Books

First English edition. Translated from the Italian by Mary Alice Murray. Published by T. Fisher Unwin 1892, in light grey decorated cloth, titles in blue, small 8vo. End papers and all text block edges decorated to match. Illustrated with a tissue guarded frontispiece and drawings throughout the text by Enrico Mazzanti, misprinted as C. Mazzanti on the title page, a first issue point. Illustrated half title, title page printed in red and black. Cloth lightly toned, corners lightly bumped, internally clean and bright,some occasional cracking. Owned by the same family for three generations, gift inscriptions to this effect to the front free end paper. The story was first issued in magazine instalments in the Giornale dei bambini (Rome, 7 July 1881), 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.