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Roald Dahl was born in Wales of Norwegian parents – the child of a second marriage. His father and elder sister died when Roald was just three. His mother was left to raise two stepchildren and her own four children. Roald was her only son.
He had an unhappy time at school - at Llandaff Cathedral School, at St Peter’s prep school in Weston-super-Mare and then at Repton in Derbyshire.
Dahl’s unhappy time at school was to influence his writing greatly. He once said that what distinguished him from most other children’s writers was “this business of remembering what it was like to be young”. Roald’s childhood and schooldays are the subject of his autobiography Boy.
Since Roald Dahl’s death, his books have more than maintained their popularity. Total sales of the UK editions are around 37 million, with more than 1 million copies sold every year! Sales have grown particularly strongly in America where Dahl books are now achieving the bestselling status that curiously proved elusive during the author’s lifetime.
Matilda is BRAVE and BRILLIANT - and you can be too! Packed with GAMES, JOKES AND QUIZZES and much more, this marvellous book has all the tips and tricks you need to become a REAL HERO and even stand up to THE TERRIBLE TRUNCHBULL.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month January 2019 | | Roald Dahl’s dramatic last story is perfectly matched for the first time by Quentin Blake’s new illustrations in a beautifully produced edition. Billy is told by his mum that he must never go out through the garden gate and into the dark wood. But how can he resist the attraction of the wood and what is in it? Billy heads into the wood and meets the Minpins, delightful tiny creatures who live inside the hollow trees. And the Minpins are terrified. The dreadful Gruncher is destroying them and they need Billy’s help to stop him. Soon Billy finds himself at the centre of a thrilling adventure that is literally a matter of life and death. Roald Dahl’s story-telling skills look as bright as ever.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month June 2018 Count from 1 to 10 with the Enormous Crocodile! With one big flap and an ENORMOUS surprise, this sturdy board book is perfect for little hands. A brilliant introduction to the world of Roald Dahl. Lovereading Comment to follow. Commissioning editor Carmen McCullough said: "We are thrilled to be launching Roald Dahl publishing for pre-school readers for the very first time in 2018. The Enormous Crocodile is the perfect character to introduce Dahl to a younger audience: bringing just the right amount of humour and mischief to these core first concept titles, which promise to entertain parents too. We already know Quentin Blake's unmistakeable and expressive illustrations have huge appeal to younger readers, and are confident this exciting expansion will help create a whole new generation of Roald Dahl fans." Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for June 2018: Mariella, Queen of the Skies by Eoin Colfer Opposites by Roald Dahl 1, 2, 3 by Roald Dahl The Day War Came by Nicola Davies The Hippo at the End of the Hall by Helen Cooper The Adventures of John Blake: Mystery of the Ghost Ship by Philip Pullman
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month June 2018 Day and Night, Big and Small, Hungry and Full - learn your opposites with the Enormous Crocodile! With lots of flaps for busy little hands, this sturdy board book is the perfect introduction to the world of Roald Dahl. Lovereading Comment to follow. Commissioning editor Carmen McCullough said: "We are thrilled to be launching Roald Dahl publishing for pre-school readers for the very first time in 2018. The Enormous Crocodile is the perfect character to introduce Dahl to a younger audience: bringing just the right amount of humour and mischief to these core first concept titles, which promise to entertain parents too. We already know Quentin Blake's unmistakeable and expressive illustrations have huge appeal to younger readers, and are confident this exciting expansion will help create a whole new generation of Roald Dahl fans." Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for June 2018: Mariella, Queen of the Skies by Eoin Colfer Opposites by Roald Dahl 1, 2, 3 by Roald Dahl The Day War Came by Nicola Davies The Hippo at the End of the Hall by Helen Cooper The Adventures of John Blake: Mystery of the Ghost Ship by Philip Pullman
Following on from Charlie's adventures in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Charlie has been given ownership of Wonka's factory, and the Great Glass Elevator is taking Charlie and his family off to claim his prize through the roof of their house. But things don't quite go to plan, with the Great Glass Elevator going just a bit too high - out into orbit in fact.
A classic Roald Dahl title, a most touching story of a boy and his very special father. Danny and his father live in a caravan parked right next to the garage where his father works. Danny father teaches him how to fix bits of car, reads him bedtime stories and introduces him to the wonders of nature. One night, Danny discovers his father has a secret. He is a brilliant poacher and he is determined to outwit the local gamekeepers. How Danny helps his father carry out his most daring plan of all without being caught is a thrilling read and a triumph for father and son.
