Pinocchio

by Margaret Hillert, Carlo Collodi, Laurie Hamilton

Reading Levels vary with each set, but range from 1.0 - 1.5.

Genres: Childrens

Paperback

First published February 20, 1981

About the author

Margaret Hillert has written over 80 books for children who are just learning to read. Her books have been translated into many languages and have helped children throughout the world learn to read. She first started writing poetry as a child and has continued to write for children and adults throughout her life. As a first grade teacher, Margaret realized that the books available for students just learning to read were beyond their comprehension. She then began to write her easy readers and poetry for children. Her first collection of poetry Farther Than Far was published in 1969. Her many awards include the Chicago Children's Reading Round Table Annual Award for outstanding contributions to the field of children's literature. Other honors include the David W. Longe Prize and the Michigan Bookwoman of the Year Award. A teacher for 34 years, she is now retired and lives in Michigan where she continues to write stories and poetry.

Reviews

[Laura]

It is certainly an extremely simplified version of the story, and not particularly interesting, but the repetition of the words and phrases is definitely good for my reluctant reader.

[Paula]

This updated “Fairy Tales and Folklore” beginning-to-read title by Margaret Hillert retells the story of Pinocchio for emerging readers. The very abridged (32 pp) version tries to adhere to the original, but the plot and narrative suffer. The many lessons that Pinocchio can impart are largely missing, but that is expected with the limited vocabulary. The simple sentences and repetition are intended for beginning readers. The format and bright refashioned cartoon illustrations will appeal to the younger audience. The appended reading reinforcement activities that are a mainstay of Hillert titles serve to help parents, teachers or caregivers enrich the reading experience. The titles are more suited for beginning reading practice than actual introduction to classic fairy tales.

[Emily Powers]

This book is another great example of a beginning book. This is a paperback book that is the story of Pinocchio but it tells the story in a very simple way so that beginning readers will understand. I liked this book but felt as though the pictures could have been more inviting.

[Smoot M.L.]

Based on the story and very simple to read. Still captures the magic of the story of life's troubles and goodness. Beginners readers will find it easy to read and understand. Enjoyable book that you want to read over and over again.

[Eireanne]

On the suggested summer reading list for students.