Children's books for a family trip to Italy

A family reading list for Italy, from Pinocchio to a rainy do-nothing day.

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A story set where you are headed can turn the journey into part of the trip. For Italy, that means children's books by authors and illustrators from Italy, starting with The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi. Below are three books worth packing, each available in English with links to find them at Bookshop.org or Amazon.

Best local classic
The Adventures of Pinocchio
Carlo Collodi · ages 7-11 · chapter book

Italy's essential children's classic; younger children may prefer an illustrated adaptation.

Best modern picture book
On a Magical Do-Nothing Day
Beatrice Alemagna · ages 4-8 · picture book

A bored child on a rainy day discovers wonder outdoors.

Best Venice-specific pick
Olivia Goes to Venice
Ian Falconer · ages 3-7 · picture book

Not local, but good fun for a child actually visiting Venice, where Olivia topples a landmark.

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