Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl was a British author and screenwriter, known for his children's books such as 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory', 'Matilda', and 'James and the Giant Peach'. He also wrote adult fiction and served as a fighter pilot during World War II.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Danny The Champion Of The World
In this heartwarming tale, a young boy named Danny embarks on an extraordinary adventure with his father. Living in a cozy gypsy caravan behind their country petrol station, Danny's life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers his father's secret passion for poaching pheasants. As they devise a clever plan to outsmart the wealthy landowner, Danny becomes the unexpected hero of the village, showcasing the power of determination, love, and the bond between father and son.
The 1043rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. Matilda
The book follows the story of Matilda, an exceptionally intelligent young girl who is neglected and mistreated by her parents. She finds solace and companionship in the local library, where she develops a love of books and a remarkable talent for telekinesis. Matilda eventually uses these abilities to defend her friends from their tyrannical headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, and help her kind-hearted teacher, Miss Honey, reclaim her life.
The 1346th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
3. Charlie And The Chocolate Factory,
A young boy named Charlie lives in poverty and dreams of visiting the nearby chocolate factory owned by the eccentric and mysterious Willy Wonka. When Charlie finds one of the five golden tickets hidden in chocolate bars worldwide, he earns the chance to tour the factory. Accompanied by his Grandpa Joe and four other children, Charlie embarks on a magical and surreal adventure inside the factory, where he learns valuable lessons about greed, arrogance, and honesty.
The 1377th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
4. The BFG
The book tells the story of a young orphan girl who befriends a benevolent giant, known as the Big Friendly Giant (BFG). Together, they embark on a mission to stop the other evil, man-eating giants from terrorizing the human world. With the help of the Queen of England and her armed forces, they manage to capture the evil giants and bring peace. The BFG and the girl then live happily in England, with the BFG delivering good dreams to children and the girl living in a new home at the palace.
The 1397th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
5. The Twits
"The Twits" is a humorous children's book that follows the lives of Mr. and Mrs. Twit, a repulsive and mean-spirited couple who delight in playing nasty tricks on each other. With their hairy faces and twisted minds, they make life miserable for everyone around them. However, their wickedness eventually catches up with them when a group of mischievous monkeys decide to teach them a lesson they will never forget.
The 1405th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
6. James and the Giant Peach
A young boy named James, after being orphaned and forced to live with his cruel aunts, embarks on a magical adventure inside a giant peach. Alongside a group of anthropomorphic insects who also reside in the peach, James navigates through a series of fantastical events, including battling pirate-like creatures and flying across the Atlantic Ocean to New York City. This whimsical journey helps James escape his miserable life and find a new family amongst his insect friends.
The 1444th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
7. The Witches
This children's dark fantasy novel tells the story of a young British boy and his Norwegian grandmother as they battle against England's child-hating witches. After losing his parents, the boy lives with his grandmother who educates him about the evil witches that appear ordinary but have a deep hatred for children. The boy accidentally stumbles upon the witches' convention and gets turned into a mouse, but with his grandmother's help, he manages to foil their plan to turn all the children into mice.
The 1931st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
8. Someone Like You
Tales of the Unexpected
"Someone Like You" is a collection of dark and twisted short stories that explore the depths of human nature. From tales of revenge and deceit to stories of unexpected twists and turns, this book delves into the sinister side of humanity, leaving readers questioning their own morals and beliefs. With Dahl's signature wit and mastery of storytelling, each narrative is a captivating and unsettling journey into the complexities of the human psyche.
The 2104th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
9. Fantastic Mr Fox
In this children's novel, a clever and resourceful fox named Mr. Fox lives with his family underground beside a trio of mean and wealthy farmers named Boggis, Bunce, and Bean. When the farmers have had enough of Mr. Fox stealing their livestock to feed his family, they unite in a vengeful pursuit to capture and kill him. Despite being trapped underground without food, the cunning Mr. Fox devises a plan to outwit the farmers, digging tunnels to their individual farms to steal food. His ingenuity not only ensures the survival and prosperity of his own family but also saves his fellow animal friends, leading to a celebratory feast and the outsmarting of the spiteful farmers.
