Pop-up book: The Pop-up Pinocchio

Originally written as a fairy tale by Carlo Collodi in 1883, the story of Pinocchio comes alive in this colorful pop-up edition created by paper engineer and illustrator Harold Lentz. He illustrated and created several such pop-ups in the 1930s for Blue Ribbon Books and Pleasure Books.

Written by Carlo Collodi (18261890)
Adapted and illustrated by Harold B. Lentz
Published by Blue Ribbon Books
New York, NY, 1933
Smithsonian Institution Libraries. PZ8 .C7Po 1933

Wall Stories: Children's Wallpapers and Books
On view: October 3, 2008April 5, 2009

This exhibition will explore the relationship between wallpapers and books created for children through works from the permanent collection and the National Design Library. From their beginning in the 1870s, children's wallpapers have been strongly influenced by literature and popular culture. Works on view will include papers illustrated with nursery rhymes and designs inspired by works of fiction and adventure, such as Peter Rabbit, Alice in Wonderland, and Cinderella. The exhibition also will trace the evolution of children's books from instructional to fictional and include developments such as movable and pop-up books, which added an interactive element to children's reading.

Wall Stories: Childrens Wallpaper and Books is made possible in part by public funds from the New York State Council on the Arts, a State agency. Additional support is provided in part by Esme Usdan, Margery and Edgar Masinter, The Liman Foundation and The Walt Disney Company.