10 Wonderful Books for Kids to Discover Italy and Its Culture
Italy is a country full of fascinating stories, rich history, and timeless traditions—and what better way to introduce children to Italian culture than through books? From ancient fables and legends to historical tales and beloved characters, here are ten fantastic books for young readers who want to explore Italy in all its charm.
1. Aesop’s Fables
By Aesop, illustrated by Pat Stewart
Ages 4 to 8
This classic collection of short moral stories has delighted children for centuries. While Aesop himself was Greek, his fables have deeply influenced European storytelling traditions, including those in Italy.
2. The Adventures of Pinocchio: The Story of a Puppet
By Carlo Collodi, illustrated by Iassen Ghiuselev
Ages 9 to 12
Meet Italy’s most famous puppet! This original version of Pinocchio, written by Italian author Carlo Collodi, is filled with imagination, adventure, and life lessons.
3. Pompeii
By Peter Connolly
Ages 9 to 12
Through detailed illustrations and vivid storytelling, this book brings to life the ancient city of Pompeii before and after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
4. The Buried City of Pompeii: What It Was Like When Vesuvius Exploded (I Was There)
By Shelley Tanaka, illustrated by Greg Ruhl
Ages 9 to 12
Told from the perspective of a young eyewitness, this book explores one of the most dramatic moments in Roman history.
5. Vulca the Etruscan (Journey Through Time Series)
By Roberta Angeletti and Beatrice Masini
Ages 8 to 12
Set in the time before the Roman Empire, this beautifully illustrated book introduces children to the mysterious Etruscan civilization of central Italy.
6. Leonardo and the Flying Boy
By Laurence Anholt
Ages 8 to 14
Follow a young apprentice as he learns from the brilliant mind of Leonardo da Vinci. A perfect mix of art, history, and science for curious minds.
7. Bravo, Zan Angelo!: A Commedia Dell’Arte Tale With Story & Pictures
By Niki Daly
Ages 10+
This theatrical tale dives into Commedia dell’Arte, a traditional Italian form of theater known for its masked characters and improvisation.
8. The Legend of Old Befana
By Tomie De Paola
Ages 4 to 10
A heartwarming story about Italy’s holiday witch who delivers gifts to children on Epiphany Eve. This book blends Italian folklore and holiday magic.
9. Big Anthony: His Story
By Tomie De Paola
Ages 4 to 8
This humorous spin-off from the beloved Strega Nona series follows Big Anthony’s childhood adventures, offering a taste of rural Italian life.
10. Opera Cat
By Tess Weaver, illustrated by Andrea Wesson
Ages 4 to 8
Meet Alma, a cat with an incredible talent for opera. This story combines music, drama, and Italian culture in a fun and memorable way.
Explore More with Dinolingo
If these stories spark your child’s curiosity about Italy, language, or culture, you can take it further with Italian lessons for kids by Dinolingo. Designed for ages 2 to 14, Dinolingo helps kids learn Italian through fun stories, songs, videos, and games—perfect for making language learning an adventure.
Let the journey begin—one book (and one word) at a time!
