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Matilda

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1988

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Book Brief

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Roald Dahl

Matilda

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1988
Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1980s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

840L

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Super Short Summary

In Roald Dahl’s Matilda, a brilliant young girl, unloved by her ignorant and selfish family, discovers she has telekinetic powers. She befriends her kind teacher, Miss Honey, and uses her abilities to stand up to the tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, ultimately helping Miss Honey reclaim her rightful home. Themes of child abuse and neglect are present.

Playful

Humorous

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.5

1,016,567 ratings

84%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Roald Dahl’s Matilda is lauded for its charming, clever protagonist and whimsical narrative style, captivating both young and adult readers. Critics praise its humor and underlying message of empowerment. However, some find certain characters' exaggerated cruelty unsettling. Overall, it remains a beloved classic for its imaginative storytelling and moral depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Matilda?

Readers who delight in witty, adventurous, and heartwarming stories featuring clever, resourceful children will treasure Matilda by Roald Dahl. Fans of L. Frank Baum's The Wizard of Oz and Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland will appreciate its blend of fantasy and charm.

4.5

1,016,567 ratings

84%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Matilda Wormwood

A young girl with astonishing intelligence and telekinetic abilities, who has taught herself to read by age three and has read a dozen classic novels by age five. Her kindness, bravery, and extraordinary mind make her central to the story's events.

Matilda’s gentle and supportive first-grade teacher, known for her kindness and her appreciation of Matilda's unique intellect. She has a deep bond with Matilda and values education and learning.

The terrifying and tyrannical headmistress of Crunchem Hall, known for her extreme disciplinary measures and her disdain for children. Her imposing physical presence is matched by her intimidating personality.

Matilda's neglectful and dishonest parents who fail to recognize their daughter’s brilliance and potential. Mr. Wormwood is a shady car dealer, while Mrs. Wormwood is preoccupied with appearances and dismissive of academic pursuits.

Matilda's bright and enthusiastic classmate who quickly becomes her friend. Known for her adventurous spirit, she is eager to engage in mischief at school.

An older student at Crunchem Hall, known for her mischievous pranks and tales of rebellion against Miss Trunchbull. Her bravery impresses and inspires her younger peers.

A student who unexpectedly finds inner strength when he is singled out by Miss Trunchbull. His incident at school becomes a memorable demonstration of resilience.

Book Details
Pages

256

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1980s

Publication Year

1988

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

840L

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