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2017 Roald Dahl’s dramatic last story is perfectly matched for the first time by Quentin Blake’s new illustrations in a beautifully produced edition. Billy is told by his mum that he must never go out through the garden gate and into the dark wood. But how can he resist the attraction of the wood and what is in it? Billy heads into the wood and meets the Minpins, delightful tiny creatures who live inside the hollow trees. And the Minpins are terrified. The dreadful Gruncher is destroying them and they need Billy’s help to stop him. Soon Billy finds himself at the centre of a thrilling adventure that is literally a matter of life and death. Roald Dahl’s story-telling skills look as bright as ever. ~ Julia Eccleshare Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for September 2017 Goth Girl and the Sinister Symphony by Chris Riddell A Skinful of Shadows by Frances Hardinge This Book Isn't Safe! by Colin Furze The Grotlyn by Benji Davies Billy and the Minpins by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake Toto: The Dog-Gone Amazing Story of The Wizard of Oz by Michael Morpurgo The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf Birthday Boy by David Baddiel
A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month March 2017 A great collection of simple semi-scientific experiments perfect for curious children to do at home. In Roald Dahl’s George’s Marvellous Medicine, the hero famously makes some evil potions to see off his horrible grandma. Now anyone can have a go. In this book there is a Foaming Fizzy Potion which will satisfyingly froth right up and out of the cup – just don’t try drinking it! And an equally disgusting Boogie Gloop which can be made to dance if set on a speaker with the music turned up to full volume. There’s also stuff to do with magnets, potatoes, worms and candy crystals and loads more. A sprinkling of Quentin Blake illustrations adds to the delight of this book. ~ Julia Eccleshare ***There is special activity pack with ideas to celebrate Science Week to download here! British Science Week is 10–19 March - find out more at www.britishscienceweek.org ----------------------------------------------- Julia Eccleshare's Picks of the Month for March 2017 Jellicle Cats by T.S. Eliot and Arthur Robins William Bee's Wonderful World of Trucks by William Bee The Story of the Dancing Frog by Quentin Blake George's Marvellous Experiments inspired by Roald Dahl and illustrated by Quentin Blake My Name is Victoria by Lucy Worsley Many Moons by Remi Courgeon Freddie Mole, Lion Tamer by Alexanda McCall Smith Black Cats and Butlers by Janine Beacham Triangle by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen
Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in glorious full colour! A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won a golden ticket. However each child gets their comeuppance in some way, except Charlie of course. Brilliant.
Best-selling Roald Dahl has delighted children for half a century and this 50th anniversary edition celebrates that amazing feat. His titles show no sign of ageing and thankfully they never will as all of them are timeless classics. From the moment the magical Giant Peach appears in James’s unhappy life, sweeps away his deadly Aunts Spiker and Sponge and lifts him off on the adventure of a life time all readers know they are in for a treat. Up and up the Giant Peach flies allowing James to have a host of magical adventures including an encounter with the deadly Cloud Men before the final touch down. A classic story that can be read again and again. For added fun: Roald Dahl Day is on 13th September every year. This year's celebrations focus lots of attention on the 50th anniversary of James and the Giant Peach but that's not everything. Why not get the kids to click on some of the links below to see what a huge amount of fun they can have, from joining the mission to push peaches around the world or organising a reading relay. For year round fun with Roald Dahl click here.
There’s trickery afoot in this touching and brief story. Mr Hoppy loves his garden and he (secretly) loves Mrs Silver. Mrs Silver is oblivious of what Mr Hoppy feels and she gives all of her love to her tortoise! Mr Hoppy realises that the way to Mrs Silver’s heart is to help to make the tortoise grow. But how can he do that? Mr Hoppy comes up with a clever plan. Everyone is happy. Roald Dahl is a master of invention and his love of clever tricks – and here they are unusually nice ones - permeate this delicious story. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach in glorious full colour! From the moment the magical Giant Peach appears in James’s unhappy life, sweeps away his deadly Aunts Spiker and Sponge and lifts him off on the adventure of a life time all readers know they are in for a treat. Up and up the Giant Peach flies allowing James to have a host of magical adventures including an encounter with the deadly Cloud Men before the final touch down. A classic story that can be read again and again. The text is perfectly complemented with colour illustrations by Quentin Blake. **note the extract available is the black & white illustrated edition.
Roald Dahl's Matilda in glorious full colour! Matilda - Roald Dahl's best-loved story - though now over 25 years old, is as fresh, funny and poignant as when it was first published in 1988. The story of a child genius, it has been adapted into film and, most recently, a hugely successful, award-winning musical with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. ** note the extract is taken from Matilda with black & white illustrations.
Greetings to you, the lucky finder of this little box - tremendous postcards are inside. From Golden Tickets and giant peaches to thank you, good-luck and congratulations cards, it's filled with magic!
A truly marvellous set of hardbacks, each with stunning jackets in a FANTABULOUS giftbox, published to celebrate Roald Dahl 100! A review for The BFG: This is a delightful, funny and exciting story, about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with colour illustrations by Quentin Blake.
A splendiferous new hardback of The BFG, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. This is a delightful, funny and exciting story, about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with colour illustrations by Quentin Blake.
A splendiferous new hardback of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won a golden ticket. However each child gets their comeuppance in some way, except Charlie of course. Brilliant.
A splendiferous new hardback of Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. Following on from Charlie's adventures in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Charlie has been given ownership of Wonka's factory, and the Great Glass Elevator is taking Charlie and his family off to claim his prize through the roof of their house. But things don't quite go to plan, with the Great Glass Elevator going just a bit too high - out into orbit in fact.
