Introduction

The first two chapters of the book are written by the students of the 7th High School of Thessaloniki. The school is located in an ideal spot within the municipal community of Agios Pavlos in the Municipality of Thessaloniki, offering a stunning panoramic view at the outskirts of the "Ano Poli" (Upper Town). It is situated right next to the medieval city walls and the "Gardens of Pasha," on the uphill road leading to the suburban forest of "Seich Sou" (Thousand Trees), behind the "Agios Dimitrios" Hospital.

The area is privileged and unique, rich in monuments of cultural and historical significance, such as the Eptapyrgio (Yedikule) and 

the Trigonion Tower. It is a quiet and safe neighborhood with shops, restaurants, cafés, parks, and recreational spaces. It also has easy access to the city center, both on foot and via urban transportation .

A New Friend out of the “Blue”!

Pinocchio has arrived in Greece for holidays with his mother. He is in Chalkidiki, a beautiful peninsula in northern Greece, with crystal blue sea and sandy beaches. The sun hangs low over the picturesque Chalkidiki coast, its golden light reflecting off the water in shimmering waves. Pinocchio is sitting on the beach listening to music on his mobile phone, wearing headphones. His mother has gone to get some cold drinks. Nearby there are a bunch of teenage boys, speaking and laughing loudly. They often look at Pinocchio and burst out laughing. 

A bit further away there is a girl looking for shells on the beach. She is looking discreetly at the teenagers as they start playing beach volleyball but intentionally keep throwing the ball at Pinocchio, all the harder progressively. Pinocchio moves his towel further away from the boys but they keep sending it at him and laughing in a rude way.

                                  travelo.gr

Ας σπάσουμε λίγη πλάκα μ'

αυτό το καθυστερημένο!

Artemis,  a bright and curious girl of average height and weight with brown eyes and a single blue strand in her hair, has noticed him from a distance for the past few days and decides to intervene. He always seemed so quiet, standing alone at the water’s edge, playing on his phone. She grabs the ball when it rolls to her side and throws it to the sea. The boys complain loudly but she disregards them and approaches Pinocchio. She walks cautiously towards him, the sand cool beneath her feet, and when she is close enough, she calls out softly.

Artemis: Hey, are you okay?

Pinocchio: I… I’m fine.

Artemis smiles, sensing his hesitation. She doesn’t mind his silence; she is patient. She has always been good at reading people, and she could tell that there is something deeper in him, something she wants to understand.

Artemis: I’m Artemis. I’ve seen you here a few times. You like the sea?

Pinocchio: Yes. The waves... they... don’t make me scared.

Artemis’ heart softens. She could tell it is a big deal for him to speak, even if it is just a few words.

Artemis: I get that. The sea is calming, isn’t it? It has a way of making everything else feel less important. You can just... be.

Pinocchio: It’s... peaceful. His voice is still soft, but there is something in it now, like he is beginning to trust her. I'm Pinocchio.

Artemis: Nice to meet you, Pinocchio! I love the sea too. It lets you breathe.

Pinocchio: I… I like to watch the water. It… helps me think. When I’m… alone, it’s quieter. Easier.

Σ' αρέσει η θάλασσα;

Τα κύματα...

Artemis: I get it. Sometimes the world can be too loud. The sea is quiet in its own way. It’s nice to have somewhere you can just... think.

Pinocchio: I don’t… talk to people much. I don’t know how.

Artemis turns to him, her eyes soft with understanding.

Artemis: That’s okay, Pinocchio. You don’t have to talk if you don’t want to. But if you ever feel like it, I’ll listen. You don’t have to 

be anyone else around me.

Pinocchio blinks, his “wooden” face betraying a hint of surprise. He has never heard anyone say something like that to him before. It feels... nice. Safe. For the first time, he doesn't feel pressured to speak, to pretend, or to act a certain way. It is okay just to be himself.

Pinocchio: Thank you. (His voice is small but genuine, and it feels like a weight has been lifted.)

Artemis smiles and nods. She is content just being there, sitting beside him. They don’t need to talk much—just being together, in that quiet moment by the sea, feels enough.

As the sun continues to set, casting an amber glow over the water, Artemis feels a connection to Pinocchio that she hasn’t expected. She doesn’t know him well, but she knows that something special is beginning here. A friendship, a bond, that doesn’t need words to thrive.

And for Pinocchio, this moment is a turning point. For the first time in his life, he feels comfortable enough to speak, to share a little of himself. It isn’t much, but it is a start. And with Artemis by his side, he realizes that maybe, just maybe, he could learn to be more open, one quiet step at a time.

Artemis: I’m really glad I came over today, Pinocchio. I think 

we can be good friends.

Pinocchio: I think… I think I’d like that

Pinocchio gets the courage to  introduce Artemis to his mother who is coming holding coffe and ice cream.

Pinocchio: Mom……I would want to introduce you to my 

friend Artemis.

Pinocchio’s mother: Oww..hello Artemis, how are you doing?

Artemis: I’m fine, what about you ?

Pinocchio’s mother: I am fine. Thank you!

After some small talk…Artemis decides to call her mother 

and introduce her to Pinocchio and his mother.

Artemis’ mother: Hi everyone, how are you? (She is talking with that deep Greek accent)

Pinocchio: H……hi….how are y…you doing?

Some minutes later after talking to Pinocchio’s mother 

Artemis' mother thinks of something great.

Artemis’ mother: I have a really good idea, what do you guys 

think about going to a tavern and eating some local food. 

I heard there is a great one close to us.

Pinocchio’s mother: Yeah that is a great idea!

After sometime they decide to go to the little tavern  

which is tucked away in a quiet corner of the town. 

