Friday, July 07, 2006

Pizza for the Queen

Castaldo, Nancy. Pizza for the Queen. Illustrated by Melisande Potter. Holiday House, 2005. ISBN 0823418650. Ages 4-8.

“Magnifico!” exclaims Queen Margherita as she enjoys a slice of pizza made especially for her by Raffaele Esposito. Based on a true story, Castaldo magnificently describes the story of Raffaele, the finest pizza maker in Napoli, who is requested by the queen to make a pizza. Raffaele searches the city for the optimal ingredients for the perfect pizza. With inspiration from the red, white, and green of the Italian flag, Raffaele creates a pizza fit for a queen, appropriately dubbed “Pizza Margherita.” This delectable story is enhanced with Potter’s vivacious illustrations that capture the appetizing quest of Raffaele. With close attention to detail, the intricate pictures are able to express the Italian culture in the late 1800’s. The story, as well as the recipe included in the book for “Pizza Margherita,” will satisfy children’s appetites everywhere.

This book could be used as part of a social studies lesson about Italy. It could also be used to learn about the Italian culture.

Lisa Kahle, Early Education Major, Junior, BGSU

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