A splendiferous new hardback of Danny the Champion of the World, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. A classic Roald Dahl title, a most touching story of a boy and his very special father. Danny and his father live in a caravan parked right next to the garage where his father works. Danny father teaches him how to fix bits of car, reads him bedtime stories and introduces him to the wonders of nature. One night, Danny discovers his father has a secret. He is a brilliant poacher and he is determined to outwit the local gamekeepers. How Danny helps his father carry out his most daring plan of all without being caught is a thrilling read and a triumph for father and son.
A splendiferous new hardback of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. Ideal as an early introduction to Roald Dahl just as a child is starting to read alone because it’s a short story by comparison to some of his others. Filled with quirky black and white illustrations by the wonderful Quentin Blake that complement the story so beautifully. As three of the nastiest and most crooked farmers vow to wreak revenge on the foxes eating their chickens, little do they know what the foxes have in store for them. ~ Julia Eccleshare
A splendiferous new hardback of George's Marvellous Medicine, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. George's grandma is a grizzly, grumpy, selfish woman with pale brown teeth and a small puckered-up mouth like a dog's bottom. Four times a day she takes a large spoonful of thick brown medicine, but it doesn't seem to do her any good. She's always just as horrid after she's taken it as she was before. So when George is left alone to look after her one morning, it's just the chance he needs...
A splendiferous new hardback of James and the Giant Peach, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. From the moment the magical Giant Peach appears in James’s unhappy life, sweeps away his deadly Aunts Spiker and Sponge and lifts him off on the adventure of a life time all readers know they are in for a treat. Up and up the Giant Peach flies allowing James to have a host of magical adventures including an encounter with the deadly Cloud Men before the final touch down. A classic story that can be read again and again.
A splendiferous new hardback of Matilda, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. Matilda - Roald Dahl's best-loved story - though now over 25 years old, is as fresh, funny and poignant as when it was first published in 1988. The story of a child genius, it has been adapted into film and, most recently, a hugely successful, award-winning musical with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.
A splendiferous new hardback of The Twits, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. Mr and Mrs Twit are possibly the vilest of all Roald Dahl’s creations. They are ugly on the inside, as is evident from the cruel tricks they play on each other and the way they treat the Muggle-Wump monkeys, and utterly disgusting on the outside! The very thought of Mrs Twit’s cooking is enough to make grown-ups turn green, and as for Mr Twit’s beard … ~ Andrea Reece
A splendiferous new hardback of The Witches, part of a collection of truly delumptious classic Roald Dahl titles with stylish jackets over surprise printed colour cases, and exquisite endpaper designs. The Witches, first published in 1983 and is reissued here for the Roald Dahl Centenary, and as with many of Dahl's works it is wonderfully illustrated throughout by Quentin Blake. A young boy and his grandmother uncover a plot by The Witches to get rid of every single child on earth.
Roald Dahl takes on the likes of Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Goldilocks and The Three Little Pigs and brings us a brilliant collection of comic and often gory versions of popular fairy tales. Dahl's Gobblefunk is brought to life with full colour illustrations by Quentin Blake making this a delight for fans young and old.
A collection of comic and often gory versions of popular fairy tales. Meet Cinderella, a young woman who wants to marry a nice ordinary man, and Goldilocks, that house-breaker who gobbles up your porridge and then breaks up the Chippendale.
Roald Dahl takes on the likes of Little Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Goldilocks and The Three Little Pigs and brings us a brilliant collection of comic and often gory versions of popular fairy tales. Dahl's Gobblefunk is brought to life with full colour illustrations by Quentin Blake making this a delight for fans young and old.
Roald Dahl's BFG in glorious full colour! This is a delightful, funny and exciting story, about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with colour illustrations by Quentin Blake. ***Note this extract is taken from The BFG with black & white illustrations.
Roald Dahl's wondercrump collection of animal rhymes featuring grisly beasts out for human blood, ranging from Gocky-Wock the crocodile to Sting-A-Ling the scorpion. With full colour illustrations by Quentin Blake this will make a wonderful addition to your 'forever keeps' pile.
Mr and Mrs Twit are possibly the vilest of all Roald Dahl’s creations. They are ugly on the inside, as is evident from the cruel tricks they play on each other and the way they treat the Muggle-Wump monkeys, and utterly disgusting on the outside! The very thought of Mrs Twit’s cooking is enough to make grown-ups turn green, and as for Mr Twit’s beard … ~ Andrea Reece This edition features full colour illustrations by Quentin Blake.
Special Film Tie-in Edition This is a delightful, funny and exciting story, about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with colour illustrations by Quentin Blake. The BFG movie is released 22 July! Directed by Steven Spielberg, produced by Disney and inspired by Roald Dahl, it stars Mark Rylance as The BFG himself and newcomer Ruby Barnhill as young orphan Sophie. Keep up with the movie news on The BFG Movie facebook page!
This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with colour illustrations by Quentin Blake. In July The BFG movie is released! Directed by Steven Spielberg, produced by Disney and inspired by Roald Dahl, it stars Mark Rylance as The BFG himself and newcomer Ruby Barnhill as young orphan Sophie. Keep up with the movie news on The BFG Movie facebook page!
The Enormous Crocodile is planning what to have for his lunch. This foul fiend - the greediest croc in the whole river - wants to eat something juicy and delicious. His teeth sparkle like knives in the sun and he's getting hungrier and hungrier. But what can the greedy grumptious brute guzzle up?
Ideal as an early introduction to Roald Dahl just as a child is starting to read alone because it’s a short story by comparison to some of his others. Filled with quirky black and white illustrations by the wonderful Quentin Blake that complement the story so beautifully. As three of the nastiest and most crooked farmers vow to wreak revenge on the foxes eating their chickens, little do they know what the foxes have in store for them. ~ Julia Eccleshare
George's grandma is a grizzly, grumpy, selfish woman with pale brown teeth and a small puckered-up mouth like a dog's bottom. Four times a day she takes a large spoonful of thick brown medicine, but it doesn't seem to do her any good. She's always just as horrid after she's taken it as she was before. So when George is left alone to look after her one morning, it's just the chance he needs...
Take a giraffe with a magic neck, a pelican with a retractable beak and a very agile monkey, and what do you have? The world's finest Ladderless Window-Cleaning Company, of course! Add in their friend Billy, the Duke and Duchess of Hampshire and the Cobra, the cleverest and most dangerous cat-burglar in the world, and you have all the ingredients for a deliciously funny tale - all in the pursuit of walnuts, salmon and the pink and purple flowers of the tinkle-tinkle tree, not to mention the Grand Opening of The Grubber...
The story of an unusual little girl who has magical powers. When someone makes her angry, she zaps a punishment on them with her magic, flashing finger!
Divided into four themed sections - Animals; Magic; Family, Friends and Foes; and, Matters of Importance, this collection of extracts, poems, letters and memoirs introduces some of the author's characters from Willy Wonka to the BFG, from the Witches to the Twits. It contains a touch of magic and is suitable for the author's fans.
Throughout this book, you can delve into stories, poems, memoirs and letters galore all wonderfully illustrated by Quentin Blake as well as other well-known artists, including Raymond Briggs, Babette Cole, Posy Simmonds and Ralph Steadman. This book is the perfect gift for Roald Dahl fans 'Those who don't believe in magic will never find it', Roald Dahl told his readers. Every page of this stunning gift book contains a touch of magic and will delight existing fans as well as those who have yet to discover Dahl's genius.
"In the biggest, brownest muddiest river in Africa, two crocodiles lay with their heads just above the water. One of the crocodiles was enormouse. The other was not so big." One of Roald Dahl's best-loved books. The Enormous Crocodile is out hunting for his tea...and his favourite meal is children!
A memoir of Roald Dahl's childhood containing some hilariously true stories, such as the great mouse plot of 1924, when an eight-year-old Dahl and his gobstopper-loving friends took a just revenge on the disgusting sweetshop owner Mrs Pratchett.
A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won a golden ticket. However each child gets their comeuppance in some way, except Charlie of course. Brilliant. Click here to see our Favourite Top 10 Dahl Books
James' aunts call him names, beat and starve him and make his life a misery. If only his parents hadn't been eaten by an escaped rhinoceros, he wouldn't be in this mess. But one day he meets a man who gives him a bag of magic crocodile tongues and so begins the adventure of his dreams.
The story of an unusual little girl who has magical powers. When someone makes her angry, she zaps a punishment on them with her magic, flashing finger! This edition also has an author biography.
Ideal as an early introduction to Roald Dahl just as a child is starting to read alone because it’s a short story by comparison to some of his others. Filled with quirky black and white illustrations by the wonderful Quentin Blake that complement the story so beautifully. As three of the nastiest and most crooked farmers vow to wreak revenge on the foxes eating their chickens, little do they know what the foxes have in store for them.
An omnibus edition with two books of memoirs detailing some of the remarkable things that happened to Roald Dahl as a boy and young man. "I have never been able to get them out of my mind, some are funny, some are painful, some are unpleasant, all are true".
This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with illustrations by Quentin Blake. Unbelievably moving. Click here to see our Favourite Top 10 Dahl Books Perfect for Reluctant Readers as well as keen readers. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here.
In this special edition there's a page of disgustingly smelly scratch-and-sniff stickers to decorate Mr Twit's beard included too! Yuck!. Mr and Mrs Twit are possibly the vilest of all Roald Dahl’s creations. They are ugly on the inside, as is evident from the cruel tricks they play on each other and the way they treat the Muggle-Wump monkeys, and utterly disgusting on the outside! The very thought of Mrs Twit’s cooking is enough to make grown-ups turn green, and as for Mr Twit’s beard … It’s hard to think of a book that is better suited to the addition of scratch and sniff stickers than this viscerally effective tale! It should probably come with a warning for adults but children will relish using the very stinky stickers to make Mr Twit’s beard even more disgusting! ~ Andrea Reece
The Witches was first published in 1983 and is repackaged here for the 30th Anniversary. As with many of Dahl's works it is wonderfully illustrated throughout by Quentin Blake. A young boy and his grandmother uncover a plot by The Witches to get rid of every single child on earth.
This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with illustrations by Quentin Blake. WIGGLE YOUR EARS! This new edition includes MAKE-YOUR-OWN GIANT EARS for dress-up.
Roald Dahl writing about his own childhood is a treat for any Dahl fan - young or old. These stories are warm, touching, funny and show the development of one of our most treasured children's writers. "An autobiography is a book a person writes about his own life and it is usually full of all sorts of boring details. This is not an autobiography." Roald Dahl
A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won a golden ticket. However each child gets their comeuppance in some way, except Charlie of course. Brilliant.
Following on from Charlie's adventures in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Charlie has been given ownership of Wonka's factory, and the Great Glass Elevator is taking Charlie and his family off to claim his prize through the roof of their house. But things don't quite go to plan, with the Great Glass Elevator going just a bit too high - out into orbit in fact.
A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won a golden ticket. However each child gets their comeuppance in some way, except Charlie of course. Brilliant.
A classic Roald Dahl title, a most touching story of a boy and his very special father. Danny and his father live in a caravan parked right next to the garage where his father works. Danny father teaches him how to fix bits of car, reads him bedtime stories and introduces him to the wonders of nature. One night, Danny discovers his father has a secret. He is a brilliant poacher and he is determined to outwit the local gamekeepers. How Danny helps his father carry out his most daring plan of all without being caught is a thrilling read and a triumph for father and son.
A classic Roald Dahl title, a most touching story of a boy and his very special father. Danny and his father live in a caravan parked right next to the garage where his father works. Danny father teaches him how to fix bits of car, reads him bedtime stories and introduces him to the wonders of nature. One night, Danny discovers his father has a secret. He is a brilliant poacher and he is determined to outwit the local gamekeepers. How Danny helps his father carry out his most daring plan of all without being caught is a thrilling read and a triumph for father and son.
There’s trickery afoot in this touching and brief story. Mr Hoppy loves his garden and he (secretly) loves Mrs Silver. Mrs Silver is oblivious of what Mr Hoppy feels and she gives all of her love to her tortoise! Mr Hoppy realises that the way to Mrs Silver’s heart is to help to make the tortoise grow. But how can he do that? Mr Hoppy comes up with a clever plan. Everyone is happy. Roald Dahl is a master of invention and his love of clever tricks – and here they are unusually nice ones - permeate this delicious story. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Ideal as an early introduction to Roald Dahl just as a child is starting to read alone because it’s a short story by comparison to some of his others. Filled with quirky black and white illustrations by the wonderful Quentin Blake that complement the story so beautifully. As three of the nastiest and most crooked farmers vow to wreak revenge on the foxes eating their chickens, little do they know what the foxes have in store for them. ~ Julia Eccleshare
George's grandma is a grizzly, grumpy, selfish woman with pale brown teeth and a small puckered-up mouth like a dog's bottom. Four times a day she takes a large spoonful of thick brown medicine, but it doesn't seem to do her any good. She's always just as horrid after she's taken it as she was before. So when George is left alone to look after her one morning, it's just the chance he needs...
Take a giraffe with a magic neck, a pelican with a retractable beak and a very agile monkey, and what do you have? The world's finest Ladderless Window-Cleaning Company, of course! Add in their friend Billy, the Duke and Duchess of Hampshire and the Cobra, the cleverest and most dangerous cat-burglar in the world, and you have all the ingredients for a deliciously funny tale - all in the pursuit of walnuts, salmon and the pink and purple flowers of the tinkle-tinkle tree, not to mention the Grand Opening of The Grubber...
Everyone who has entered 'the brilliantly colored, sometimes grotesque and sometimes magical world Dahl has conjured up in Boy', as Claire Tomalin described it in the Sunday Times, will be longing to learn what happens to the supreme storyteller next in Going Solo - and they will not be disappointed. It is a tale of deadly snakes on the ground and daring deeds in the air, of African safaris and encounters with the Hun, told with all the irresistible appeal which has made Roald Dahl one of the world's best-loved writers both for adults and for children.
From the moment the magical Giant Peach appears in James’s unhappy life, sweeps away his deadly Aunts Spiker and Sponge and lifts him off on the adventure of a life time all readers know they are in for a treat. Up and up the Giant Peach flies allowing James to have a host of magical adventures including an encounter with the deadly Cloud Men before the final touch down. A classic story that can be read again and again.
Every Saturday morning the Greg family goes off to shoot animals and birds. But the girl who lives next door hates hunting. Now it's made her so angry she's put the magic finger on them all. And very strange things have begun to happen...
Matilda - Roald Dahl's best-loved story - though now over 25 years old, is as fresh, funny and poignant as when it was first published in 1988. The story of a child genius, it has been adapted into film and, most recently, a hugely successful, award-winning musical with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.
Mr and Mrs Twit are possibly the vilest of all Roald Dahl’s creations. They are ugly on the inside, as is evident from the cruel tricks they play on each other and the way they treat the Muggle-Wump monkeys, and utterly disgusting on the outside! The very thought of Mrs Twit’s cooking is enough to make grown-ups turn green, and as for Mr Twit’s beard … ~ Andrea Reece
The Witches, first published in 1983 and is reissued here for the Roald Dahl Centenary, and as with many of Dahl's works it is wonderfully illustrated throughout by Quentin Blake. A young boy and his grandmother uncover a plot by The Witches to get rid of every single child on earth.
