Yours, Befana: A Letter from the Winter Witch

Heed the words of Befana the winter witch, bringer of spring and bearer of gifts. Wrapped in her warmest cloak and riding her broomstick, she flies from home to home each year on January 6, filling the stockings of expectant children as she goes.  

But do not take her generosity for granted. She sees all and knows all. Children who have been disobedient or unkind are punished with coal and ash, while those who have been kind and fair are rewarded with sweet fruits, nuts, and the promise of a bright new spring.  

Translated from its original Italian by Genni Gunn, this wonderfully creative book takes the form of a lilting and poetic letter from Befana addressed to the children of the world. It celebrates women in folklore and challenges perceptions of stereotypical witch characters. 

Unlike Father Christmas, or as Befana refers to him the “clumsy oaf dressed in red”, she does not appear as a particularly jolly, cosy character. Instead, she talks of the ageless power of nature and the seasons, as well as the magical possibilities of the time between the light and dark. 

Beretta’s illustrations are a standout, and they leap off the page with their neon orange highlights and cool, muted minimalism. They would lend themselves well to art activities based on their unique style.  

A section at the end of the book is dedicated to some of the wider folkloric history of witches in Europe, which would work well as a resource to inspire creative writing or to spark a history project.