I started dipping into this after watching the 1996 film adaptation of 'Matilda' (with Mara Wilson) last night. I couldn't remember much of the detail of the story as it must be thirty years or more since I read it to one of my sons. And once I'd finished the first chapter, I kept reading...

Matilda is a likeable and brilliant child, even if she has rather a taste for revenge. But nobody has taught her: she learns everything from books (after teaching herself to read at three). Her parents are unpleasant, and her school head, Miss Trunchbull, is one of Dahl's most appalling creations, a bully who terrorises her students, and who doesn't even like children.

It's not meant to be taken seriously but it was an enjoyable children's book with line drawings by Quentin Blake, and an inevitable happy ending, at least for two of the characters.

A good book for parents to read to (or with) young children.

Longer review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2024/06/matilda-by-roald-dahl.html ( )

A delightful and empowering tale that celebrates the power of intelligence and kindness, "Matilda" is a timeless classic that will inspire young readers.

I like to think of Matilda as Carrie in her formative years before she went on her murderous rampage; she was just testing her weapons. So be warned: if you mess with the wrong girl, you might be dealing with a telekinetic psycho. ( )

Ӕ

Tender, brutal, fun and warm. A story about a little girl surviving among toxic people. The headmistress at her school reminded me of a terrible coworker that i struggled with. I guess i'm not a little girl and i should know better how to stand strong against toxicity but it turns out to be quite a challenge even for an adult. Now that i've read Matilda i'm ready. Bring it on! ( )