Roald Dahl wasn't always a writer. Once he was just a schoolboy. Have you ever wondered what he was like growing up?
This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with illustrations by Quentin Blake. Unbelievably moving.
A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won a golden ticket. However each child gets their comeuppance in some way, except Charlie of course. Brilliant.
There’s trickery afoot in this touching and brief story. Mr Hoppy loves his garden and he (secretly) loves Mrs Silver. Mrs Silver is oblivious of what Mr Hoppy feels and she gives all of her love to her tortoise! Mr Hoppy realises that the way to Mrs Silver’s heart is to help to make the tortoise grow. But how can he do that? Mr Hoppy comes up with a clever plan. Everyone is happy. Roald Dahl is a master of invention and his love of clever tricks – and here they are unusually nice ones - permeate this delicious story. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Matilda - Roald Dahl's best-loved story - is an unbelievable 25 years old yet it's as fresh, funny and poignant as when it was first published in 1988. The story of a child genius, it has been adapted into film and, most recently, a hugely successful, award-winning musical with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin. To celebrate her birthday Puffin Books has created this gorgeous pink slipcase edition with 6 full colour plates of Quentin Blake's iconic illustrations.
All you'll ever need to make Mischief and Mayhem with extracts from Roald Dahl's best loved books including Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, Matilda and The BFG and pages of fun activities and projects. September 13th is Roald Dahl Day, although in reality the fun lasts all the way through September. This is the 8th annual celebration of Roald Dahl's work and there are all sorts of fun things planned....visit the website & make a date with Mischief and Mayhem!! www.roalddahlday.info
The Witches was first published in 1983 and is repackaged here for the 30th Anniversary. As with many of Dahl's works it is wonderfully illustrated throughout by Quentin Blake. A young boy and his grandmother uncover a plot by The Witches to get rid of every single child on earth.
The Witches, first published in 1983 and is reissued here for the Roald Dahl Centenary, and as with many of Dahl's works it is wonderfully illustrated throughout by Quentin Blake. A young boy and his grandmother uncover a plot by The Witches to get rid of every single child on earth.
This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with illustrations by Quentin Blake. Unbelievably moving. Click here to see our Favourite Top 10 Dahl Books Perfect for Reluctant Readers as well as keen readers. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here.
Best-selling Roald Dahl has delighted children for half a century and this 50th anniversary edition celebrates that amazing feat. His titles show no sign of ageing and thankfully they never will as all of them are timeless classics. From the moment the magical Giant Peach appears in James’s unhappy life, sweeps away his deadly Aunts Spiker and Sponge and lifts him off on the adventure of a life time all readers know they are in for a treat. Up and up the Giant Peach flies allowing James to have a host of magical adventures including an encounter with the deadly Cloud Men before the final touch down. A classic story that can be read again and again. For added fun: Roald Dahl Day is on 13th September every year. This year's celebrations focus lots of attention on the 50th anniversary of James and the Giant Peach but that's not everything. Why not get the kids to click on some of the links below to see what a huge amount of fun they can have, from joining the mission to push peaches around the world or organising a reading relay. For year round fun with Roald Dahl click here.
Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach in glorious full colour! From the moment the magical Giant Peach appears in James’s unhappy life, sweeps away his deadly Aunts Spiker and Sponge and lifts him off on the adventure of a life time all readers know they are in for a treat. Up and up the Giant Peach flies allowing James to have a host of magical adventures including an encounter with the deadly Cloud Men before the final touch down. A classic story that can be read again and again. The text is perfectly complemented with colour illustrations by Quentin Blake. **note the extract available is the black & white illustrated edition.
October 2011 Guest Editor Roddy Doyle. All of Dahl’s books are great, but this one stands out for two reasons: 1. the poaching plans, and the poaching itself, are brilliantly precise and an invitation to the reader to choose poaching as a career, or at least a hobby; and, 2. the love between the father and son is wonderfully written, and probably the best I’ve read.
Best loved author Roald Dahl provides a treasure trove of quirky and delicious stories and scenes of make-believe taken from his bestselling books. Dahl himself loved secrets and so the uncovering of snippets of facts about him such as his high risk strategy of riding out on his motor bike on Sundays from his boarding school seems especially good fun. It’s a wonderful introduction to the writing of a great author and is just one of a number of Pocket Money Puffins. To view others click here.
A feast of fabulous recipes drawn from Roald Dahl’s best selling stories. Fans of Matilda will love the deliciously chocolatey recipe for Billy Bogtrotter’s Cake. And George’s Marvellous Medicine Chicken Soup will slip down a treat while Boggis’s Chicken which includes dumplings and parsley sauce will provide a whole scrumptious meal. All the recipe’s are easy to follow and reflect Roald Dahl’s own passion for scrumptious food!
