Matilda

by Roald Dahl and Quentin Blake, Roald Dahl
Matilda cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Children's Fiction
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Format • £7.59
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Paperback • £7.99–£15.50 Hardback • £14.99 CD-Audio • £12.99
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Technical
  • ID: 1618
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780141929453
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2003-03-06
  • Formats: 22
  • Reviews: 4

Matilda is a captivating tale of a young girl with a remarkable mind and a love for books. Despite being overlooked and mistreated by her neglectful parents and the tyrannical Miss Trunchbull, Matilda finds solace and strength in stories. This updated edition, designed for a new generation of readers, carries a timeless message of hope and resilience, showing that even the smallest individuals can make a big difference. The story highlights the power of knowledge, courage, and kindness, making it a beloved classic for children and adults alike.

Reviews
George L Thomas · 2023-09-22
whimsical 4.50

The illustrations by Blake perfectly complement Dahl's whimsical writing, making every page visually engaging. Matilda is a delightful read that captures the essence of childhood imagination and resilience.

This reviewer highlights the seamless blend of Quentin Blake's illustrations with Roald Dahl's whimsical prose, creating a visually and narratively engaging experience. They emphasize how Matilda's character embodies the power of imagination and resilience, making it a delightful read for both children and adults. The story's charm lies in its ability to captivate readers with its whimsical yet profound exploration of childhood.

Quick quotes

    Blake's illustrations are instantly recognizable, and his drawing style perfectly complements Dahl's whimsical writing.

    Every page is a delight to look at, and the story is just as enchanting.

    Matilda is a testament to the power of imagination and the resilience of the human spirit.

What's Good To Read · 2023-01-01
heart-warming 4.75

Matilda is a hilarious and heart-warming book that celebrates the power of books, learning, creativity, and the triumph of good over evil. It showcases how children can stand up for themselves and others.

This reviewer praises Matilda for its hilarious and heart-warming narrative, which celebrates the power of books, learning, and creativity. They appreciate how the story emphasizes the triumph of good over evil and how it empowers children to stand up for themselves and others. The reviewer finds the characters and their journeys deeply inspiring and enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    Matilda is a hilarious and heart-warming book that celebrates the power of books, learning, creativity and good over evil.

    It also shows how children can stand up for themselves and others.

    The story is a celebration of the power of books and the importance of education.

The Bookshelf Corner · 2018-11-26
engaging 3.75

Matilda is a good book with a surreal and unnerving tone, making it a pretty good middle-grade read. The character of Matilda is particularly lovely and engaging.

This reviewer describes Matilda as a good book with a surreal and unnerving tone, which adds to its appeal as a middle-grade read. They particularly appreciate the character of Matilda, finding her lovely and engaging. The story's unique blend of whimsy and darkness makes it a memorable and enjoyable read for young audiences.

Quick quotes

    This is a good book. Unnerving and surreal but a pretty good middle grade read.

    Matilda is such a lovely character to read about.

    The story's unique blend of whimsy and darkness makes it a memorable and enjoyable read.

Storyroom · 2016-04-20
great 4.00

This book is highly recommended for children aged 7 to 12, offering a funny and engaging story. The reviewer praises the book's ability to entertain and captivate young readers.

The reviewer from Storyroom strongly recommends Matilda to children aged 7 to 12, highlighting its humorous and engaging story. They believe the book will captivate young readers with its entertaining narrative and memorable characters. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to balance humor and heartwarming moments, making it a delightful read for children. The story's themes of bravery and the power of books are particularly highlighted, making it a valuable addition to any child's library.

Quick quotes

    I strongly recommend this book to all children from ages 7 to 12 I believe they will enjoy the funny story.

    The story's themes of bravery and the power of books are particularly highlighted.

    Matilda is a delightful read for children, balancing humor and heartwarming moments.

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