The children’s book The Brave Cyclist brings Gino’s incredible story to life. Growing up near Florence, Gino quickly developed a passion for cycling and became a renowned cyclist after winning the Tour de France competition in 1938.
Despite his success in professional cycling, what really sets him apart is his heroic actions during World War II. Two brave individuals in Assissi printed fake documents to help Jewish residents escape persecution. Gino helped in the efforts by riding multiple trips between Florence and Assissi, delivering photos and documents and returning with the fake printed documents for the Jews.
To this day, Gino is remembered as an awe-inspiring hero – one who risked his own safety to save countless innocent lives.
14. Galileo’s Leaning Tower Experiment: A Science Adventure
Galileo’s Leaning Tower Experiment: A Science Adventure
Reading Age: 8-12 years old
Galileo’s Leaning Tower Experiment introduces readers to the captivating world of scientific discovery through the eyes of a fictional character named Massimo. Set against the backdrop of historical accuracy, this engaging book chronicles Massimo’s encounter with the brilliant Galileo.
Inspired by Massimo, Galileo embarks on a groundbreaking experiment to explore the concept of free-falling objects from the leaning tower of Pisa. The story skillfully weaves together fiction and history, offering a fascinating insight into the collaborative nature of scientific advancement and showcasing how an ordinary moment can spark extraordinary ideas.
15. Stone Giant: Michelangelo’s David and How He Came to Be
Stone Giant: Michelangelo’s David and How He Came to Be
Reading Age: 6-9 years old
Entering the world of Michelangelo’s David has never been easier with the children’s book Stone Giant: Michelangelo’s David and How He Came to Be. This book features stunning illustrations with details on each page.
The book tells the remarkable story of how the infamous sculpture of David came to be, from its conception to its final installation at the heart of Florence. Throughout the book, lovely scenes of Florence are featured, immersing readers in the beauty of the Italian city.
With this book, children can embark on a journey through Michelangelo’s creative process, and learn about one of the world’s most famous sculptures in an accessible, engaging way.
16. Pizza For The Queen
Pizza For The Queen
Reading Age: 6-8 years old
Get ready to embark on a delicious adventure with Raffaele as he takes on the thrilling challenge of crafting the perfect pizza for Queen Margherita in the children’s book, Pizza For The Queen.
Set amidst the vibrant and bustling streets of Naples, Raffaele scours the city to gather only the finest ingredients for his culinary masterpiece. With every turn of the page, you’ll be able to feel the excitement and anticipation building as Raffaele puts his skills and creativity to the test.
In the end, his efforts prove to be worth it as he creates a pizza so good, it becomes the talk of the town and a local favorite still enjoyed today.
You can’t go wrong with a children’s book about Italy and pizza.
17. Pompeii: Lost and Found
Pompeii: Lost and Found
Reading Age: 4-7 years old
This captivating book delves into the historical significance of the famous eruption of Mount Vesuvius. It transports the reader back in time with its stunning illustrations that mimic the ancient frescoes of that era.
Through these mesmerizing visuals, the story vividly unfolds, providing a unique perspective on life in Pompeii before the catastrophic event. Alongside the portrayal of the town’s prosperous existence, the book also illustrates the heart-wrenching moments of destruction that forever altered the course of history.
This engaging narrative not only educates readers about the catastrophic eruption but also grants them a glimpse into the vibrant daily life of ancient Rome.
18. Zoe Sophia’s Scrapbook: An Adventure in Venice
Zoe Sophia’s Scrapbook: An Adventure in Venice
Reading Age: 5-8 years old
Join Zoe, from New York City, as she visits her aunt in Venice. The city beckons with gondola rides and culinary delicacies like squid ink pasta! Zoe shops along the Rialto Bridge, admires the art at the Accademia, and watches the master glassblowers on Murano.
No visit to Venice is complete without visiting Piazza San Marco – an awe-inspiring symbol of Venice’s proud history and culture. The nights become even more enchanting when Zoe attends a performance at La Fenice Opera. She doesn’t want to go home but has her scrapbook full of the wonderful memories made during her trip.
19. Orani: My Father’s Village
Orani: My Father’s Village
Reading Age: 4-8 years old
Orani: My Father’s Village is a charming and informative children’s book that tells the story of a young girl’s trip to her father’s ancestral home of Orani, which is located on the beautiful Italian island of Sardinia.
Readers are taken on an exploration of Orani and its lush landscape, historical monuments, and traditional customs. The inhabitants warmly welcome the girl in true Mediterranean fashion, and she in turn discovers how family ties define a unique sense of belonging and identity.
Final Thoughts on Children’s Books About Italy
Books such as these prove that it’s never too early to start immersing yourself in diverse international cultures. Not only can kids learn about the fascinating culture, language, and history of Italy — but they can also have fun while doing so through these children’s books about Italy.
- Here are some other resources for traveling with kids:
