Roald Dahl

One interesting fact about Roald Dahl is that he is the author behind some of the best-loved children’s books of all time, including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The BFG, Matilda and The Twits.

Novelist

September 13, 1916

Virgo

November 23, 1990

74

Llandaff, Wales

Roald Dahl, a renowned British novelist, short story writer, and screenwriter, is best known for his beloved children’s books such as “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “Matilda,” and “The BFG.” His unique writing style, characterized by absurdism, dark humor, and unexpected plot twists, has captivated readers of all ages. Dahl has also written scripts for television shows and movies, including the James Bond film “You Only Live Twice.” In 1983, he received the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement for his contributions to the fantasy genre. Dahl had a fascination with the macabre and unusual, which led him to become an avid collector of antique medical equipment.

Some of Dahl’s other famous children’s books include “The Twits,” “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” and “The Witches.” He also wrote works for older audiences, such as the short story collections “Tales of the Unexpected” and “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Six More.” Many of his stories have been adapted into films, celebrating Roald Dahl Story Day.

Born on September 13, 1916, in Llandaff, Cardiff, Wales, to Norwegian immigrants Harald and Sofie Dahl, Roald grew up speaking Norwegian at home with his parents and sisters. He experienced tragedy at a young age, losing his older sister Astri to appendicitis and his father to pneumonia when he was just three years old.

The Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre, an independent charity founded in 2001 by Dahl’s widow, Liccy, aims to further the education of the public in the art of literature and creativity by running a museum and literature center based on Dahl’s works. Roald Dahl Day is celebrated on September 13th to remember the author who wrote more than 20 children’s books.