Celebrating the Unknown Famous Gianni Rodari

Perhaps his time has come in English-speaking countries where he is practically unknown? If not, his time will come, for Gianni Rodari (1920–80) was and still is the most significant writer for children (and adults) in Italy. In fact, he puts Carlo Collodi and his classical Pinocchio to shame. Everything Rodari wrote and imagined had only one purpose: to honor children and expose our absurd mis-education of the young. This brief essay demonstrates why Rodari is so unique and significant.