Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- Strega Nona seems like a wise woman. Was she wise to trust Big Anthony with her house (and her magic pasta pot) when she went away? Why or why not?
- Is Big Anthony a fool? What does it mean to be a fool? Why does Big Anthony make the mistake he makes? How does Tomie dePaola describe Big Anthony the very first time he is mentioned in the story? Why do you think dePaola describes him this way?
- How do you think the rest of the villagers feel about Strega Nona? Explain. Do their opinions of Strega Nona change from the beginning of the book to the end? Why or why not?
- How do you think the rest of the villagers feel about Big Anthony? Explain. Do their opinions of Big Anthony change from the beginning of the book to the end? Why or why not?
- What does Strega Nona mean when she says, "the punishment must fit the crime" (33)? Is that important? Why or why not? And does the punishment fit the crime in this case? Explain.
- Should Strega Nona trust Big Anthony again? Why or why not? Would you? Explain.