Pizza for the Queen
Nancy Castaldo is a lucky woman–her birthday falls on International Pizza Day! Such a fortunate coincidence combined with her love of pizza led her to write an absolutely charming “history” of the world’s favorite pizza–the Margherita. The picture book, ideal for those aged 4-8, opens in Napoli, Italy, in 1889. Italy’s queen, Margherita, has heard of the tasty concoctions made by Raffaele Esposito in his pizzeria, Pietro e Basta Cosi, and wants to find out what all the fuss is about! After racking his brain for the perfect topping combinations, Raffaele sets out to collect the ingredients for the perfect pizza. Disaster strikes and, inspired by the Italian flag, he ends up making her a simple pie of red sauce, basil and mozzarella.
This lovely look at the most famous episode in pizza history is made ever more delectable by the whimsical illustrations by Melisande Potter. The story, renowned among pizza devotees, is well-written and engaging to youngsters. Overall, this one is a delicious tidbit sure to make you reach for the delivery menus!
