The Legend of Old Befana: A Heartwarming Tale of Love and Redemption

Once upon a time, in a small Italian village, lived a kind-hearted old woman named Befana. Her face was wrinkled with age, and her hair was as grey as the winter sky. But behind her weathered appearance, Befana held a heart of pure gold.

Every year, as the Christmas season approached, Befana would don her tattered apron and begin preparing gifts for children. She would spend hours carefully crafting dolls, toys, and sweets, all with the hope of bringing joy to the little ones. Befana believed that every child deserved happiness, and she was determined to deliver it to their doorstep.

Legend has it that Befana's story began many centuries ago when three wise men set out on a long journey. They were following a bright star that led them to the birthplace of a baby who would change the world. These wise men, also known as the Magi, carried precious gifts for the newborn King.

The Legend of Old Befana: An Italian Christmas Story

by Tomie dePaola (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8796 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE

Befana, who lived on the outskirts of Bethlehem, saw the bright star and the travelers passing through her village. She was intrigued by their purpose and decided to join them. She gathered together small tokens of love and adoration, hoping to present them to the child as a gesture of her pure heart.

However, Befana soon realized that she had missed the wise men and the newborn king. Although she had missed the chance to meet the baby Jesus, her intention to bring joy to children remained unchanged. Befana vowed to continue her search, roaming from house to house on the Twelfth Night of Christmas, leaving presents behind for every child she encountered.

As time went on, the story of Befana's endless search for the Christ child spread throughout the land. She became known as the magical giver of gifts, known to the Italians as "La Befana." Her image adorned every house during the holiday season, a symbol of hope and love.

Children eagerly awaited the arrival of Befana on the night of January 5th, leaving out stockings in the hopes of receiving a special gift. Befana would fly through the night sky on her old broomstick, slipping down chimneys to deliver her presents.

As the years passed, the legend of Befana grew and evolved. She became a mythical figure, intertwined with Italian folklore. It is said that Befana visits every house in Italy, leaving gifts for the good children and coal for the naughty ones. Though her appearance may seem unconventional, with her haggard appearance and ragged clothes, Befana is adored by all.

The story of Befana serves as a reminder of the power of kindness and the magic of Christmas. It teaches us that it is never too late to share love and happiness, regardless of our circumstances. Befana's selflessness and determination resonate with people of all ages, inspiring generations to keep the spirit of giving alive.

Today, the legend of Befana lives on, celebrated with gusto by the Italian people. Festivals and parades are held in her honor, as children gather to hear the stories of this beloved old lady. Families come together to share special meals and exchange gifts, keeping the traditions of Befana alive.

So, this holiday season, let us remember the tale of Old Befana and the joy she brings. Let us embrace the spirit of giving and spread love and happiness to all those around us. Perhaps, if we look closely, we might catch a glimpse of Befana herself, flying through the night sky on her magical broomstick, bringing joy to the hearts of children everywhere.

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The Legend of Old Befana: An Italian Christmas Story

by Tomie dePaola (Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8796 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	32 pages

FREE

In this beloved classic picture book, Tomie dePaola retells and illustrates an Italian Christmas folk tale, breathing warmth and humanity into the character of the lonely Old Befana and her endless search for the Christ Child.

Every morning and every afternoon, Old Befana sweeps with her broom. “Cranky old lady,” the children say. “She is always sweeping!” Sweep, sweep, sweep.

But when a brilliant star glows in the eastern sky one night, and Old Befana encounters the glorious procession of three kings on their way to Bethlehem, her world will never be the same.