School Library Journal Review

Gr 4 Up-This straightforward presentation of Carlo Collodi's imaginative classic charms and excites thanks to Vanessa Maroney's skillful narration. Collodi's playful cautionary tale chronicles the adventures of the titular character, a disobedient puppet who learns some tough lessons after he fails to listen to his creator, the giving puppeteer Geppetto. Maroney has fun recounting Pinocchio's many (sometimes bizarre) adventures, but never resorts to hamminess; she is both lively and understated. Pinocchio's series of mishaps involve encountering a deceitful fox, a cunning cat, a laughing serpent, mad assassins, and other characters who try to hang the puppet or fry him like a fish or threaten him with harm. By the end of the story, Pinocchio has learned what it means to be a real boy, honest and loving. This presentation will enchant young listeners. Those only familiar with the Disney version will enjoy being introduced to Collodi's original allegory about obedience and loyalty.-Brian E. Wilson, Evanston Public Library, IL (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.