Carlo Collodi Minute

August 20 • Carlo Collodi

August 20 Heritage Minute honoring Carlo Collodi, author of Pinocchio and master storyteller
Author of Pinocchio and Master Storyteller
Listen to the Carlo Collodi Heritage Minute

Carlo Collodi, born Carlo Lorenzini in Florence in 1826, became one of Italy’s most beloved storytellers. A journalist, satirist, and writer, he used wit and imagination to explore society, education, and human character.

His masterpiece, The Adventures of Pinocchio, first appeared in serial form before becoming one of the most widely read children’s books in the world. Through the journey of a wooden puppet longing to become a real boy, Collodi examined honesty, responsibility, temptation, courage, and the growth of conscience.

Collodi died in 1890, but Pinocchio has never stopped travelling. His story continues to inspire readers, artists, filmmakers, and families across cultures, preserving a timeless message about learning, love, and becoming fully human.

Through Pinocchio, Collodi gave the world a timeless journey from impulse and error toward honesty, love, and humanity.