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James And The Giant Peach

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1961

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Book Brief

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Roald Dahl

James And The Giant Peach

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1961
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1930s

Topic
Publication Year

1961

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

790L

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Super Short Summary

In James and the Giant Peach, young James Trotter lives with his abusive aunts until he discovers a giant peach and a group of friendly, giant insects inside. Together, they embark on an adventurous journey across the ocean to New York, overcoming various obstacles and forming deep bonds of friendship. The story concludes with their acceptance and success in New York, where James finds happiness. James's parents are eaten by a rhinoceros.

Fantastical

Adventurous

Humorous

Playful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

493,685 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach enchants readers with its imaginative plot and quirky characters. The whimsical adventure of James captivates children, though some find the narrative a bit dark. Its inventive storyline and Dahl's unique humor are praised, but critics note occasional macabre elements that may not suit all younger readers. Overall, it's a beloved classic.

Who should read this

Who Should Read James And The Giant Peach?

Readers who relish whimsical, imaginative adventures and clever storytelling will enjoy James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl. Fans of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory or Alice's Adventures in Wonderland will appreciate its blend of fantasy and humor, appealing to both children and adults who love classic tales of wonder and discovery.

4.4

493,685 ratings

73%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

James Henry Trotter

A seven-year-old orphan living with his cruel aunts, who embarks on an adventurous journey after encountering a magical peach and its insect inhabitants.

One of James's antagonistic aunts, known for her cruelty and narcissism, who forces James to work and sees him as a burden.

James’s other aunt, who is greedy and self-centered, often dreaming of fame and beauty, and shares in making James's life miserable.

A lively and cheeky giant insect with a penchant for mischief and 42 boots, adding humor and chaos to the group.

A giant, blind, and pessimistic insect who worries perpetually but displays courage when it matters.

A wise and fatherly figure among the insects, known for his musical talent and supportive nature toward James.

A gentle and motherly Nine Spotted Ladybug who warmly welcomes and comforts James throughout the journey.

A caring and loyal insect who shares her silk-spinning talents and offers James the warmth of an aunt.

A shy but kind insect providing light inside the peach with her glowing back, warmly accepting James into the group.

A quiet insect who is mostly passive but aids the group with her silk-spinning abilities.

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1930s

Topic
Publication Year

1961

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

790L

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