A perennial favourite, Roald Dahl’s books continue to entertain (and horrify) children and adults alike. Bursting with memorable characters, Dahl’s often twisted tales leave a lasting impression, from the laugh-out-loud Revolting Rhymes to the dark world of The Witches. His language use is a joy to read, creating playful new words to add to our vocabulary. The books below shed light on Dahl’s rich, full and, at times, tragic life, giving readers an insight into the man behind the books and his influences. They also pay homage to the worlds and words he invented.
Roald Dahl Words
by Roald Dahl (Author), Quentin Blake (Illustrator)
Review: This colourful board book is a delightful introduction to the world of Roald Dahl. Each double-page spread features characters from a different Roald Dahl book. These books are not named but include Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Enormous Crocodile, James and The Giant Peach and Matilda. Older readers would enjoy spotting the characters and matching them with the books they feature in. Children are introduced to new vocabulary as they explore the pages. Small tasks such as finding hidden images, or counting the number of objects heighten engagement levels as do a series of fold-out flaps.
Watch below for a read-aloud.
Suggested Reading Age: Baby to 3 years old. In my opinion, older readers would enjoy flicking through this, too (see the suggestion above).
Fantastic Mr Dahl
By Michael Rosen
Review: Michael Rosen’s account of Roald Dahl’s life is engaging and insightful. Featuring personal anecdotes and drawing on Dahl’s autobiographies Boy and Going Solo amongst other sources, this is a well-put-together biography. Beginning with a wonderful recount of his son meeting Dahl, Fantastic Mr Dahl is divided into three sections: The Boy, The Man and The Writer. This latter section provides some fascinating insights into Dahl as an author. Illustrated throughout by Quentin Blake, this book makes a well-worth addition to any Roald Dahl collection.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 to 12 years old. In my opinion, this would also appeal to older readers looking for a quick read.
Click here to read that super introduction.
More About Boy: Tales of Childhood
by Roald Dahl (Author), Quentin Blake (Illustrator)
Review: This updated version of Roald Dahl’s autobiography keeps the original text but features additional letters, photographs and notes, making this an even more engaging reading experience. The thoughtful additions further illustrate and shed greater light on Dahl’s formative years. Full of laugh-out-loud and “aha” moments when one spots a connection with one of Dahl’s books, this updated version is a must for Dahl fans or new readers.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 years and up.
Roald Dahl’s Revolting Recipes
by Roald Dahl (Author), Felicity Dahl (Author), Josie Fison (Author), Quentin Blake (Illustrator), Jan Baldwin (Photographer)
Review: What better way for young readers to be introduced to Roald Dahl’s fantastical writing than through cooking food that is mentioned in his books? Featuring starters, snacks, main courses, desserts, drinks and confectionery, there is something for every occasion. Beautifully photographed and accompanied by Quentin Blake’s illustrations, this is an all-around treat. Dive in and try out Fresh Mudburgers, Lickable Wallpaper or Willy Wonka’s Nutty Crunch Surprise. Those with a stronger stomach may be drawn to Wormy Spaghetti or Mr Twit’s Beard Food. Enjoy!
Suggested Reading Age: 8 – 13 years old. I am sure that younger children first discovering Roald Dahl would enjoy making these too!
Oxford Roald Dahl Dictionary
by Oxford Languages (Author), Susan Rennie (Contributor), Quentin Blake (Contributor), Roald Dahl (Contributor)
Review: This book is a gem, a dictionary dedicated to Roald Dahl’s tremendously inventive words. “Normal” terms that he used in his writing feature alongside words of his creation. Each entry is sure to inspire young writers and delight avid readers of Dahl’s books. Tidbits of information include how Dahl invented his words and quotes from Dahl’s books show the words “in action”. Accompanied by Quentin Blake’s illustrations from the books, this is a visually appealing dictionary that invites readers to sit and take time browsing through its pages.
Suggested Reading Age: 8 to 11 years old.
Love From Boy
by Donald Sturrock (Author)
Review: A terrific premise, Donald Sturrock (Dahl’s authorised biographer) traces Roald Dahl’s life via the medium of the letters he wrote to his mother. These span the decades from his time at boarding school through the Second World War to life in America and beyond. The letters provide a deep insight into Dahl’s thinking and the challenges and hurdles that he encountered and overcame during his life. At times poignant, always entertaining, this book is a perfect companion to Dahl’s autobiographies. Sturrock’s commentary links Dahl’s letters together to provide a sensitive, in-depth one of a kind look at the author. Highly recommended.
Suggested Reading Age: Teenagers and up.
Happy Reading!
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Do YOU know any books that would be perfect for a Roald Dahl author study? Please pop the titles below .