Tomie dePaola was an American author and illustrator known for his children's books. Born on September 15, 1934, in Meriden, Connecticut, he created over 260 books during his career, many of which feature themes from his Italian heritage and childhood experiences. His most famous work, Strega Nona, tells the story of a kind witch and her magical pasta pot. DePaola's distinctive artistic style often includes bright colors and simple shapes, making his illustrations appealing to young readers. He received numerous awards for his contributions to children's literature, including the prestigious Caldecott Honor and the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award. He passed away on March 30, 2020.