Everyone thinks their Nonna is the best Nonna. And they’re right!

This children’s book is a heartwarming and nostalgic homage to everyone’s favourite grandmother: Nonna.

Written by Nonna Life founder, Ariane Laezza, with illustrations by Hiruni Kariyawasam, this book was inspired by Ariane’s experiences with her own Nonna and aunts growing up in Montreal, as well as the older Italian women she crosses paths with daily in her Toronto neighbourhood of Corso Italia.

A certain “Nonna aesthetic” is seen in women of this generation of Italian immigrants: a floral dress, slip-on sandals, gold jewellery, short hair and oversized glasses. The “Nonna” of today may not dress like this anymore and may not approach traditions in the same way, but this book is specific to a certain time, certain feeling and certain experience. This book intends to playfully commemorate through a nostalgic lens, referencing cultural markers while being respectful in representation.

A children’s book also to be loved by adults!