Carlo Collodi (1826–1890)

There was mention somewhere of the original Italian story of Pinocchio here on LT, probably in conjunction with discussion of the del Toro movie version, and I realized I had never read it, so I checked this lavish volume out of the library. As a physical object, it's gorgeous. Large format, exquisitely illustrated by Robert Ingpen, pages so thick you never believe you're turning just one at a time, bright red ribbon place marker... If only I could have enjoyed the story. It's not just that show more it doesn't jive with the Disney version; that on its own is a positive. It's just too choppy, with no internal logic to it except for the over-explicated lesson about what happens to naughty children who don't obey their parents and pay attention to their teachers, which even a WOODEN HEADED PUPPET should have taken to heart long about the half-way point. There's very little charm to it that doesn't come from Ingpen's imagination, no real suspense, artificial cliff-hanger chapter breaks. Translation issues? Possibly. I understand it was written in segments, for serial publication. It shows. I don't see it appealing to any of the young'uns, past or present, that I know well. show less

I read this book with my family for the first time recently--we'd all seen the classic Disney film many times, of course. The original Italian work is, of course, a bit darker and complex with an Alice in Wonderland feel and vibe to it--far more characters and worlds here in Pinnochio's adventures on the road to becoming a real boy than the movie captures. The overall theme explores the consequences that befall an otherwise innocent animated doll for dishonesty and irresponsible choices made show more to indulge rather than take on the responsibilities and duties of getting older (or in this case, being a real person). I found this both more interesting and more entertaining than the familiar screen adaptation, and a fun book for an extended read with one's kids and family. show less

The Disney Movie, Pinocchio, was my first exposure to the character and the story when I was a child. It terrified me. I acquired this edition in Florence some years back and hadn't read it until now. To put it mildly, it makes the Disney version look like Toy Story. Granted, it is well-written (even in translation) and beautifully illustrated. And I do appreciate its allegorical themes and hero's quest motifs. That being said, Pinocchio kills the cricket (aka Jiminy in my childhood memory) show more with a hammer; the marioneteer wants to burn him alive; Pinocchio falls asleep by the fire and burns his feet off; the fox and the cat hang him from a tree to die. Bad boys turning into Donkeys is hardly the worst of it.

Seriously, I think it is one of the best (still terrifying) examples of episodic literature ever written,
with timeless characters and a strong moral compass. I am sorry I waited so long to read this version, and I plan to seek out others. show less

There's nothing subtle about “The Adventures of Pinocchio” by Carlo Collidi. First published as a book in 1883 — installments were printed in an Italian magazine for children previously — the story tells how a disobedient puppet becomes a boy (after first becoming a donkey). Today more people are familiar with film versions or Golden Book versions than the novel itself — and for good reason. The tale is just too heavy-handed for modern audiences of whatever age.

Time and again, show more Pinocchio promises to obey instructions, go to school, study hard, etc., then becomes distracted. He yields to temptation. Each time he does, disaster strikes. He is cheated. He is taken prisoner. He is nearly eaten. He is swallowed by a fish. He is, as mentioned, turned into a donkey. And of course, when he lies, his nose grows to uncommon lengths.

The book's lessons are made clear and obvious to any reader. The golden rule works best for all. Those who disobey will get in trouble. Liars pay for their sins. Yet one wonders whether Collidi might actually have been teaching just the opposite of the intended lessons. Mischievous little boys might notice:

1. Some kind soul invariably rescues Pinocchio and gives him another chance.

2. Once Pinocchio becomes a good boy, his adventures end. show less