In the first full-length study in English of Carlo Collodi's The Adventures of Pinocchio, the authors show how the checkered history of the puppet illuminates social change from the pre World War One era to the present. The authors argue that most Americans know a trivialized, diluted version of the tale, one such source is Disney's perennial classic. The authors also discover that when adults are introduced to the 'real' story, they often deem it as unsuitable for children. Placing the puppet in a variety of contexts, the authors chart the progression of this childhood tale that has frequently undergone dramatic revisions to suit America's idea of children's literature.

In the first full-length study in English of Carlo Collodi's The Adventures of Pinocchio, the authors show how the checkered history of the puppet illuminates social change from the pre World War One era to the present. The authors argue that most Americans know a trivialized, diluted version of the tale, one such source is Disney's perennial classic. The authors also discover that when adults are introduced to the 'real' story, they often deem it as unsuitable for children. Placing the puppet in a variety of contexts, the authors chart the progression of this childhood tale that has frequently undergone dramatic revisions to suit America's idea of children's literature.

Throughout the world Pinocchio is acknowledged as a rich tale about growing up and self-discovery, an exciting adventure for young children, and a chance to reflect, recall, and understand for adults. In addition to providing the most complete list of English language Pinnochio editions thus far compiled, each of the more than 850 entries in this catalogue is fully described, distinguishing first editions from later releases. Compiled by means of actual copies, all citations state the source of the copy described. Each entry consists of full bibliographic credits, identification of the version, physical description of the volume, occasional other notes, and then traces the edition (when a reprint or reissue) back to its original source. A synopsis is added for Pinocchio continuations. Entries being listed by year of release, this carefully constructed reference is designed for ready access by date, publisher index, name index, and synoptic table. In addition to other information they provide, the notes on publishers are particularly useful for interpreting printing marks, identifying changes in cover, title page, etc., and establishing various series dates and prices. This unique and comprehensive catalogue examines many previously unrecorded editions and sorts out whole assemblies of apparently similar volumes in a completely accessible format. Limiting Disney versions to 1939-40, the catalogue also includes plays, films, radio program, TV shows, and other renditions. It will be an immensely useful resource for book dealers, libraries, and collectors of children's literature.