Roald Dahl: 4 Books We've All Read
Roald Dahl is one of the best-known authors of children’s literature of all time. Although he did write for adults as well, his works aimed at children truly stand out. His stories feature fun and imaginative adventures that have delighted little ones for decades while also entertaining parents with their metaphorical messages.
If you want to relive your childhood, or introduce your children to this fantastic author, we suggest starting with this selection of some of his most famous works. Your kids are sure to respond to the characters and stories of Roald Dahl.
4 great books by Roald Dahl
1. Matilda
Matilda is the main character of one of his most popular children’s books. Along with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, they’re the perfect gateways to discovering Dahl’s work.
In this story, we meet Matilda, a young girl ignored by her parents who loves reading and books. She discovers she has magical powers with the help of her teacher. Facing off against the headmistress and her parents, she learns to develop these powers.
This is a fun, family-friendly story that continues to gain new fans despite the fact that it was published over 30 years ago.
2. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
This is perhaps Dahl’s best-known work. Who hasn’t daydreamed about finding a golden ticket in a Wonka chocolate bar and getting to visit his magical factory?
In the story, five lucky kids get the chance to see the inside of the chocolate factory, but only one will prove worthy of staying.
Some critics consider the book to be a work of science fiction thanks to its fantastical elements. What the author wanted to communicate was the importance of good behavior in children, teaching them the value of being respectful and responsible.
These values need to be explained to small children by parents. Otherwise, they’ll only take away the craziness of the factory’s inner workings.
Other Roald Dahl works that will take you back to your childhood
3. James and the Giant Peach
While this isn’t one of Dahl’s best-known books, it offers a captivating story nonetheless. The story focuses on James, an orphan who lives with his two aunts, who make his life impossible.
One day, a mysterious stranger gives him a pack of magic seeds that, when planted in the ground, grow into a giant peach. The story’s central figures – James and the peach – embark on an incredible journey around the world, meeting different characters that help improve James’ life.
This book tells us something of the author’s own difficult childhood. The story also features small animals that young children will be able to identify with.
4. The Witches
With The Witches, Roald Dahl offers small doses of horror, but also plenty of fun and irony for everyone to enjoy.
The adventure follows a main character who lives with his grandmother. Younger readers will enjoy identifying the secret to escaping from the witches.
Witches, mice, magic, potions and the beautiful relationship between a grandson and grandmother are just some of the things this book has to offer. Recommended for children over 10 years of age.