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The BFG

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1982

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Book Brief

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Roald Dahl

The BFG

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1982
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1980s

Publication Year

1982

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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Super Short Summary

In The BFG, eight-year-old Sophie is taken from her orphanage by a giant who turns out to be the Big Friendly Giant (BFG). Living in Giant Country, Sophie learns that the BFG catches and distributes dreams while avoiding nine man-eating giants. Together, they devise a plan to use the Queen of England's help to capture these dangerous giants and keep the world safe. The book depicts violent scenarios and includes outdated and derogatory language.

Fantastical

Playful

Heartwarming

Exciting

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.4

497,380 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Roald Dahl's The BFG enchants readers with its imaginative storyline and whimsical language. Critics praise its engaging characters and creative world-building, though some note that the plot may be too simplistic for older readers. Overall, it's a delightful read for children, blending humor and heartwarming moments.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The BFG?

The ideal reader for Roald Dahl’s The BFG is a child aged 8-12 who revels in whimsical, fantastical stories and imaginative adventures. This reader likely enjoys books like J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, which also blend magic with heartwarming narratives.

4.4

497,380 ratings

80%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Sophie

An imaginative and brave eight-year-old girl living in an English orphanage, whose encounter with a giant sets her on an adventure that changes her life.

A 24-foot gentle giant from Giant Country, who captures dreams and shares them with sleeping children, and becomes a loyal friend to Sophie.

A group of larger, fearsome giants residing in Giant Country known for their nightly expeditions to consume humans.

The poised and capable monarch of England who becomes involved in Sophie's and the BFG's adventures.

The cruel head of the orphanage where Sophie lives, known for her harsh treatment of the children.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

England • 1980s

Publication Year

1982

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

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