SKU: 20080524

THE CLOWN OF GOD, an old story told and illustrated by Tomie dePaola, was published in 1978.

Publisher's Note: "Little Giovanni was poor and homeless, but he could do something wonderful. He could juggle - and the people of Sorrento marveled at his talents. One day he joined a group of traveling players, and it was not long before he was famous throughout Italy as the little juggler with the face of a clown whose flying sticks, plates, clubs, torches, and rainbow of colored balls delighted kings and townspeople alike. Wherever he went, the crowds would clap and cheer, especially for the shining golden ball he called the Sun in the Heavens. But the years passed and Giovanni grew old. His talents began to fail him, as did his many admirers. Leaving a village one day, with jeers and insults still ringing in his ears, he stopped beside a stream, washed away the face of the clown, carefully packed his sticks, plates, clubs, and colored balls - and gave up juggling forever. Returning to Sorrento, he slept in doorways and begged his food, as he had done as a child. One Christmas Eve, he took refuge in a church and watched in awe the procession of gifts for the Holy Child. When the beautiful music ended and the church became empty, old Giovanni hesitantly approached the statue of the Madonna and her Child to offer the only gift he had. The miracle that occurred will deeply touch the readers of this ancient legend, stunningly recast in words and pictures by Caldecott Honor Book artist Tomie dePaola. It is a masterpiece of artistry."

8 3/4" W x 11 1/4" H, 48 pages, All ages, ISBN 978-0-15-219175-7

This book will be sent autographed "Tomie (year)." However, a note will be sent to you after you've purchased the book to ask if you'd like the autograph personalized.