The 8246th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
10. The Collected Short Stories Of Roald Dahl
This collection brings together a wide array of Roald Dahl's short stories, showcasing his unique blend of dark humor, unexpected twists, and keen observations of human nature. The stories traverse various genres, from macabre tales of revenge and deception to whimsical narratives filled with eccentric characters. Each story is crafted with Dahl's signature wit and often explores themes of greed, cruelty, and the bizarre, leaving readers both entertained and contemplative. Through his vivid storytelling, Dahl captivates audiences with his ability to reveal the darker sides of life while maintaining a sense of intrigue and suspense.
The 9108th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
11. George's Marvellous Medicine
In this whimsical children's book, a young boy named George concocts an extraordinary medicine to cure his cranky grandmother's unpleasant demeanor. Left alone with her while his parents are out, George decides to mix various household items to create a potion with unexpected effects. The resulting medicine leads to a series of fantastical and bizarre consequences, ultimately teaching George the power of creativity and the unpredictability of magic, while also humorously cautioning against the dangers of tampering with things one does not fully understand.
The 9138th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
12. Boy
Tales of Childhood
The book is a captivating autobiographical account of the author's childhood, filled with vivid anecdotes and memorable experiences. It explores his early years in Wales and England, highlighting both the joys and challenges he faced, including mischievous adventures, strict school environments, and encounters with eccentric characters. Through a series of humorous and sometimes poignant tales, the narrative provides insight into the formative moments that shaped his life and inspired his future storytelling.
The 14983rd Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
13. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar
and Six More
The book is a collection of seven short stories. The titular story revolves around a wealthy, idle man who discovers a set of yoga exercises that allow him to "see" through playing cards. After rigorous training, he uses this ability to win at casinos, donating his winnings to orphanages worldwide. The other stories include a tale about a man who can change his appearance at will, a bet about igniting a candle from a distance, a hitchhiker with a special thumb, a boy who discovers a turtle with 117 years, a story of a swan who saves a boy, and a tale about a woman who is obsessed with her two cats. These tales are filled with magical realism and surprising twists, showcasing the author's imaginative storytelling.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
14. Roald Dahl’s Book Of Ghost Stories
This collection features a curated selection of ghost stories that delve into the eerie and supernatural, chosen by the renowned storyteller Roald Dahl. Each tale explores themes of the macabre and the mysterious, presenting a variety of spectral encounters and chilling narratives. The stories are crafted to evoke suspense and intrigue, drawing readers into a world where the line between the living and the dead is hauntingly blurred. Through these tales, readers experience a range of emotions from fear to fascination, as they navigate the unsettling yet captivating realm of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
15. Charlie And The Great Glass Elevator
The Further Adventures of Charlie Bucket and Willy Wonka
In this whimsical sequel, the story follows Charlie Bucket, his family, and Willy Wonka as they embark on an extraordinary adventure in a magical glass elevator. Their journey takes them into orbit, where they encounter the Space Hotel USA and a group of sinister aliens known as the Vermicious Knids. As they navigate these unexpected challenges, Charlie and his companions must use their wits and teamwork to return safely to the chocolate factory. The tale is filled with humor, imaginative scenarios, and the timeless charm of Dahl's storytelling.
The 16831st Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
16. Going Solo
The Remarkable Adventures of a Young Pilot
Set against the backdrop of World War II, this captivating memoir chronicles the author's adventurous journey from England to East Africa and his experiences as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force. The narrative is filled with vivid anecdotes of encounters with exotic wildlife, the challenges of military life, and the camaraderie among fellow servicemen. Through a blend of humor and poignancy, the story captures the essence of a young man's transition from innocence to maturity, offering a unique perspective on the trials and triumphs of wartime life.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon -
17. Tales Of The Unexpected
This collection of short stories delves into the eerie and unpredictable aspects of human nature, weaving tales that are both darkly humorous and unsettlingly macabre. Each story presents a twist, often revealing the sinister undercurrents lurking beneath the surface of everyday life. From tales of revenge and deception to those exploring the bizarre and supernatural, the narratives captivate with their clever plots and unexpected conclusions, leaving readers both entertained and contemplative about the complexities of human behavior.