ψάρι (fish)

νερό (water

ήλιος (sun)

καλοκαίρι (summer)

Inside the tavern, the smell of freshly grilled fish and savory Greek dishes 

fills the air. A lively hum of chatter echoes around them, but to Pinocchio, 

it all feels distant—his thoughts drifting in the calm of the evening, 

his gaze shifting from the faces around him to the flickering candlelight on the table.

As they are all sitting together, the conversation is warm and inviting. 

Artemis’ mother and Pinocchio’s mother quickly find common ground, 

talking about local places, the beauty of Chalkidiki, and the joys of quiet days by the sea. Artemis, always the connector, gently guides the conversation, 

ensuring everyone feels included.

But as the laughter swirls around him, Pinocchio finds himself still in his own quiet space. He has learned to speak more around Artemis, but large gatherings like this are overwhelming. He doesn’t quite know how to join in. 

He doesn’t know how to express himself in English very well either. Artemis tries to teach him some simple Greek words instead…

Artemis: psari (fish), nero (water), ilios (sun), kalokeri (summer) ….

Artemis, noticing the way Pinocchio seems to shrink back a little, smiles at him softly. She doesn’t rush him, but her gaze holds a silent invitation: Whenever you’re ready.

As the meal progresses, a plate of grilled sea bass is placed in front of Pinocchio. 

He pokes at the fish, the familiar peacefulness of the sea settling over him once again. He hasn’t realized how much he misses the calmness of the water, the solitude 

it offers, and yet here he is—surrounded by people who care for him, and 

it doesn't feel quite as scary as it once did.

Pinocchio: "This… this tastes good."

His voice is barely above a whisper, but it is enough to make Artemis’ heart flutter 

with happiness. She smiles at him warmly, her eyes lighting up.

Artemis: "I’m glad you like it! There’s something special about sharing a meal 

with people you care about, don’t you think?"

Pinocchio nods, his eyes meeting hers. For the first time, the simple act of 

sharing food feels meaningful, and for the first time, he doesn't feel alone 

in the world.

As the evening goes on, Artemis and her mother continue talking to Pinocchio’s mother, and Pinocchio finds himself slipping into a moment 

of ease he hasn’t expected. He doesn’t feel the pressure to speak or to 

engage in every conversation. He simply listens, watches, and allows 

himself to be a part of the moment. It is enough to be present.

Finally, after what feels like hours of lighthearted conversation and laughter, Artemis' mother smiles brightly and looks around the table.

Artemis’ Mother: "You know, this has been a lovely evening. Pinocchio, 

you’re a special young man. It’s clear to me that Artemis is lucky to have 

found a friend like you."

Pinocchio blinks, surprised by the compliment. He isn’t used to hearing such kind words. His mother smiles, her eyes proud.

Pinocchio’s Mother: "Thank you. He’s been through a lot, but I can see he’s been more open lately. I’m grateful for your friendship, Artemis."

Pinocchio glances at Artemis, his heart swelling with gratitude. She has made this possible, he thinks. She has made it feel okay to be him.

Pinocchio: "I… I’m glad… too." His voice is soft but steady, and though it isn’t much, it is a huge step for him.

Artemis, seeing the quiet change in him, reaches out and gently squeezes his hand. She doesn’t need to say anything more; the gesture is enough to 

convey everything she feels.

The evening winds down with a shared dessert—baklava and a cup of 

Greek coffee. The sky outside is now deep inky blue, the stars twinkling 

brightly over the water, the sounds of distant waves lapping at the shore. 

They all sit back, content and peaceful.

Artemis’ Mother: "How about another walk by the sea before we head home?"

Pinocchio’s Mother: "That sounds perfect."

With the night still young and the promise of more shared moments ahead, 

the group makes their way out of the tavern, strolling along the beach. 

The sea breeze is cool now, but it feels refreshing against the warmth of the evening.

As they are walking, Artemis and Pinocchio linger behind, their footsteps quiet in the sand. Artemis turns to Pinocchio, her voice soft as she speaks.

Artemis:  "I’m really glad you’re here, Pinocchio."

γλυκό (dessert)                      καφές (coffee)

παγωτό (ice-cream)

Pinocchio’s heart swells at her words, a warmth spreading through him that he has never known before. For the first time in his life, he doesn’t feel like an outsider. 

With Artemis by his side, he knows he is learning to open up and trust—not just her, but the world around him.

Pinocchio: "I’m glad too. I… I think I can be me now."

Artemis smiles, her eyes sparkling under the moonlight.

Artemis: "You always were, Pinocchio. You just needed to see it for yourself."

They walk in comfortable silence, side by side, the sounds of the sea filling the air. There is  still much for Pinocchio to learn, still many walls to break down. 

But with Artemis by his side, he knows he is no longer alone. And for the first time in his life, that feels like enough.

    Pinocchio in Thessaloniki 

                                                  The White Tower

                                                     The Rotonda monument

Pinocchio and Artemis are exploring Thessaloniki -Artemis' home town- on a sunny afternoon. They have already visited nearly all the sights of the city.  Pinocchio has issues with autism, which makes it hard for him to move as easily as Artemis. As they pass “Rotonda” Pinocchio stops to rest, tie his shoelaces and drink some water because he is thirsty and it’s so hot, but without realizing it, Artemis keeps walking ahead. When he looks up, she is gone! The streets are crowded with people and he feels dizzy. He tries to ask some tourists for help, but they are too busy taking pictures and don’t understand him. He then remembers to call her but ..to his bad luck his phone is dead. No battery! Not knowing what to do, Pinocchio keeps walking until he finds a kind shopkeeper.

P.- Hello sir, so… I lost my friend Artemis and I don’t know what to do because I’m a tourist. 

We were walking near a big building, it's called Rotonda, I think.

S.- You should go to the police station little boy, they can probably help you find your friend Artemis. It’s straight ahead!

P.- Alright, thank you very much!

And with that being said Pinocchio starts walking to the Police Station, while walking he is thinking about her, he is praying to find her. “Oh, God, please! Not again. How foolish I am!”

