AS a child, Leo Politi loved to draw. He knew he'd be an artist when he grew up. It was a dream that never changed. However, he didn't know then that he would become famous as a writer and illustrator of children's picture books.
In all, Politi wrote 20 books for children and four for adults. He also illustrated many books for other authors. Many of his stories were set right here in Los Angeles. In 1950, he won the Caldecott Medal for "Song of the Swallows." This award is given annually to the artist of the most distinguished children's book. He was the first Californian to receive it.
Leo Politi was born in Fresno in 1908. Leo's parents and grandparents had moved there from Italy. His grandparents bought a small vineyard, but Leo's papa bought and sold horses. Although the Politi farm was small, the children often had chores to do -- horses and chickens to feed or eggs to collect. But day after day, in the hot sunshine, Leo and his sister Marie Therese rode bareback on a small Shetland pony their father had given them. And Leo always found time to draw.
When Leo was 6, Papa announced that the family was moving to Italy. The horses and ranch must be sold. Leo thought his heart would break when he heard the news. Although Leo's carefree life on the farm had ended, an exciting adventure lay ahead.
For the journey, Leo dressed in an Indian costume. He'd worn it every day since Papa gave it to him. In his mind he \o7was\f7 an Indian. The Politis traveled by train eastward across the United States, crossing deserts, mountains and grasslands. When they reached New York, they explored the huge city, then boarded an ocean liner for the long voyage to Italy.
Tuesday: What will life be like in Italy?