The 17119th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org -
18. Vile Verses
A Collection of Roald Dahl's Poems
This book is a collection of Roald Dahl's most mischievous and imaginative poems, showcasing his signature wit and dark humor. The verses are filled with playful language, clever rhymes, and a touch of the grotesque, capturing the essence of Dahl's unique storytelling style. The poems explore a variety of themes, from the absurdities of everyday life to fantastical adventures, all delivered with a sense of whimsy and a hint of the macabre. Accompanied by lively illustrations, the collection offers a delightful and entertaining experience for readers of all ages.
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19. Kuschelmuschel
"Kuschelmuschel" is a whimsical and imaginative story that explores the adventures of a young protagonist who discovers a magical seashell with the power to transport them to fantastical worlds. Through a series of enchanting and sometimes perilous journeys, the protagonist encounters a variety of peculiar characters and learns valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the importance of embracing one's imagination. The narrative is filled with Dahl's signature blend of humor and charm, making it a delightful read for audiences of all ages.
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20. The Complete Short Stories
Tales of the Unexpected
This collection offers a captivating journey through a myriad of tales that blend the macabre with the whimsical, showcasing a masterful storyteller's ability to weave narratives that are both unsettling and enchanting. Each story is a testament to the author's unique voice, characterized by unexpected twists, dark humor, and a keen observation of human nature. From tales of sinister revenge to those exploring the peculiarities of everyday life, the anthology captures the essence of human emotions and the complexities of the human psyche, leaving readers both entertained and contemplative.
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21. My Uncle Oswald
Set in the early 20th century, this humorous and risqué novel follows the escapades of a charming and cunning protagonist who discovers the potent aphrodisiac properties of a rare Sudanese beetle. With the help of his alluring accomplice, he devises a scheme to collect the sperm of the world's most brilliant and influential men, intending to sell it to wealthy women seeking exceptional offspring. The narrative unfolds with a series of outrageous and comical adventures, blending wit, mischief, and a touch of scandal as the duo navigates their audacious enterprise.
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22. Lamb To The Slaughter
In this darkly comedic tale, a seemingly devoted housewife, Mary, is shattered when her husband, Patrick, unexpectedly announces his intention to leave her. In a moment of shock and betrayal, Mary impulsively kills him with a frozen leg of lamb. As the story unfolds, she cleverly conceals her crime by cooking the murder weapon and serving it to the unsuspecting detectives investigating her husband's death. The narrative explores themes of betrayal, cunning, and the unexpected depths of human nature, all wrapped in a chilling yet humorous twist.
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23. Man From The South And Other Stories
This collection of short stories delves into the darker and more twisted aspects of human nature, blending suspense, irony, and unexpected twists. Each tale is crafted with a keen eye for detail and a knack for building tension, leading readers through a series of unsettling scenarios that often culminate in shocking revelations. From a high-stakes bet involving a finger to a chilling encounter with a mysterious hitchhiker, these stories explore themes of greed, deception, and the macabre, leaving readers both entertained and contemplative about the complexities of human behavior.
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24. The Magic Finger
In this whimsical tale, a young girl possesses a unique power in her finger that she uses to teach her neighbors, the Gregg family, a lesson about empathy and compassion. When the Greggs' penchant for hunting birds becomes too much for her to bear, she points her magic finger at them, transforming their lives in an unexpected way. The family experiences life from the perspective of the creatures they once hunted, leading to a newfound understanding and appreciation for the natural world. Through humor and imagination, the story delivers a powerful message about kindness and the consequences of one's actions.
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25. The Minpins
In this enchanting tale, a young boy named Little Billy embarks on a daring adventure into the mysterious Forest of Sin, where he discovers the tiny, secretive Minpins living high in the trees. These miniature people, who have long hidden from the fearsome Gruncher, a fire-breathing beast, befriend Billy and enlist his help to defeat their terrifying foe. With courage and cleverness, Billy devises a plan to outsmart the Gruncher, bringing peace to the Minpins and proving that even the smallest among us can achieve great things.