(in the station talking to a police officer)

P. - Good afternoon sir. I lost my friend. I asked a shopkeeper to help me 

and he told me to come here and tell you about her.

P.O.- Of course. What does she look like?

P.- Her name is Artemis. She is a sweet Greek girl with brown eyes and hair, who likes wearing blue and has blue streaks on her hair.

P.O.- Ok, do you remember anything else about her?

P.- She is an extrovert, independed, confident, calm, friendly and mature girl.

P.O.- No, I mean …where does she live? Her telephone number?

P.- ...... I don’t know, sir.

P.O.- Boy, that is not enough. We can’t find her and you have to stay here 

until she calls for you.

At the police station where Pinocchio is, there is also a group of three young boys. They were arrested for stealing and bullying other kids a few hours ago but Pinocchio doesn't know he is in danger. They look at him and laugh mockingly until one of them approaches and tries to start a conversation comforting him.

Thief-boy- "Don't worry, buddy! Everything is going to be fine. We"ll get out soon and if you come with us we can help you find your friend."

Pinocchio, unaware of what they are up to, believes them and leaves the station with them without anyone noticing. 

As planned, the kid-thieves take Pinocchio in a random narrow, cobblestone street of Ano Poli (the old town of Thessaloniki) where they find the chance to steal his phone and his wallet.

                            view from Ano Poli- the old town of Thessaloniki

Pinocchio can't hide his surprise. He has been through a lot in a 

single day. He can barely talk anymore. He is now walking behind the 

friend group; he is kind of scared but also relieved because he 

finally found nice teenagers that will help him find Artemis. 

Some minutes later they stop in front of a big beautiful house.

Teenager—“Here we are, this is Artemis' house” one of them says 

to Pinocchio while pointing at the house.

Other teenager—“She is probably not here, she is probably also looking for you, but we could still expect her mother or father opening the door”' she says before she rings the doorbell .

*doorbell sound*

Artemis' mom—“Oh hello guys, what brings you here? And where is Artemis?”

She says and lets them get in the house.

*At the table Pinocchio explains what happened*

Pinocchio starts getting upset and putting the blame on himself as the other people 

call Artemis to inform her that Pinocchio is safe at her house. Her mother notices him 

and hugs him to calm him down. 30 minutes later Artemis comes home relaxed 

that Pinocchio is safe but she also feels ashamed of herself for not taking good care

of him. As soon as he notices her, his eyes brighten like they have been friends forever.

Artemis—“Oh thank God Pinocchio!! You're safe!!!” she runs towards him and hugs him tight while apologising.

Pinocchio stays silent, he is still embarrassed by the fact that they both lost each other. 

Artemis- "Listen, I think we must go to my grandma in Veroia to relax! You'll love it, trust me. It's such a wonderful place."

Pinocchio and Artemis decide to spend the last morning in Thessaloniki doing a bit of shopping, souvenirs, presents and stuff like that. They visit the shops at the centre of the city and then take a walk along the seafront. After a while, they sit on a bench there admiring the nice view. They spot some electric scooters.

Pinocchio and Artemis rent the scooters and have a beautiful ride along  Thessaloniki’s waterfront. They are having such a nice time.

They are talking and laughing but suddenly Pinocchio starts speeding with his scooter despite Artemis' warnings to be more careful. Unfortunately, he once again refuses to take heed of Artemis' advice, loses his balance and falls in the sea!

P. – "Help me please! I can't get out!" Pinocchio shouts.

A. – "I don’t know how to help." Artemis replies. 

P. – "The sea is so deep. Can you call someone to get me out?" Pinocchio adds worryingly. 

Artemis starts shouting for help but everyone looks at her weirdly because they don’t know what is happening.

A. – "Help please! My friend is in the water." Artemis shouts.

Suddenly a man shows up and asks her what has happened. She starts explaining and without a second thought the man jumps in to rescue Pinocchio.

 Man – "I’m coming Pinocchio just hold still." he says.

After five minutes of the man trying to help Pinocchio he finally manages to get him out. Pinocchio thanks the man.

P.– "Thank you so much. You’re such a kind man. No one else helped me." Pinocchio says. 

Man– "You’re welcome." The man replies.

P.– "My mum is going to be so angry at me. I always misbehave" he says feeling very embarrassed. 

*at home*

P. –"Hi mum! We're back."

Mum– "What has happened to you Pinocchio? !" his mum asks when she sees him all wet.

 P. – "I've had a little accident. I fell in the sea while I was riding a scooter with Artemis." Pinocchio explains. 

Mum– "Madonna mia! Pinocchio, are you all right? Why are you never careful and always do impulsive things? You always get in trouble Pinocchio" his mum adds.

 P.– "I’m so sorry mum." Pinocchio replies.

 Mum– "I hope you've learned from your mistake and you will be more careful next time! Now go clean yourself up and get some rest. We are leaving for Veroia in the afternoon." Pinocchio's mum says.

      Pinocchio in Veroia

          by Makrochori High School

A panoramic view of Veria, nicknamed "Little Jerusalem",

thanks to its many churches, some dating back to the Byzantine times

Our famous peach trees in full bloom:

 a sight for sore eyes

Pinocchio and Artemis finally arrive in Veroia, where Artemis' grandmother lives. He is so impatient to meet her  grandma. Artemis has invited her new Italian friend for some days. The two kids look forward to having more adventures together.

Pinocchio is very happy to be in grandma Anna’s house. It is an old but well-preserved traditional house in what is called “old town”. There are 2 floors and a small garden with flowers. Almost next to the house there is an old church. As it is Sunday, Pinocchio and Artemis are joining grandma Anna to church. Pinocchio observes everything with great interest. Whenever someone looks at him strangely, Artemis looks at them directly in the eyes. Pinocchio feels safe and is thankful for his new friend. He thanks God for her. After the service is over, Grandma Anna takes the kids on a short “tour” around the town. She used to be a teacher so she knows many things.

