The Adventures of Pinocchio - Carlo Collodi

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I finally got around to reading the famed 19th century Italian children's novel The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi. As a lover of European fairy tales, I was eager to read the original adventures of the marionette who would come alive. Though initially written as a serial, the novel captures the imaginative and cheeky exploits of Pinocchio on his journey to become "a real boy".

I found myself thoroughly entertained by Pinocchio's boyish mischievousness - whether getting caught up with the deceitful Fox and Cat, accidentally burning his feet off, or being transformed into a donkey. Collodi's writing brims with creativity in conjuring this impish, trouble-prone character who often bites off more than he can chew, but ultimately follows his conscience to do what's right.

With amusing scenarios and endearing supporting characters like the Blue Fairy, Talking Cricket and Geppetto, the book promotes valuable lessons on honesty, hard work and filial duty. I did feel Collodi got a bit heavy-handed with the moral messaging in parts. The serialized origins also make the plot progression slightly disjointed.  

Nonetheless, the legendary story left me feeling young at heart. Pinocchio's desire to eschew schoolwork and obligation for play and adventure speaks universally to the child within us all. With clever wit and memorable moments, Collodi’s masterpiece deserves its timeless status. I highly recommend it for adults and children alike.

1993

To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee

🌟🌟🌟🌟  I finally got around to reading Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, To Kill a Mockingbird. Set in depression era Alabama, the novel is narrated by precocious 6-year-old Scout Finch, whose father Atticus, a principled lawyer, is appointed to defend a black man unjustly accused of rape. 

Lee beautifully evokes small town southern life in the 1930s from a child’s point of view. I was transported into Scout’s world of schoolyard mishaps, neighborly folks, scary legends and her hot-headed brother Jem. Scout’s innocent yet biting narrative voice adds humor and perceptive insight. Lee builds palpable tension surrounding the trial, while confronting deep moral questions on race, justice, compassion and human dignity. 

The book’s central conflict manages to be both suspenseful and philosophically profound. I connected deeply with empathetic characters like sage neighbor Miss Maudie and the falsely accused Tom Robinson, whose tragic story highlights the book’s heartbreaking message on racism. While the ending wraps up a bit hastily, Lee crafts an enduring coming-of-age story centered around family, community and moral courage in the face of racial hatred. 

As a contemporary reader, I gained poignant historical perspective through this beloved bildungsroman. To Kill a Mockingbird remains one of the great American novels - both a masterclass in voice and suspense, as well as a moving portrait of injustice that still resonates today. I highly recommend for readers of all ages.

1993