Matilda by Roald Dahl

This touching and hilarious story is one of the best books of all time. I'm sure many of you have read it, so this is just a reminder to read it again and share it with your students. If you like Roald Dahl's other stories, you must read this one too. It is not only a wonderful novel for young readers, but also has the magically funny drawings by Quentin Blake.

The story is about a young girl, a very, very special young girl. Surprisingly, she is nothing at all like her parents; they are  crazy, egocentric and have no concern for their daughter. Her father is too busy scamming people at his used car shop to appreciate Matilda. She is a sweet young girl, and has a love for books. She even has some special powers. Matilda starts school and makes some friends; her classmate Lavender and her teacher Miss Honey. Along with her friends, her smarts and her special power, she is able to overcome the challenges brought on by her family and also the evil Headmistress Trunchbull. This book is the perfect balance of humor and inspiration. Matilda is a strong character that readers will absolutely fall in love with.

The book is great for elementary or middle school children, it is challenging with it's silly nonsense words and entertaining with its magical plot. The illustrations help to create the excitement and craziness of the characters, just looking at the picture of her father after the hat "mishap" will make you smile! This is a perfect book to read aloud to your students or your own child if they are not ready to read it themselves, the dialogue and descriptions are truly entertaining and will have everyone laughing out loud.

--Jana Kania, ERDL 524