Grandma Anna takes the kids to St. Paul’s Tribune, the place where he first preached Christianity to the locals. Just opposite this place, Pinocchio sees a well-preserved mosque and is impressed. Grandma describes the wall paintings which have been preserved out of respect for the civilization of another people and the multicultural character of the town in older times, as grandma explains.

Then they go to “Barbouta”, the area of the town where Jewish people lived many years ago. Grandma tells the kids that the Christian and Jewish residents of the town lived peacefully and respected one another, despite their different origins and religions. Pinocchio listens carefully. This place is so beautiful, with a stream flowing, the cable stoned path and the beautiful manor houses with their unique character. They stand outside the Synagogue and they are so very lucky as the attendant opens the place for Pinocchio to have a look. 

They then head for Elia square, the most central and frequented place in town, where they stop for an ice-cream. Grandma has called her son, Artemis’ uncle, to take them to Aliakmon river to admire the artificial lake and the dam there. Pinocchio is so excited!

        An Adventure in the Forest

When they arrive at the Aliakmon dam, the kids run outside the car. There are so many things to see there, Artemis tells Pinocchio. They can rent a bike, go jogging or walking, but better yet, they can explore the nearby forest at the banks of the river. And this is what they decide to do. Grandma Anna and Artemis’ uncle sit at a wooden table local people have built there for the hikers to rest and let the kids stroll a bit further away on condition they will be back soon. Pinocchio is really fascinated by the landscape, the rustling of the leaves of the trees, the birds singing, the fresh air and keeps walking. Artemis sits by a stone fountain to rest but Pinocchio keeps on.

Artemis: Pinocchio, come back! The forest isn’t as innocent as it looks. And grandma said we should be back soon.

Pinocchio: Seriously now? Don’t tell me you are scared! Artemis, named after the goddess of the forests and hunting, is scared! Come on, I want to see the treasures of the forest!

Artemis: I’m staying here. Go on if you want but don’t come running for help!

Pinocchio: Don’t worry, I won’t! 

So, Pinocchio goes deeper into the forest all alone. Enchanted by the sight of the river flowing so calmy, he strays far away. There is complete silence. The sun starts setting. 

All of a sudden, a loud thump is heard and a shadow passes quickly in front of him. Is it… a bear? His heart starts pounding. He knows he has to stay calm but he is shaking.

Pinocchio: Perhaps I should have listened to Artemis. I’d better go back.

But the dense trees and the lack of light confuse Pinocchio. He feels lost. He is looking for something familiar from the places he passed by earlier when he hears the sound of axes and sawing. 

-Grazie a Dio! (Thank God) There are people here, they will help me”. 

Indeed, Pinocchio comes across a couple of men logging trees illegally. When they see him, they start moving threateningly towards him.

-“You, what are you doing here?” 

Pinocchio, realizing he is in trouble, starts running as fast as he can when he stumbles at the root of a tree, falls on the ground and starts rolling down a little hill. He bumps his head and passes out. After a while, he comes round. 

(Voices from above)

 “I’m sure I saw him tumbling down. Let’s keep looking. We must find him. He mustn’t tell anyone about us”. Pinocchio understands he has to find a way to get quickly away from there. When the men leave, he finds a branch and, grabbing it, crawls up.

Βοήθεια, Άρτεμη!

Help!

In the meantime, Artemis is  worried. It is a long time since Pinocchio left. Grandma Anna and Pinocchio’s mom decide to call the police. Artemis, however, can’t wait any longer. Has something bad happened to her friend? Artemis takes the path Pinocchio took using her mobile to light the way. After a while she makes a figure out in the distance. It is Pinocchio! He is limping. She runs to him as fast as she can. 

A:rtemis: Pinocchio! At last! What happened to your leg? 

Pinocchio: I had a big adventure all right. My curiosity put me in trouble once more. You were right, I shouldn’t have left all alone.

 At that moment, Pinocchio’s mother, Artemis' uncle and grandma, along with the police arrive. Pinocchio tells the police what he has seen and describes the villains to them so the police can catch them. The forest must be protected! It is, after all, where he originally came from!

    An Adventure in the Perama Cave

Time has passed really quickly and Pinocchio must return to Italy. Artemis and her parents have decided to drive their new friends to Igoumenitsa where they will take the ferry to Italy. On the way, our heroes arrive in Giannina, a big city with a beautiful lake in its center. Artemis’ parents take their new friends on a short tour around the city center and the lake promenade and they mention there is a cave full of stalactites and stalagmites just outside the city. Pinocchio is really impressed and asks if they can go. They all agree but Artemis’ parents warn everyone, especially the young ones, to be very careful as it is really slippery in there. They must follow the rules and be good kids.

Ioannina_Perama

Upon entering, Pinocchio is stunned. He has never seen anything like it. He starts taking photos thinking he will impress kids back home so they might want to be friends with him. So he forgets about his promise to follow rules and strays away from the others taking a steep path towards various formations inside the cave. He gets lost and all soaked up. He feels miserable for breaking rules for yet another time. He thinks that maybe he deserves to be left alone inside that cave, some of whose stalagmites remind him of his nose when it got long when he used to lie.

spilaio.4

He wants to cry but thinks boys don't cry. Just then he hears something like a whisper, which frightens him. He tells himself that it is just his imagination. But the whisper gets louder and he can make out his name. All kinds of fears start taking over him; is it a spirit, the spirit of the cave, feeling insulted at his impertinence? Is it a ghost of an explorer of the cave perhaps? He starts praying: "Padre nostro, che sei nei cieli..."

 A light blinds him and he is about to slip down a cliff when he hears Artemis’ voice:  

 "Pinocchio, don’t move, Pinocchio it’s me, Artemis. Careful!!” 

