Alessandro Montagnana, born in 1981, lives in Italy, in Trieste. He cultivated a passion for drawing, painting and poetry from a very young age. He graduated in naval engineering but at the same time developed the desire to dedicate himself to children's literature as an author and illustrator, a dream that has finally come true.

A fox and robin's burgeoning friendship propels this gently uplifting holiday tale. (...) When Chip's avian family returns to retrieve him, empathic text and art alike reference Lula's mixed emotions until friendship's bonds, visualized by hearts, supply further holiday magic. - Publishers Weekly.

A beautiful picture book about friendship that will be enjoyed all year, but especially during winter and Christmas - School Library Journal.

The muted tones of the illustrations perfectly capture a cold, winter scene, with pops of color for Chip and Lola and the warm love of their newfound family. This is a great cozy read for Christmas time with family and friends. - YA Books Central.

A fun and engaging read from cover to cover, this hardcover edition of ""The Heart of Winter"" from NubeOcho is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-8. - Midwest Book Review - Children's Book Watch.

Gray and white illustrations with bright red accents fill the pages of this heart-felt book that feels like a warm embrace. - Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children's and Young Adult Literature.

There are some key social-emotional learning opportunities with children to consider how Lula may be feeling and why, and Lula and Chip's flourishing friendship make this an excellent addition to a Christmas picture book collection. - The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books.

Publisher: Nubeocho

Pub date: 2025-08-26

Length: 36 pages