This Christmas Day tale involves old Saint Nick with his forest friends, their love for each other, the children around the world, and their appreciation of the Earth. Book 2 in the Magic of Old St. Nick Christmas series, this children's story is based in Italy and centered around old Saint Nick and his Redbird friend returning home from his annual trip around the world bringing joy to those near. Nick is delighted to find his forest friends waiting for him, eager to hear about his travels and exchange gifts. "Book and illustrations look beautiful! I gave them as gifts to my grandsons!" -Melinda G. "Very nice story with good messages for a younger generation." -Karin F. "There is joy in making Christmas memories reading these books with my granddaughters." -Madge G. "Purchased for my 7 year old twin godchildren. They adored this clever, yet fun story. High quality production." -Nico S. "Great gift for my grandson. The Santa doll from the Vietri website is beautiful and big. Love the Buon Appetito book, especially!!!" -Judith B. AUTHOR: SUSAN GRAVELY is the author of five children’s books and two acclaimed entertaining cookbooks which have both been praised as heartfelt tributes to the joys of gathering around the table. Gravely, along with her mother and sister, founded VIETRI, a lifestyle brand offering handcrafted Italian tabletop and home and garden accessories in 1983. Gravely served as the CEO and Creative Director for VIETRI for over 40 years. Since retiring in 2024, she has devoted her time to writing, traveling, and spending time with loved ones. She lives in Chapel Hill, NC with her husband, Bill, and dog, Franco. ILLUSTRATOR : ALESSANDRO TADDEI began sketching when he was a little boy and went on to study art and design in Montelupo, Italy. He became a painter, quickly reaching maestro status. He collaborated with VIETRI, the largest importer of Italian ceramics in America, to create the beloved Old St. Nick dinnerware collection, and then began on the Magic of Old St. Nick children’s book series with VIETRI founder, Susan Gravely. His illustrations are whimsical and captivating, and he enjoys the creative process from the earliest brainstorming sessions to the final, finishing brushstrokes.