“Artemis!!!Artemis!!!”, he shouts: “Help! Aiouto!”

Artemis: Sh, don’t shout, you mustn’t shout in here, we might cause damage. Come, this way, (she flashes the way to Pinocchio with her mobile). Great, now grab my hand!

Pinocchio: No, I can’t climb, it’s too high! Oh, it is like that time when they had hung me on the tree, I feel dizzy… 

Artemis: Come on, Pinocchio, you can do it, take my hand!"

Pinocchio: No, perhaps it’s better this way. I am a good for nothing fellow, always bringing sorrow to my parents. I promised them I would be a good boy, I promised my dad I would listen to mom and behave. Leave me alone, go away…

Artemis: No way! We are friends. Friends support each other, through thick and thin. Now grab my hand, do it, Pinocchio, trust me!

Pinocchio manages to get hold of Artemis’ hand and climbs up the gap separating them. They hug. Artemis tenderly explains that he does risky things, he acts without thinking things carefully and this is the reason he gets into trouble, not that he is bad. She also says he doesn’t have to try so hard to make friends, that he is a good-hearted person who can be a great friend if he gives others the chance to get to know him and stops being online so much.

The two kids come to the exit of the cave where Pinocchio's mom hugs him tight, relieved he is well. She thanks Artemis, says she is his “good fairy” and treats the kids to some local dessert (“gianniotiko” with ice-cream)

Then they set off for Igoumenitsa where they will take the ferry to Italy. 

Before going on board, Pinocchio is really sad.

Pinocchio: How am I going to make it without you?

Artemis: You will be all right. Believe in yourself, Pinocchio. Remember, true light comes from within. Just let it shine! And I will soon come to visit you.

Pinocchio: Thank you, for everything. I will miss you!

Artemis: Me too. But I will soon come to visit. Take care, my friend!

They hug and Pinocchio and his mom board the ship. 

           OUR STORY'S GLOSSARY

ENGLISH              GREEK                  ITALIAN

friendship          φιλία                     amicizia

love                 αγάπη                   amore

understanding      κατανόηση              comprensione

respect             σεβασμός               rispetto        

companionship     συντροφικότητα         compagni 

diversity           διαφορετικότητα         diversità

empathy           ενσυναίσθηση            empatia

sensitivity          ευαισθησία             sensibilità

tolerance           ανεκτικότητα           tolleranza

self-esteem       αυτοσεβασμός          autostima

honesty           ειλικρίνεια              onestà

Pinocchio in Italia

(versione in italiano)

Scuola Secondaria di Primo grado "R.Maltini", Isola del Giglio

Un giorno Pinocchio saltò la scuola e prese l’autobus per andare a Firenze. Arrivato a Firenze, il burattino passò per la piazza della Signoria e tutti lo guardavano e gli chiedevano informazioni per il suo aspetto. Lui non guardava nessuno in faccia, anzi teneva lo sguardo fisso a terra camminando frettolosamente. Passato per il Ponte Vecchio, Pinocchio vide una casa completamente celeste proprio di fianco agli Uffizi. Il palazzo turchino era ricco di fiori e affacciata al balcone c’era una bellissima donna con i capelli lunghi e celesti, gli occhi azzurri. La donna indossava un vestito meraviglioso, principesco e aveva una bacchetta magica. Pinocchio rimase stupito dal sole che rifletteva sulle scarpe argentate della misteriosa donna. 

Il burattino abbagliato da quella luce si voltò di scatto, riconobbe subito la fata turchina e urlò: "Fatina! Fatina! Sono Pinocchio"!. 

La fatina non appena lo vide fece un gran sorriso, lo salutò e con un colpo di bacchetta la porta si aprì. Pinocchio entrò nel palazzo turchino e stranamente fu contento di abbracciare la fatina, dopo la fatina gli disse: "Pinocchio, ti stavo aspettando. Come è andato il viaggio? " Pinocchio sembrò non ascoltare le parole della fatina e ripeté con insistenza: " Andiamo all’aeroporto? Andiamo all’aeroporto? ".  La fatina lo rassicurò e lo invitò a non avere fretta perché mancava ancora mezz’ora all’arrivo di Artemis. Pinocchio e la fatina andarono nel parcheggio turchino, ma la macchina non c’era e Pinocchio sembrò agitarsi e chiese con insistenza: "Dove è la macchina? Dove è la macchina? ". La fatina agitò per tre volte in aria la bacchetta e come per magia apparve il maggiolone turchino. I due salirono in macchina e sfrecciando velocemente arrivarono in un baleno all’aeroporto.

Con tre colpi di bacchetta la fata parcheggiò magicamente il maggiolone e insieme a Pinocchio si recarono verso l’arrivo dei voli. Pinocchio era impaziente, trepidante, saltellava di continuo ripetendo: " Manca davvero poco! Manca davvero

poco! ". Si aprirono le porte e Artemis arrivò, corse incontro a Pinocchio per abbracciarlo, ma lui si spostò. La ragazza non ci rimase male, conosceva bene il suo amico e sapeva che non amava gli abbracci. Artemis salutò la fata turchina e tutti e tre uscirono dall’aeroporto e andarono a recuperarono la macchina. Con tre colpi di bacchetta la fata fece comparire il maggiolone. Arrivati al palazzo turchino, Artemis ringraziò la fata e il suo amico per l’ospitalità e guardando fuori dalla

finestra vide un grande palazzo. La ragazza ne rimase impressionata e chiese alla fata se fosse possibile visitarlo.

