Reading lists and articles featuring Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl Biography

Roald Dahl was born on September 13, 1916, in Llandaff, Wales. His parents were Norwegian, and he was the only son among his three sisters. Dahl attended several boarding schools in England, including Repton School, where he faced various challenges and experiences that would later influence his writing.

During World War II, Dahl joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) as a fighter pilot. He flew numerous missions and survived a plane crash in Libya, which left him with severe injuries. Dahl’s wartime experiences inspired his later works, particularly his collection of short stories titled “Over to You: Ten Stories of Flyers and Flying.”

After leaving the RAF, Roald Dahl began his writing career. His first published work was a story titled “Shot Down Over Libya,” which appeared in The Saturday Evening Post. He went on to write for various publications, including The New Yorker and Harper’s Magazine.

Dahl’s breakthrough as a children’s author came with the publication of his first book, “James and the Giant Peach,” in 1961. This fantastical tale, featuring a young boy and a group of anthropomorphic insects, captivated readers and established Dahl as a prominent figure in children’s literature.

Throughout his career, Dahl wrote numerous beloved children’s books, including:

• “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” (1964)
• “Matilda” (1988)
• “The BFG” (1982)
• “The Witches” (1983)

His stories often featured eccentric characters, dark humour, and unexpected plot twists, which appealed to both children and adults.

Roald Dahl’s works have had a lasting impact on children’s literature. His books have been translated into numerous languages and have sold over 250 million copies worldwide. Dahl’s unique storytelling style continues to captivate readers of all ages, and his characters have become iconic figures in popular culture.

In addition to his literary contributions, Dahl established Roald Dahl’s Marvellous Children’s Charity, which supports seriously ill children and their families. The charity provides specialized nurses, grants, and other forms of assistance to improve the lives of children facing serious health challenges.