Author: Carlo Collodi
Publisher: Collins Classics
Publication Date: 2012 (1883)
Pages: 192
Format: Paperback
Genre: Classic
Source: Gift
The story of Pinocchio has remained one of the best-loved children's tales for over a century. However, the original 1883 novel about the adventures of the mischievous marionette on his quest to become a real boy began as a sophisticated story for both adults and children, and includes political satire, slapstick humour and questions about the role of tradition and society. From the moment Geppetto decides to carve himself a son from a magical piece of wood, the tale lurches from one fantastical episode to another, in one of the most enchanting fables of all time.
I never read Pinocchio as a child, but naturally I know the Disney movie, so I was interested to pick up the source material and assess the differences. As you might expect, the book is somewhat darker, with Pinocchio far less likeable than in the movie. At the end of the day, this is a morality tale for children, showing why they should study and obey their parents. But nevertheless, it is an easy read with fun (if sometimes dark) imagery, and I enjoyed making my way from cover to cover. This is not a book I fell in love with and would want to read again and again, but I'm glad I finally got around to it, and if, like me, you enjoy crossing classics of your list, this is one you won't want to miss.
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