La fata turchina ben volentieri la portò in quel palazzo e fin da subito iniziò a

spiegare ai due amici che proprio quello era uno dei musei più famosi al mondo per le sue oltre 300.000 opere: Gli Uffizi. Durante la visita i due amici rimasero estasiati da un quadro: “La Primavera di Botticelli” e la fata turchina iniziò a dare loro spiegazioni dell’opera. Artemis sembrava interessarsi molto del dipinto, ma Pinocchio quasi sembrava che non ascoltasse. Subito dopo i tre andarono a Santa Maria de Fiore, Pinocchio però non tollerava tutto quel chiasso e Artemis, conoscendo il suo amico, cercò un posto più tranquillo. I due andarono sopra la cupola della Chiesa, in un posto privo di confusione. Dopo quest’ultima visita i due tornarono al palazzo turchino, dove per cena mangiarono una pizza gigantesca. 

Terminata la cena, i tre, esausti andarono a dormire. La notte Pinocchio si svegliò, era triste e si recò nella grande sala per cercare un po' di tranquillità.

La fatina lo raggiunse e gli chiese come mai fosse così triste. Il burattino

rispose: "desidero molto diventare un bambino, ma sono consapevole che non ci riuscirò mai!". A queste parole la fatina si intenerì e gli promise una sorpresa al suo risveglio. Così il burattino tornò a letto. La mattina seguente Pinocchio si svegliò e andò in bagno per lavarsi la faccia, si guardò allo specchio ed esclamò: " Sono un bambino! Sono un bambino! ". Corse dalla sua amica, che inizialmente non lo riconobbe. Pinocchio per la prima volta fu davvero felice, tanto che riuscì ad abbracciare senza esitazione Artemis la quale capì cosa fosse successo. Dopo aver fatto colazione con un cannolo siciliano, uscirono dalla casa della fata turchina per andare al palazzo Medici- Riccardi. La fata spiegò loro che era un museo e che quello fu il primo palazzo dei Medici. Dopo averlo visitato, si diressero verso la chiesa di Santa Maria Novella per poi concludere il loro percorso a Firenze. 

Decisero di fare una piccola vacanza anche all’Isola del Giglio, luogo amato anche da Geppetto. Così la fata turchina preparò le valigie, una volta caricate sul maggiolone i tre partirono.

Dopo un lungo viaggio, arrivarono a Porto Santo Stefano, dove i tre assisterono al Palio Marinaro. Venne premiato il rione Valle. Per cena mangiarono la tonnina. Il giorno seguente i tre presero il traghetto la mattina presto e si imbarcarono per l’Isola del Giglio. Scesi dal traghetto, i due amici e la fatina, furono rallegrati dalla vista di un porto dai colori vivaci e fecero una passeggiata fino al molo verde. Poi giunsero all’ Hotel Saraceno, e Pinocchio chiese disponibilità per una camera. I tre

visitarono la chiesa di San Lorenzo, in cui ci sono alcuni resti di una nave di un tragico naufragio. Dopo Pinocchio, Artemis e la fata presero un taxi per andare a visitare la Torre del Campese. 

La fatina per ristorarsi fece un tuffo nelle acque color smeraldo dell’Isola, ma dopo pochi minuti sparì nel nulla. Pinocchio preoccupato, iniziò a cercarla, si spinse al largo e venne inghiottito da un grande pesce cane. Non c’era luce, ma Pinocchio comprese che era finito proprio dentro la pancia di quel grande pesce. Il pesce continuò a nuotare fino alla Cala dietro al Faraglione presso “ I Pozzarelli”.

Artemis si accorse che era ormai trascorso molto tempo da quando Pinocchio e la

 fatina si erano assentati. La ragazza prese il sup e andò a cercare loro. Vide Geppetto in lontananza intento a riordinare gli ombrelloni e insieme ad Artemis andò alla ricerca dei due dispersi. Artemis e Geppetto caricarono Pinocchio sul sup e li portarono a Riva sani e salvi. Finito il soggiorno sull’Isola del Giglio, i tre salutarono Geppetto che continuò la sua vacanza e tornarono a Porto Santo Stefano. Con il maggiolone turchino Pinocchio, Artemis e la Fatina partirono alla volta di Siena.

SIENA

Pinocchio incuriosito della Provincia di Siena, decise di scoprire le sue tradizioni e le sue feste. Per

arrivare a Siena, Pinocchio e Artemis salutarono la fata e presero il treno. A stento Pinocchio

riusciva a sopportare la confusione e scese tre fermate prima dell’arrivo. Il burattino invece di

andare verso piazza del Campo, andò nella Biblioteca più vicina con l’amica. Dopo un po di tempo i

proprietari della Biblioteca rimproverarono i due amici perché stavano disturbando. Dopo

andarono via e Pinocchio voleva visitare Piazza del Campo. Con una voce robotica e senza

guardare le persone negli occhi, Pinocchio chiese loro informazioni. Egli andò in giro e arrivato al

Duomo, Artemis per la felicità provò ad abbracciarlo senza successo. Pinocchio alla vista del

Duomo si sentì smarrito perché era immenso, ma provò anche stupore perché era meraviglioso. 

I due amici si avviarono verso la Piazza del Campo dove si svolgeva anche il Palio. La piazza aveva la

forma di una conchiglia con nove raggi. Durante il Palio vi era una corsa in cui dieci persone della

città potevano partecipare con un cavallo a caso pescato dalla sorte. 

Poi i due amici andarono a mangiare il cibo tipico senese: il pecorino di Pienza, il panforte, la finocchiata e le ricciarelle. Alla fine della giornata stancante, Pinocchio e Artemis tornarono a casa della fata turchina. A tavola Pinocchio silenziosamente consumava il suo pasto, mentre Artemis raccontava alla fatina tutte le loro avventure. La fatina rimproverò Pinocchio per non essere più andato a scuola e di aver detto bugie. Infatti il burattino inventò un’altra bugia pur di non andare a scuola: la scuola si era allagata! La fatina pensò che fosse il momento di dargli un insegnamento, quindi durante la notte, mentre Pinocchio dormiva lo trasformò in un asino. 

