Thomas Anthony "Tomie" dePaola was an American writer and illustrator who created more than 260 children's books. He received the Children's Literature Legacy Award for his lifetime contribution to American children's literature in 2011.
The show featured children's book author Tomie dePaola and his Muppet friend Gabe the squirrel, encouraging children to make their own stories in a variety of media. In each episode, Tomie told a story featuring his storybook characters Strega Nona, Big Anthony and Bambolona. Gabe visited The Animal Band, a group of woodland creatures, including a rabbit on drums, a weasel on guitar, a penguin on bass, and a raccoon on keytar. Each episode also featured a visit with a guest storyteller or two (o...