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July 26, 2026Sources cited
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Pinocchio

Pinocchio is a fictional wooden puppet and the protagonist of Carlo Collodi’s children’s novel *The Adventures of Pinocchio*, first serialized in 1881 and published as a book in 1883.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Pinocchio is a fictional wooden puppet and the protagonist of Carlo Collodi’s children’s novel *The Adventures of Pinocchio*, first serialized in 1881 and published as a book in 1883. The character is best known for his wish to become a real boy and for his nose growing when he lies. Pinocchio has become one of the most enduring figures in children’s literature and a major source for later films and adaptations.

Origin

Pinocchio was created by Italian author Carlo Collodi for *The Adventures of Pinocchio*. The story first appeared in serial form in 1881 in *Giornale dei bambini* and was published as a book in 1883.

Character description

Pinocchio is a wooden puppet carved by Geppetto who longs to become a real boy. He is widely recognized for his mischievous nature and the growing nose associated with lying. A defining feature of the character is that his nose grows when he lies.

Themes

The story is often read as a moral tale about honesty, obedience, and personal growth. It also explores responsibility, redemption, and the desire to become fully human.

Adaptations

Pinocchio became especially well known through later adaptations, including the 1940 Disney animated film. The character has appeared in many books, films, stage works, and other retellings. In Canada, Pinocchio is widely known through English-language editions of *The Adventures of Pinocchio* and through the Disney film, which remains familiar to Canadian readers and viewers.

Key facts

  • Pinocchio is the protagonist of *The Adventures of Pinocchio* by Carlo Collodi.
  • The story first appeared in serial form in 1881 in *Giornale dei bambini* and was published as a book in 1883.
  • Pinocchio is a wooden puppet carved by Geppetto and his nose grows when he lies.
  • The story became a major influence on later adaptations, including the 1940 Disney film.
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Canadian context

Pinocchio is widely known in Canada through English-language editions of *The Adventures of Pinocchio* and through adaptations such as Disney’s 1940 film, which remains familiar to Canadian readers and viewers.

Frequently asked questions

Who created Pinocchio?
Pinocchio was created by Italian writer Carlo Collodi.
What is Pinocchio from?
He is the protagonist of *The Adventures of Pinocchio*.
When was *The Adventures of Pinocchio* first published?
It first appeared in serial form in 1881 and was published as a book in 1883.
Why is Pinocchio famous?
He is famous for wanting to become a real boy and for his nose growing when he lies.
Is Pinocchio a real historical person?
No. Pinocchio is a fictional character.

References

  1. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Adventures-of-Pinocchio
    Supports: First serial publication in 1881, book publication in 1883, authorship by Carlo Collodi, and the story premise.
  2. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinocchio
    Supports: Character identity as Pinocchio, his creation by Geppetto, and the nose-growing trait.
  3. IMDbhttps://www.imdb.com/title/tt0032910/plotsummary/
    Supports: Pinocchio’s association with the 1940 Disney film adaptation and the basic premise of becoming a real boy.