Quick Take

In this elegant tale, Tomie dePaola imagines how the Days of the Blackbird in northern Italy came to be. Gemma and her father, the Duke of Gennaro, live in a house with a courtyard that fills with birds of all colors through the spring and summer. When the Duke falls ill at the end of summer, Gemma begs the birds to stay to raise his spirits with their song. However, as snow and fierce winds begin to swirl down on the village, the birds must fly south to stay warm, and eventually only one loyal bird remains.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Days of the Blackbird

Introduction

In the enchanting tale of "Days of the Blackbird," Tomie dePaola takes readers on a journey to the picturesque village of Sabbia in Piedmont, Italy. Set against the backdrop of the coldest days of the year, this story weaves together themes of love, loyalty, and music. With its rich illustrations and captivating narrative, "Days of the Blackbird" has garnered praise from readers young and old. In this article, we will delve into the book's author, analyze common opinions, and explore the reasons why readers recommend and do not recommend this captivating tale.

About Tomie dePaola

Tomie dePaola (1934-2020) was a renowned children's book author and illustrator known for his imaginative stories and vivid illustrations. With a career spanning over five decades, dePaola published more than 270 books, including classics such as "26 Fairmount Avenue," "Strega Nona," and "Meet the Barkers." His work has received numerous accolades, including the Caldecott Honor Award, the Newbery Honor Award, the Laura Ingalls Wilder Award, and the New Hampshire Governor's Arts Award of Living Treasure. dePaola's ability to create whimsical and heartwarming tales has endeared him to generations of readers.

Analysis of Views

A moving story of love and loyalty: Readers have praised "Days of the Blackbird" for its poignant portrayal of love and loyalty. The story resonates with readers who appreciate tales that evoke emotions and showcase the power of human connections. The bond between Gemma and her father, as well as the loyalty displayed by La Colomba, has touched many readers.
Beautiful illustrations: dePaola's signature style shines through in "Days of the Blackbird," with its sumptuous illustrations that transport readers to the heart of Italy. Readers appreciate the detailed depictions of the Italian mountains, courtyards, and interiors, which enhance the storytelling experience. The illustrations add depth to the narrative and elevate the overall quality of the book.
A celebration of nature and music: The book celebrates nature and music, with its focus on birds and their songs. Readers appreciate how dePaola incorporates these elements into the story, creating a harmonious blend of natural beauty and artistic expression. The singing birds serve as a metaphor for hope, comfort, and resilience in the face of adversity.
A timeless tale: Many readers find "Days of the Blackbird" to be a timeless tale that transcends generations. The story's themes of love, loyalty, and hope resonate with both children and adults, making it a book that can be enjoyed by all ages. The universal appeal of the story has contributed to its enduring popularity.
A connection to cultural traditions: The book offers readers a glimpse into Italian culture, with its references to local legends and traditions. Readers appreciate how dePaola incorporates these elements into the story, providing a deeper understanding of Italian heritage and customs. The inclusion of Italian words and their definitions adds an extra layer of cultural immersion for readers.

Reasons for Recommendation

Heartwarming storytelling: "Days of the Blackbird" offers a heartwarming narrative that touches readers' hearts. The story's themes of love, loyalty, and music resonate with readers, making it a recommended read for those seeking emotional depth in their children's books.
Beautiful illustrations: dePaola's stunning illustrations elevate the reading experience, transporting readers to Italy with their vivid depictions of landscapes and interiors. The illustrations add visual appeal to the story and enhance its overall impact on readers.
Celebration of nature and music: The book celebrates nature and music through its portrayal of birds and their songs. Readers appreciate how dePaola weaves these elements into the story, creating a harmonious blend that adds depth to the narrative. The celebration of nature and music makes "Days of the Blackbird" a recommended read for those who appreciate these themes in children's literature.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of engagement: Some readers find that "Days of the Blackbird" lacks engagement compared to other books by Tomie dePaola. While they appreciate the story's themes and illustrations, they feel that it does not captivate them as much as other books by the author. This lack of engagement may deter some readers from recommending this particular book.
Length: Due to its brevity, some readers feel that "Days of the Blackbird" is more suitable for adult fans of Tomie dePaola rather than children who may require longer stories to maintain their interest. While the book's length is not a significant drawback, it may not appeal to all young readers who prefer longer narratives with more complex plotlines.

Conclusion

"Days of the Blackbird" by Tomie dePaola is a captivating tale that combines themes of love, loyalty, music, and cultural traditions set against the backdrop of Italy's coldest days. With its beautiful illustrations and heartwarming narrative, this book has garnered praise from readers young and old alike. While some readers find it lacking in engagement or prefer longer stories for children, others recommend it for its timeless appeal and celebration of nature and music. Whether you are a fan of Tomie dePaola or simply seeking a heartwarming read that transports you to Italy's picturesque villages, "Days of the Blackbird" is a book worth exploring.