Additional Information:
- Illustrated by Quentin Blake
- Hardcover, 240 pages
Synopsis: Matilda is
a lighthearted read about a young girl who is far more special than people
think. Matilda’s parents consider her a
trouble-making burden, and her school principal seeks out every possible chance
to reprimand her. But Matilda’s teacher,
Miss Honey, knows that she is different from the other children. Even though she is only five years old,
Matilda can solve any multiplication problem in her head and has read every
book in sight, including those written by Charles Dickens and Ernest
Hemingway. Not only that, but Matilda
can move objects telepathically. Matilda
and Miss Honey form a strong friendship, bonding over their lack of familial
support. When Matilda learns that the
school principal is Miss Honey’s wicked aunt, Miss Trunchbull, she uses her
special powers to seek revenge upon Miss Trunchbull. Dahl creates a heartwarming story about
friendship, justice, and the meaning of family.
Book Notes: Matilda is a great book for demonstrating Roald Dahl's writing style. It is whimsical and clever, which portrays Dahl's usual voice. It makes for an entertaining read aloud, or the children can read it on their own. It is appropriate for a variety of readers from third grade to fifth grade. The illustrations are common to Dahl's books, illustrated by Quentin Blake. It is a great book to read during an author study of Dahl and can be compared to his other children's books, such as James and the Giant Peach or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Critique: Matilda is a clever and short read appropriate for a variety of students. At one point it was a point of controversy because many think that Dahl portrays adults in a negative light. Some critics accuse Dahl of promoting children disobeying their parents and other adults. This is an interesting aspect of Dahl's books and can be addressed in the classroom when discussing banned books and controversy.
Classroom Activities: Matilda can be used in the classroom in a variety of ways. In my author study, I address British-English vocabulary used in the books, Dahl's writing style, characterization, etc. Below are links to lesson ideas and teacher resources.
http://www.penguin.com/static/images/yr/pdf/Matilda_LessonPlans_lo.pdf
https://roalddahl.com/create-and-learn/teach/teach-the-stories/matilda-lessons
http://www.teachingideas.co.uk/library/books/matilda.htm
Craft Ideas:
http://projectkid.com/project-kid-crafts-with-the-stars-of-matilda-the-musical/
Helpful Links:
Book trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zot8bp2UjdE
Critique: Matilda is a clever and short read appropriate for a variety of students. At one point it was a point of controversy because many think that Dahl portrays adults in a negative light. Some critics accuse Dahl of promoting children disobeying their parents and other adults. This is an interesting aspect of Dahl's books and can be addressed in the classroom when discussing banned books and controversy.
Classroom Activities: Matilda can be used in the classroom in a variety of ways. In my author study, I address British-English vocabulary used in the books, Dahl's writing style, characterization, etc. Below are links to lesson ideas and teacher resources.
http://www.penguin.com/static/images/yr/pdf/Matilda_LessonPlans_lo.pdf
https://roalddahl.com/create-and-learn/teach/teach-the-stories/matilda-lessons
http://www.teachingideas.co.uk/library/books/matilda.htm
Craft Ideas:
http://projectkid.com/project-kid-crafts-with-the-stars-of-matilda-the-musical/
Helpful Links:
Book trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zot8bp2UjdE
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