Il mattino seguente Artemis disse a Pinocchio che era diventato un asino, ma lui non credette alle sue parole. Una volta uscito di casa, Pinocchio, venne intravisto da due gigliesi che lo catturarono e lo portarono a fare il Palio degli asini del Giglio. Pinocchio fu messo nella squadra della Casamatta e dopo tre giri di corsa faticosi vinse. La fatina, appassionata del Palio, apprese da Giglio News di un asino identico a Pinocchio. La fata decise di imbarcarsi alla volta del Giglio insieme ad Artemis perché capì che quell’asino era Pinocchio. Decise di premiarlo facendolo diventare un umano.

English version

Secndaria di Primo Grado "R.Maltini", Isola del Giglio

Pinocchio skipped school and caught the bus to Florence. Once arrived, the puppet crossed Piazza della Signoria; everybody looked at him and asked him about his appearance. He didn't look at anybody but he kept his eyes fixed on the ground walking hurriedly. Going beyond Ponte Vecchio, he saw a light blue house close to the Uffizi. The turquoise building flourished with flowers and a beautiful woman, with long turquoise hair and light blue eyes, was at the balcony. She wore a wonderful gown and a magic wand was in her hands. Pinocchio was amazed by the sun reflecting on the mysterious woman’s silver shoes. The puppet dazzled by that light but he turned away and immediately recognized her and shouted: "Blue Fairy! Blue Fairy! I'm Pinocchio!" The fairy as soon as she saw him smiled, greeted him and opened the door with a stroke of the wand. Pinocchio entered the palace and strangely was happy to embrace the fairy, after the fairy said: Pinocchio seemed not to listen to the fairy and repeated insistently: "Are we going to the airport? We go to the airport?". The fairy reassured him and invited him to relax because they would arrive on time to welcome Artemis. Pinocchio and the fairy went to the parking lot, but the car was not there and Pinocchio seemed to agitate and asked insistently: "Where is the car? Where is the car?". The fairy waved her wand three times in the air and the turquoise Volkswagen Beetle appeared as if by magic. The two got into the car and quickly arrived at the airport

With three wand strokes the fairy magically parked the car and they went towards the  flight arrivals. Pinocchio was impatient, anxious, constantly hopping and repeating: "It’s really not long! It’s really not long!". The doors opened and Artemis arrived, ran towards Pinocchio and hugged him, but he moved away. The girl was not upset, she knew he did not like hugs. Artemis greeted the blue fairy and all three left the airport to the car. Three mor wand strokes and the car  appeared in front of them. Once at the Turquoise palace, Artemis looked out of the window and saw a big palace. The girl was impressed and asked the fairy if it would be possible to visit it.

The blue fairy gladly brought her to the palace and explained to them that it was one of the most famous museums in the world hosting more than 300,000 works: The Uffizi. During the visit, the two friends were delighted by a painting: "The Spring of Botticelli" and the blue fairy gave them explanations about the work. Artemis seemed to be very interested in it while Pinocchio almost seemed not to listen her. Immediately after the three went to Santa Maria de Fiore, but there was too much noise and Artemis, she knew his friend, found a quieter place. The two went over the dome cupola, a really quiet place. Than they two came back to the Turkish palace, where they had a gigantic pizza for dinner. After dinner, the three exhausted went to sleep. 

At night, Pinocchio woke up, he was sad and went to the great hall to find some peace. The fairy reached him and asked why he was so sad. The puppet replied: "I'd really like to be a child, but I am aware that I will never be!". At these words the fairy relented and promised him a surprise when he'd wake up. So the puppet went back to bed. The morning after Pinocchio woke up and went to the bathroom, looked at himself in the mirror and exclaimed: "I’m a child! I am a child!". She ran to her friend, who initially did not recognize him. For the first time Pinocchio was so happy that he could embrace without hesitation Artemis who understood what had happened. After breakfast with a Sicilian cannolo, they left home for the Medici-Riccardi palace. 

The fairy explained them that it was a museum and, in the past, it was the Medici'sfirst palace. After a visit, they headed to the church of Santa Maria Novella so they concluded their journey in Florence. They decided for a short holiday to Giglio Island also, Geppetto's favourite place. So the blue fairy prepared the suitcases and loaded them on the beetle the three left to south of Tuscany.

Spanish version

Secondaria di Primo Grado, Porto Santo Stefano, III C

FLORENCIA

Un día, Pinocho saltó la escuela y tomó el autobús para ir a Florencia. En Florencia, pasó por la Plaza de la Signoria y todos lo observaban de manera extraña. Él mantenía la mirada fija en el suelo y caminaba apresuradamente. Justo al lado de los Uffizi, Pinocho vio una casa completamente azul. En el balcón había una hermosa mujer con el pelo azul, llevaba un maravilloso vestido y tenía una varita mágica. El muñeco de madera reconoció enseguida a la hada azul y gritó: <<¡Hada! ¡Hada! ¡Soy Pinocho!>>. La hada le sonrió ampliamente, lo saludó y con un golpe de varita se abrió la puerta. Pinocho entró y, extrañamente, estaba contento de abrazarla; pero cuando ella le preguntó sobre el viaje, repetía insistentemente: <<¿Vamos al aeropuerto? ¿Vamos al aeropuerto?>>.  La hada lo invitó a no tener prisa porque faltaba media hora para la llegada de Artemis. Entonces se encaminaron tranquilamente hacia el aparcamiento, subieron al coche y llegaron al aeropuerto. Con tres golpes de varita, la hada aparcó y, junto a Pinocho, se dirigieron hacia la llegada de los vuelos. Pinocho estaba impaciente, saltaba continuamente repitiendo: <<¡Falta muy poco! ¡Falta muy poco!>>. 

