The Royal Mail created stamps to celebrate author Roald Dahl, using Quentin Blake’s classic illustrations
A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men. —Roald Dahl
If Roald Dahl had done nothing more in his life than pen Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, his legacy would be secure as one of the most beloved children’s storytellers of all time. But for this adventurer, fighter pilot, inventor, curmudgeon, and all-around eccentric, that was only one facet of his achievements.
The Times of London ranked him among the 50 greatest writers of the modern era. Best-known for his children’s books which were notable for their macabre, unsentimental outlook and villainous grown-ups, he also wrote books for adults and lived a life full of excitement and intrigue. He was a fighter pilot in WWII, married movie star Patricia Neal, and, prompted by his son’s bout with hydrocephalus, developed a life-saving shunt for treating the condition that has been used on thousands of patients.
His books for young people, including Matilda, James and the Giant Peach, The Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Witches, and The BFG are as popular today as when they were published. He also wrote for adults, including the legendary short story, Lamb to the Slaughter. The darker side of Dahl’s wit and personality came out in these works. Unconventional to the end, he left instructions that he was to be buried with his snooker cues and a good bottle of wine.
On the anniversary of his birth, explore the life and art of this storyteller with author Daniel Stashower. Actor Scott Sedar offers a dramatic reading of some of Dahl’s most memorable writings as we raise a toast in celebration and enjoy a special cake.
Other Connections
The BFG is the latest Dahl tale to get the big-screen treatment, joining the musical version of Matilda, and the West End musicalization of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (set for Broadway next season) as adaptations that are bringing his books to life for today’s audiences. Take a look at the trailer for The BFG.
