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.

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.

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

- Matilda was Roald Dahl's last longform children's book, published in 1988, just two years before his death in 1990.
- The book has been adapted into a successful film in 1996, a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical in 2013, and a 2022 Netflix adaptation titled Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical.
- Matilda’s character was initially conceptualized as a wicked little girl, but Dahl changed her into a gifted and kind-hearted protagonist revising the story through the writing process.

**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.

**Miss Honey**  
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.

**Miss Trunchbull**  
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.

**The Wormwoods**  
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.

**Lavender**  
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.

**Hortensia**  
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.

**Bruce**  
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.

Roald Dahl

Middle grade

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Before You Read Matilda | SuperSummary

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Overview

Dahl’s tale about a girl with magic powers tells a deeper story about found family and resisting evil. Learn more with this summary of Matilda.

Matilda Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-6

Get ready to explore Matilda and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Matilda

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