Se abrieron las puertas y Artemis corrió hacia Pinocho para abrazarlo, pero él se apartó. La chica no se molestó, conocía bien a su amigo y sabía que no le gustaban los abrazos. Artemis saludó a la hada azul y los tres salieron del aeropuerto. Al llegar al palacio azul, Artemis agradeció por la hospitalidad; mirando por la ventana vio un gran palacio y le pidió a la hada que lo visitaran. La hada aceptó y les explicó a los dos amigos que ese era uno de los museos más famosos del mundo: los Uffizi. Durante la visita, los dos amigos apreciaron mucho el cuadro "La Primavera" de Botticelli. Después de eso, los tres fueron a Santa Maria del Fiore, pero Pinocho no toleraba toda esa confusión y Artemis, conociendo a su amigo, buscó un lugar más tranquilo. Después de esta última visita, los dos regresaron al palacio azul, donde para cenar comieron agua cocida. Finalmente, los tres, cansadísimos, se fueron a dormir. 

 Durante la noche, Pinocho se despertó, estaba triste y se dirigió a la gran sala en busca de un poco de tranquilidad. La hada lo alcanzó y le preguntó cómo estaba. El muñeco de madera respondió: <<¡Deseo mucho convertirme en un niño, pero sé que es imposible!>>. A estas palabras, la hada se conmovió y le vino una idea. A la mañana siguiente, Pinocho se despertó y fue al baño a lavarse la cara, se miró en el espejo y exclamó: <<¡Soy un niño! ¡Soy un niño!>> Corrió hacia su amiga, que al principio no lo reconoció. Pinocho, por primera vez, fue realmente feliz, tanto que logró abrazar sin dudar a Artemis. Después de desayunar con cantuccini, salieron de casa para ir al palacio Medici-Riccardi. La hada les explicó que ese fue el primer palacio de los Medici. Después de visitarlo, se dirigieron hacia la iglesia de Santa Maria Novella para concluir su recorrido por Florencia. Decidieron hacer unas pequeñas vacaciones también en la Isla del Giglio, así que la hada azul preparó las maletas y los tres partieron.

ISOLA DEL GIGLIO

Después de un largo viaje, llegaron a Porto Santo Stefano, donde los tres fueron espectadores del Palio Marinaro, una regata entre los cuatro barrios del pueblo. Para cenar, comieron pizza con anchoas. Al día siguiente decidieron dar un paseo por el pueblo y mientras caminaban, vieron una gran construcción en la colina: la Fortaleza Española, que se asomaba al puerto de Porto Santo Stefano. Tenían mucha curiosidad y decidieron visitarla. Al llegar cerca de la fortaleza, Pinocho se sorprendió por sus grandes murallas de piedra. Subió las escaleras para llegar a la cima y miró el mar y la costa a lo lejos. ¡La vista era estupenda! Dentro de la construcción, conoció a un viejo soldado que le contó muchas historias sobre las batallas que se habían librado en ese lugar. Pinocho escuchaba atentamente y quería saber más, mirando fascinado al soldado. 

Al final de la visita salió entusiasmado y se sentó en el primer banco que encontró frente a él. Al final, Pinocho reanudó su camino, listo para su próxima aventura que lo llevó a la Isla del Giglio. Al bajar del ferry, todos se alegraron al ver un puerto de colores vivos y dieron un paseo hasta el muelle verde. Después tomaron un taxi para ir a visitar la Torre del Campese. La hada buceó en las aguas color esmeralda de la isla, pero después de unos minutos desapareció. Pinocho, preocupado, nadó para buscarla y fue así que un tiburón se lo comió. No había luz, pero Pinocho comprendió que había terminado dentro de su gran barriga. El pez siguió nadando hasta la Cala detrás del Faraglione cerca de "I Pozzarelli". Artemis se dio cuenta de que los dos faltaban desde hacía mucho tiempo, así que tomó el sup y fue a buscarlos. Por suerte, Artemis logró encontrarlos a ambos y llevarlos de vuelta a la orilla sanos y salvos. Al finalizar la estancia en la Isla del Giglio, los tres regresaron a Porto Santo Stefano y partieron rumbo a Siena.

SIENA

Pinocho tenía curiosidad por ver sus monumentos y, en particular,  Piazza del Campo. En el camino, se encontró con Jacopo, un chico de su misma edad que, al igual que él, era un poco travieso y estaba en busca de aventuras. Juntos visitaron la famosa plaza, que se encuentra entre tres colinas donde se alza Siena.

Originalmente, la plaza era un gran prado, de ahí el nombre "campo". Fue construida en el siglo XIII; en la época medieval era un mercado, el lugar donde los ciudadanos se encontraban. Se construyó adaptando la pendiente del terreno, tiene una forma circular similar a una concha y cuenta con un característico pavimento de ladrillos rojos. Cada año, el 2 de julio y el 16 de agosto, en ese lugar se celebra el célebre Palio de Siena, una carrera de caballos montados por jinetes.

Luego, los dos amigos fueron a comer la comida típica de Siena: el pecorino de Pienza, el panforte, la finocchiona y los cantuccini. Al final de un día agotador, Pinocho y Artemis se despidieron de Jacopo y regresaron a casa con la hada azul. Durante la cena, la hada reprobó a Pinocho por no haber ido más a la escuela, y el muñeco se inventó una mentira que le había sugerido su amiguito Jacopo: ¡la escuela se había inundado! La hada decidió darle una lección, así que durante la noche lo transformó en un burro. 

A la mañana siguiente, dos chicos de Giglio que estaban de vacaciones en Siena capturaron al burro-Pinocho y lo llevaron a participar en el Palio de los burros en Giglio. Pinocho participó en el equipo de Casamatta y, después de tres vueltas, ganó. La hada se enteró por Giglio News de que ese burro era Pinocho, por lo que decidió embarcarse hacia Giglio junto a Artemis para premiarlo, haciéndolo convertirse, esta vez para siempre, en humano.

BOOKMARK

TO COLOR...