It may be that we are too sophisticated in this day and age for as simple a morality tale as Carlo Collodi's "Pinocchio". It is certainly true that the original tale is much darker in its tone than the later versions which smooth out some of sharper edges of the narrative.

 Pinocchio himself is at first a very unlikeable character; he feels only for himself, and his apparent remorse is only self-pity. His creator, Geppetto, is initially a reluctant father figure to the self-centred marionette, and the lessons that Pinocchio must endure in order to gain boyhood are often harsh.

In this classic tale, Pinocchio, through his many adventures, learns that the virtues of hard work and study, obedience to one's parents, politeness and generosity are the only true path to becoming a real boy.

Narrated by Simon Hester. Original music by Simon Hester.