‘My Nonno Loves’ is a warm-hearted, loving story with each page bringing a smile and stirring our own memories of family get togethers. This is the story of Nonno, a special grandfather who is warm and witty as he shares fascinating bits of his life with his granddaughter.

This is a unique story experience because the creators are sisters and this is the story of their grandfather. Thus, we are given a doubly authentic portrayal of an Italian family. Here are the simple things—often those recognized by a youngster but perhaps unnoticed by an adult. Each double page begins with ‘My nonno is’ and reveals in words and images the special tie between the girl and her grandfather. ‘My Nonno Loves’ is a clear homage to a man who is everything to his granddaughter.

The illustrations reveal many details of this close-knit and warm family life as members dance, eat, tell jokes and stories, sing songs and dance together. The language is often highly visual, for example, Nonna ‘dances like wobbly spaghetti’ while the family ‘hum and giggle’ along as nonno sings Italian songs from his youth. Nonno does not understand all that his grandchild is saying and vice versa, but there is plenty of love and sharing between young and old in both words and images.

Nonno’s collection of treasured objects reveals a fascinating person as his favourites are on display across a double page spread. Another image of this close-knit relationship appears in the garden shed where Nonno helps his grandchild create a wind chime using seashells. Every page oozes with love and family devotion. The story’s perfect ending comes too soon as the granddaughter says, ‘I know that, most of all, my nonno loves me.’

Adelle Frittitta engages in a Q&A on the inspiration for this picture book (her grandfather). She reveals why she chose a child’s perspective to tell this story, and which moments she wanted to share and why. Working with her sister for this book enabled them to share both common and different memories. The author reveals that ‘this story captures the warmth, humour, and rhythms of our Italian family life, and the collaboration between me and my sister adds a special layer: we share the same memories, so the illustrations feel deeply personal and authentic.’

Italian traditions abound here as we experience breakfast, lunch, and shared moments in the kitchen, the shed, the garden, family meals, and other togethers. Displayed here are the joys of a very close-knit family. Illustrated by Adelle’s sister, Claudia, both text and images capture loving relationships within this family.

1. Celebrations
2. Cross Cultural Relations
3. Cultural Traditions
4. Empathy
5. Family
6. Friendship
7. Kindness
8. Relationships
9. Respect
10. Social Life