Books

COLLODI, Carlo. The Story of a Puppet or the Adventures of Pinocchio. Translated from the Italian by M. A. Murray. Illustrated by C. Mazzanti. Published by London, T. Fisher Unwin, 1892. First English edition. Small octavo. Half-title and title printed in red and black, frontispiece and illustrations throughout by C. Mazzanti. Original patterned cloth printed in blue, patterned endpapers, and edges to match. Housed in a custom navy blue morocco solander case by the Heritage Bindery, gilt-stamped on the spine. Cloth very lightly toned, one corner bumped, internally clean and white with no previous owner's notations. The London and New York editions are from the same sheets and both dated 1892. First issued in magazine instalments in the Giornale dei bambini (Rome, 7 July 1881 on), Pinocchio was first published in book form in 1883 as Le Avventure di Pinocchio: storia di un burattino, and quickly became a best-seller, though Collodi (real name Carlo Lorenzini) died in 1890 before witnessing its international success. "Almost nothing else in children's literature equals Pinocchio for wildness of invention" (Carpenter & Prichard, Oxford Companion to Children's Literature).

The classic children's novel that tells the story of a wooden puppet named Pinocchio, created by the carpenter Geppetto. Upon being carved, Pinocchio magically comes to life and embarks on a series of adventures, driven by his dream of becoming a real boy. Pinocchio is curious and often disobedient, leading him into various troubles. Despite the guidance of the Talking Cricket, who acts as his conscience, Pinocchio frequently falls into mischief. His nose grows longer each time he lies, serving as a physical manifestation of his dishonesty. Throughout the story, Pinocchio encounters a host of memorable characters, including the deceitful Fox and Cat, who trick him out of his money, and the kind Fairy with Turquoise Hair, who helps him multiple times and acts as a maternal figure. Pinocchio’s journey is one of self-discovery and moral education, highlighting the virtues of honesty, hard work, and the importance of education. Key episodes include Pinocchio’s transformation into a donkey after being lured to the Land of Toys, his escape from the belly of a giant fish, and his repeated attempts to reunite with Geppetto, who is consistently loving and forgiving. In the end, after a series of trials and personal growth, Pinocchio’s selflessness and bravery lead to his transformation into a real boy, symbolizing his moral and personal development. The novel is celebrated for its rich moral lessons, engaging narrative, and whimsical characters. Collodi’s tale has left a lasting impact on children’s literature and has been adapted into numerous films, television shows, and stage productions, the most famous being Disney’s 1940 animated film. "The Adventures of Pinocchio" remains a timeless story about the journey to becoming one’s true self.