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45 pages 1 hour read

Danny, the Champion of the World

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1975

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Book Brief

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Roald Dahl

Danny, the Champion of the World

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1975
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1970s

Topic
Publication Year

1975

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

In Danny, the Champion of the World, nine-year-old Danny, living in an old Romani caravan with his father, William, discovers his father's secret passion for poaching. Together, they devise a plan to poach pheasants from a wealthy, unpleasant landowner, Victor Hazell, using sleeping pill-laced raisins. Their clever scheme results in a thrilling and humorous adventure, highlighting their deep bond and the community's spirit. This book contains references to bereavement.

Adventurous

Emotional

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Playful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

73,707 ratings

76%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of Roald Dahl's Danny, the Champion of the World highlight its charming father-son relationship and engaging storytelling. Readers praise its blend of humor, adventure, and warmth. However, some critique the whimsical plot's plausibility. Overall, it's deemed a heartwarming, imaginative tale, though not Dahl's most captivating work.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Danny, the Champion of the World?

A reader who would enjoy Danny, the Champion of the World by Roald Dahl is likely fond of heartwarming tales with elements of adventure and a strong father-son relationship. They might also appreciate books like The BFG and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which combine whimsy, charm, and moral lessons in a captivating narrative.

4.4

73,707 ratings

76%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Danny

Nine-year-old Danny, the narrator and protagonist, is a resourceful and brave boy who lives happily with his father in an old caravan. Despite growing up in poverty, he learns mechanics and other skills under his father's guidance, showcasing his ingenuity.

William, Danny’s father, is a loving and dedicated parent who owns a small garage. He is known for his creativity, storytelling, and love for poaching, which he shares with his son.

Doc Spencer is the village doctor and a friend of William, admired for his kindness and humor. Despite his age, he is an enthusiastic accomplice in William's plans and holds adversarial feelings toward Mr. Hazell.

Victor Hazell is the wealthy antagonist, known for his greed and desire for social acceptance. He owns a large estate and brewery and is at odds with the local community, including Danny and William.

Sergeant Samways is the village policeman and a longtime friend of William, balancing his official duties with a covert alliance against Mr. Hazell. He adds a humorous element with his distinctive Cockney accent.

Grace Clipstone is a respected village member, married to the vicar, who secretly assists William by leveraging her reputation. Her involvement adds a layer of mischievous respectability to the narrative.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1970s

Topic
Publication Year

1975

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

770L

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