Some of us still carry oddly specific book titles that used to chase our childhood nightmares away. Roald Dahl’s stories were frequently among them—books that showed us the infinite possibilities of exploring a chocolate factory or possessing some kind of supernatural power.
As we celebrate one of the most beloved children’s authors in the 20th century, let’s return to the pages that first sparked our imaginations with these five books you can devour in one sitting.
1. The BFG
Books that feature scary giants are not new in children’s bedtime stories, but this Big Friendly Giant may be one of the first to tell us that a gruff appearance doesn’t always mean harm.
Unlike the other giants that feast on humans, the BFG has a gentle nature that sets him apart. With Sophie, his human friend, he starts a mission to thwart the other giants’ sinister plans, telling a story of friendship and bravery.
You’ll dream of standing on a giant’s shoulder while going on an adventure with this one.
2. The Witches
When a boy discovers the truth about witches and their evil schemes against children, he displays a truly heroic character to save the day.
This book is a perfect pick for your little ones—or even yourself—as a classic reminder of the essence of sacrifice and courage. After all, not all heroes wear capes; sometimes, they come in the form of even an ordinary child.
3. The Twits
“If a person has ugly thoughts, it begins to show on the face… But if you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.”
Mr. and Mrs. Twit’s physical appearance in The Twits mirrors their cruelty and wickedness. They spend their days playing nasty pranks on each other and tormenting animals for their own amusement.
One of the story’s key lessons for young readers highlights how mean-spirited thoughts can manifest in how we appear to others. Ultimately, it’s the inner beauty that shines through.
So the next time we try to examine our physical features, the first thing to look at is our character.
4. James and the Giant Peach
If you fondly remember Jack and the Beanstalk from your childhood, this might be something worth exploring.
This whimsical tale follows James, a young orphan with a troubled past, whose life takes a turn when a mysterious man gives him magical green crystals. When he accidentally spills these crystals near a peach tree, it grows to an enormous size.
Inside the peach, James meets a group of gigantic, talking insects who unexpectedly become his new family. Their journey together illustrates that happiness can often be found in friendships that are not part of our past, reminding us to let go of what no longer serves us.
5. Boy: Tales of Childhood
To conclude this list of Roald Dahl’s notable works, Boy: Tales of Childhood offers an autobiographical account filled with vivid, often humorous events that shaped many of his famous books.
This book captures Dahl’s childhood experiences behind his storytelling, including his early fascination with sweets, which later inspired Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
And if you’re an aspiring writer, you may find this book particularly inspiring.
