6.27k reviews for:

Matilda

Roald Dahl

4.32 AVERAGE


Such a fun story! I love Ronald Dahl’s writing style. So descriptive and creative.

This book (as is typical for Roald Dahl) is a bit traumatic and disturbing. I'm glad it had a happy ending, but every single character in this little universe needs therapy for one reason or another. Still a fun read, somehow.
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

Like many of Roald Dahl's books, this is a must read. The story follows the life of an adorable yet brilliant 4 year old named Matilda who is a child prodigy, despite being under the influence of terrible parents. Laughs and gasps are guaranteed reactions to this classic.

"Matilda" by Roald Dahl is a cherished childhood classic that holds a special place in my heart. As a young reader, I was drawn into the whimsical world of Matilda Wormwood, a bright and spirited girl with a magical secret. Dahl's storytelling prowess captured my imagination, and I was enthralled by the misadventures and triumphs of this extraordinary young heroine.

One of the greatest strengths of "Matilda" is the enchanting and imaginative storytelling that Dahl brings to life. From the magical powers of Matilda to the eccentric characters like Miss Trunchbull and the lovable Miss Honey, the book is a treasure trove of unforgettable personalities.

Matilda's love for books and the importance of education resonated deeply with me. I felt a strong connection with her passion for knowledge and her determination to overcome obstacles through her intelligence and resourcefulness. Dahl's message of the transformative power of books left a lasting impact on my young mind. Furthermore, Dahl's clever use of language and dark humor kept me engaged throughout the story. His ability to infuse the narrative with both laughter and deeper themes is a hallmark of his writing style.

However, while I cherish "Matilda" dearly, there are some aspects that left me wanting a bit more. The character development, while captivating for the main characters, lacked depth for some secondary ones. I would have loved to explore Miss Trunchbull's motivations and background to better understand her complexities. Additionally, the ending felt somewhat abrupt and left me yearning for more closure on Matilda's future beyond the events at school. I wished for a more extensive glimpse into her life beyond the pages of the book.

In conclusion, "Matilda" is a captivating and cherished tale that fueled my imagination during my childhood years. Dahl's storytelling prowess, the magical world he created, and the celebration of knowledge make this book a timeless classic. However, the limited character development and the abrupt ending keep it from attaining a perfect rating. Nevertheless, "Matilda" remains a beloved story that continues to inspire readers of all ages.
funny lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix

A nice childrens book, I was suprised how close the movie came to the book.
adventurous dark hopeful lighthearted relaxing fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
dark funny inspiring fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

4⭐️


Oh, Roald Dahl, with your dreadful adults that plague the small children of the world! I definitely liked the second half - where she saves Miss Honey - better than the first half. I would have loved this as a child - it came out just a tad too late for my ultimate peak enjoyment.