24 steps to Christmas

A magical Advent journey of 24 short stories to warm young hearts and guide families towards the wonder of Christmas.

This book invites readers to count down to the most anticipated moment of the year with a gentle, story-by-story rhythm.

Each of the 24 enchanting tales opens up a world where children, kings and queens, witches, talking animals, rivers flowing backwards, multi-coloured leaves, magical stones, and musical instruments fill the pages with wonder and delight. Whether read alone or shared with loved ones by firelight, these narratives illuminate the long winter nights leading up to Christmas Eve. In the final story, a humble donkey’s gaze reveals the timeless images of the Nativity; as the comet appears, a breath of life sparks through the heroes of the earlier tales, reminding us that every story holds a spark of magic.

A celebration of imagination, warmth, and festive anticipation, perfect for families and young readers alike.

Key Selling Points:

– Advent storytelling: twenty-four magical tales create a poetic daily countdown to Christmas.

– Enchanting worlds: from talking animals to backwards rivers, each story unfolds in a fable-like and atmospheric setting.

– Shared reading experience: designed to be read alone or together, making it perfect for cosy family evenings.

Author & Illustator:

Silvia Vecchini

One of Italy’s most esteemed and versatile writers. Her work spans from poetry to graphic novels and picture books, earning her numerous awards (including the Andersen Prize and the Strega Prize “Ragazze e Ragazzi”). She is a master at exploring the inner world of children with grace and philosophical depth.

Lucia de Marco

Lucia de Marco, known online as “Lucy in the Paper Sky,” is an Italian illustrator and pattern designer based in Milan. Originally from Bari, she trained in Art History and traditional painting before graduating from the MiMaster Illustrazione in 2019. Her work, created by combining watercolour, gouache, and digital techniques, is distinguished by a delicate, poetic style.