Full of wit, daring and surprise, Roald Dahl’s rhymes offer a feast of magical moments. This new edition includes some previously unpublished verses as well as wonderful new illustrations. Click here to see our Favourite Top 10 Dahl Books
If you're a fan of Roald Dahl's books then this is an absolute must and a treat in store awaits you. It's the perfect book to remind you of one of your favourite authors each and every day. If by some chance you've yet to come across a Roald Dahl book, then what I can assure you is that by dipping into this Dahlmanac it won't be long before your hooked on his books. So, why not keep a copy in your school bag and when you're in need of cheering up or a laugh during one of those less than interesting lessons, just get it out. Rest assured Roald would love you for it though your teacher might take a dim view if you're caught!!.
This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with illustrations by Quentin Blake. Unbelievably moving. Click here to see our Favourite Top 10 Dahl Books Perfect for Reluctant Readers as well as keen readers. To view other titles we think are suitable for reluctant readers please click here.
In this special edition there's a page of disgustingly smelly scratch-and-sniff stickers to decorate Mr Twit's beard included too! Yuck!. Mr and Mrs Twit are possibly the vilest of all Roald Dahl’s creations. They are ugly on the inside, as is evident from the cruel tricks they play on each other and the way they treat the Muggle-Wump monkeys, and utterly disgusting on the outside! The very thought of Mrs Twit’s cooking is enough to make grown-ups turn green, and as for Mr Twit’s beard … It’s hard to think of a book that is better suited to the addition of scratch and sniff stickers than this viscerally effective tale! It should probably come with a warning for adults but children will relish using the very stinky stickers to make Mr Twit’s beard even more disgusting! ~ Andrea Reece
This is a delightful, funny and exciting story about a special friendship between two people from different worlds – a giant and a child. As the story develops it shows how trust and love develops between them. It also shows that bullying must not be tolerated and Dahl is at his might best here by eventually ensuring the big bad giants get their comeuppance whilst the big friendly giant wins the day alongside the little girl Sophie. The text is perfectly complemented with illustrations by Quentin Blake. WIGGLE YOUR EARS! This new edition includes MAKE-YOUR-OWN GIANT EARS for dress-up.
Mr and Mrs Twit are possibly the vilest of all Roald Dahl’s creations. They are ugly on the inside, as is evident from the cruel tricks they play on each other and the way they treat the Muggle-Wump monkeys, and utterly disgusting on the outside! The very thought of Mrs Twit’s cooking is enough to make grown-ups turn green, and as for Mr Twit’s beard … ~ Andrea Reece
Mr Hoppy, a retired bachelor, harbours a secret passion for the attractive widow Mrs Silver. Unfortunately she lavishes all her affection on another - Alfie, her pet tortoise. Mr Hoppy's plot to defeat his rival and win the love of his lady involves a cryptic riddle and no fewer than 140 tortoises!
Divided into four themed sections - Animals; Magic; Family, Friends and Foes; and, Matters of Importance, this collection of extracts, poems, letters and memoirs introduces some of the author's characters from Willy Wonka to the BFG, from the Witches to the Twits. It contains a touch of magic and is suitable for the author's fans.
Throughout this book, you can delve into stories, poems, memoirs and letters galore all wonderfully illustrated by Quentin Blake as well as other well-known artists, including Raymond Briggs, Babette Cole, Posy Simmonds and Ralph Steadman. This book is the perfect gift for Roald Dahl fans 'Those who don't believe in magic will never find it', Roald Dahl told his readers. Every page of this stunning gift book contains a touch of magic and will delight existing fans as well as those who have yet to discover Dahl's genius.
Matilda - Roald Dahl's best-loved story - is an unbelievable 25 years old yet it's as fresh, funny and poignant as when it was first published in 1988. The story of a child genius, it has been adapted into film and, most recently, a hugely successful, award-winning musical with music and lyrics by Tim Minchin.
A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won a golden ticket. However each child gets their comeuppance in some way, except Charlie of course. Brilliant. Click here to see our Favourite Top 10 Dahl Books
Ideal as an early introduction to Roald Dahl just as a child is starting to read alone because it’s a short story by comparison to some of his others. Filled with quirky black and white illustrations by the wonderful Quentin Blake that complement the story so beautifully. As three of the nastiest and most crooked farmers vow to wreak revenge on the foxes eating their chickens, little do they know what the foxes have in store for them.
A book that requires no introduction as it is probably Dahl’s best-known and most read creation and deservedly so. The secretive and magical world of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory is revealed to five ‘lucky’ children, each of who has won a golden ticket. However each child gets their comeuppance in some way, except Charlie of course. Brilliant.
Ideal as an early introduction to Roald Dahl just as a child is starting to read alone because it’s a short story by comparison to some of his others. Filled with quirky black and white illustrations by the wonderful Quentin Blake that complement the story so beautifully. As three of the nastiest and most crooked farmers vow to wreak revenge on the foxes eating their chickens, little do they know what the foxes have in store for them. ~ Julia Eccleshare
Forget what you thought about Roald Dahl from the BFG, The Twits and Matilda. Here is a collection of some his most intriguing, dark, macabre, yet always entertaining short stories aimed for the older teen. Dahl manages to inject black humour and irony into these tales, most of which contain savage twists, covering topics such as revenge, envy, greed, misfortune and other less pleasant elements of humanity. Guaranteed to keep you reading long into the night.
