Books Like Big Anthony: His Story
Families who loved Big Anthony: His Story by Tomie dePaola often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Big Anthony: His Story by Tomie dePaola often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is feeling discouraged by their own 'clumsiness' or a perceived inability to follow directions. It is the perfect antidote to the shame that often follows well-meaning mistakes. The story follows Big Anthony from his birth through his accident-prone youth in Italy, long before he becomes Strega Nona's assistant. While Anthony constantly forgets to 'pay attention' and causes comical disasters like overflowing pasta or falling walls, the narrative remains deeply affectionate. Parents will appreciate how it frames neurodivergent traits not as failures of character, but as a journey toward finding the right environment. It is a gentle, humorous hug for the child who feels like they are always in trouble for things they didn't mean to do.
