Betsy F. reviewed on 12/1/2008 + 4 more book reviews

Once upon a time a block of wood becomes the puppet, Pinocchio. While one may recognize the story and its characters, this translation tells a much darker story. Pinocchio runs away and kills the talking cricket! On his way to school, he meets a dishonorable fox and cat, who try to murder Pinocchio. Fortunately, the Blue Fairy tries to protect and guide him and suggests he be more obedient. In spite of this advice, Pinocchio joins his school mate, Lampwick in Play Land where the puppet turns into a donkey. When he is thrown into the sea, he changes back to a puppet and reunites with his father. He may begin to realize how he can become a real boy by helping his father. Many readers are familiar with Pinocchios story but this translation bluntly tells the events. Beautiful watercolor and black and white illustrations accompany and perhaps soften the story. Unfortunately, these illustrations do not follow the story precisely which could be distracting. If one can tolerate the puppets obstinacy and can not be distracted by the illustrations placement, this fantasy could appeal to middle and high school readers.

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