Spot the shapes with Roald Dahl and the Enormous Crocodile! What shapes can you see? There's: A big round sun A whirling, swirling kite And sharp, pointy teeth! Busy little hands can lift the flaps to discover the shapes with iconic illustrations of Dahl's much loved characters from the one and only, Quentin Blake. More marvellous books for titchy toddlers: Roald Dahl's Opposites Roald Dahl's 123 Roald Dahl's Colours Roald Dahl's ABC Roald Dahl's Words My Dad is Fantastic
Discover marvellous and revolting first words with Roald Dahl! There are an ENORMOUS amount of words to learn in this brightly colourful board book, including: Cake Books Bugs Crocodiles With fantastic illustrations from Quentin Blake, this is the perfect book for little ones to discover the wonderful world of Dahl. More marvellous books for titchy toddlers: Roald Dahl's Opposites Roald Dahl's 123 Roald Dahl's Colours Roald Dahl's ABC Roald Dahl's Words My Dad is Fantastic
Roald Dahl flew planes in the Second World War (1939-1945) when Germany, Italy and Japan fought against Britain, France, Poland, other European countries, the USSR and the United States of America. Going Solo is Dahl's time with the RAF (Royal Air Force). He writes I did not need to leave out anything here because every moment was, to me, totally interesting. Penguin Readers is a series of popular classics, exciting contemporary fiction, and thought-provoking non-fiction written for learners of English as a foreign language. Beautifully illustrated and carefully adapted, the series introduces language learners around the world to the bestselling authors and most compelling content from Penguin Random House. The eight levels of Penguin Readers follow the Common European Framework and include language activitiesthat help readers to develop key skills.
The perfect gift for your FANTASTIC dad this Father's Day! My Dad is FANTASTIC He's clever, kind and wise. You'll know he's really smiling By the twinkle in his eyes! A read-aloud rhyming board book that celebrates dads everywhere - from their most FANTASTIC moments to their most magnificent WHIZZPOPS! More marvellous books for titchy toddlers: Roald Dahl's Colours Roald Dahl's ABC Roald Dahl's Opposites Roald Dahl's 123
With the extraordinary chocolate tycoon Willy Wonka as your host, join Roald Dahl's best-loved characters for a bumper activity book that will keep boredom at bay and chiddlers at play. Stuffed full of 365 marvellous activities, puzzles and more that will keep entertainment flowing for every day of the year. Perfect for summer holidays and rainy days, open up Wonka's factory and bring on the fun!
Mrs. Silver loves her tortoise, Alfie. Mr. Hoppy loves Mrs. Silver. Will Mr. Hoppy's big idea make him brave enough to tell her? Ladybird Readers is a graded reading series of traditional tales, popular characters, modern stories, and non-fiction, written for young learners of English as a foreign or second language. Beautifully illustrated and carefully written, the series combines the best of Ladybird content with the structured language progression that will help children develop their reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking skills. The eight levels of Readers and Activity Books follow the CEFR framework and include language activities that provide preparation for the Cambridge English: Young Learners (YLE) exams. Roald Dahl: Esio Trot Activity Book, a Level 4 Activity Book, is A2 in the CEFR framework and supports YLE Flyers exams. The activities encourage children to practice longer sentences with up to three clauses, more complex past and future tense structures, modal verbs and a wider variety of conjunctions.
In the jungle lives an enormous crocodile with clever ideas. He wants to eat children. Will the animals in the jungle keep the children safe? Ladybird Readers is a graded reading series of traditional tales, popular characters, modern stories, and non-fiction, written for young learners of English as a foreign or second language. Beautifully illustrated and carefully written, the series combines the best of Ladybird content with the structured language progression that will help children develop their reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking skills. The eight levels of Readers and Activity Books follow the CEFR framework and include language activities that provide preparation for the Cambridge English: Young Learners (YLE) exams. Roald Dahl: The Enormous Crocodile, a Level 3 Activity Book, is A1+ in the CEFR framework and supports YLE Movers exams. The activities encourage children to practice longer sentences with up to three clauses, some expression of future meaning, comparisons, contractions and relative clauses.
One day, Billy meets the Giraffe, the Pelican, and the Monkey, who wash windows to buy food. Will Billy help the animals? Ladybird Readers is a graded reading series of traditional tales, popular characters, modern stories, and non-fiction, written for young learners of English as a foreign or second language. Beautifully illustrated and carefully written, the series combines the best of Ladybird content with the structured language progression that will help children develop their reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking skills. The eight levels of Readers and Activity Books follow the CEFR framework and include language activities that provide preparation for the Cambridge English: Young Learners (YLE) exams. Roald Dahl: The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me, a Level 3 Activity Book, is A1+ in the CEFR framework and supports YLE Movers exams. The activities encourage children to practice longer sentences with up to three clauses, some expression of future meaning, comparisons, contractions and relative clauses.
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