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26. The Giraffe And The Pelly And Me
None
In this whimsical tale, a young boy named Billy befriends an extraordinary trio of animals—a giraffe, a pelican, and a monkey—who run a unique window-cleaning company. Together, they embark on a delightful adventure filled with humor and imagination as they clean the windows of a grand mansion owned by the wealthy Duke of Hampshire. Along the way, they encounter unexpected challenges and forge a heartwarming friendship, ultimately discovering that dreams can come true in the most unexpected ways.
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27. The Enormous Crocodile
In this delightful children's tale, a cunning and greedy crocodile sets out on a mischievous quest to devour unsuspecting children for lunch. Armed with a series of devious plans, he ventures into the jungle, boasting about his "secret plans and clever tricks." However, his sinister intentions are thwarted by a band of jungle animals who band together to outsmart him. Through a series of humorous and imaginative encounters, the crocodile's schemes are foiled, leading to an unexpected and satisfying conclusion that champions teamwork and cleverness over greed and trickery.
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28. Esio Trot
In this charming tale, a shy and retired bachelor named Mr. Hoppy harbors a secret affection for his lively neighbor, Mrs. Silver, who is devoted to her beloved pet tortoise, Alfie. Desperate to win her heart, Mr. Hoppy devises a clever plan involving a magical chant and a series of tortoise swaps to help Alfie grow bigger, as Mrs. Silver wishes. Through a series of humorous and heartwarming events, Mr. Hoppy's ingenious scheme unfolds, leading to unexpected results and a delightful conclusion that brings joy and companionship to both neighbors.
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29. The Best Of Roald Dahl
This collection brings together a selection of the most captivating and imaginative stories from a master storyteller, showcasing his unique ability to blend dark humor with unexpected twists. Each tale delves into the peculiarities of human nature, often revealing the sinister undercurrents lurking beneath the surface of everyday life. From tales of macabre revenge to whimsical adventures, the stories are a testament to the author's unparalleled creativity and his knack for crafting narratives that entertain, surprise, and provoke thought.
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30. The Wonderful Story Of Henry Sugar And Six More
This captivating collection of seven short stories weaves together tales of magic, mystery, and moral lessons, each with its own unique twist. From the extraordinary journey of a man who learns to see without using his eyes, to the adventures of a boy who discovers a secret that could change his life forever, these stories explore themes of greed, kindness, and the unexpected consequences of one's actions. With a blend of whimsy and dark humor, the narratives invite readers into a world where the ordinary meets the extraordinary, leaving them both entertained and contemplative.
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31. The Umbrella Man And Other Stories
This collection of short stories weaves together a tapestry of the unexpected, the eerie, and the darkly humorous, showcasing the author's mastery of the twist ending. Each tale delves into the peculiarities of human nature, often revealing the sinister or absurd lurking beneath the surface of everyday life. From a seemingly innocent encounter with a stranger to the unsettling consequences of greed and deception, these stories captivate with their clever plots and sharp wit, leaving readers both entertained and contemplative.
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32. Collected Stories
This anthology brings together a captivating array of tales that delve into the darker, more twisted corners of human nature. Each story is a masterclass in suspense and irony, often featuring unexpected twists that leave readers both shocked and delighted. The narratives are populated by a diverse cast of characters, from cunning con artists to unsuspecting victims, all navigating situations that challenge their morality and wit. With a blend of macabre humor and sharp wit, these stories explore themes of greed, revenge, and the unpredictable nature of fate, ensuring an engaging and thought-provoking reading experience.
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33. Skin And Other Stories
This collection of short stories delves into the macabre and the unexpected, weaving tales that blend dark humor with unsettling twists. Each narrative explores the complexities of human nature, often revealing the sinister undercurrents that lie beneath the surface of everyday life. From a man who turns his skin into a canvas for a masterpiece to a woman who discovers an unusual talent, these stories captivate with their imaginative plots and sharp, often ironic, conclusions. The collection showcases a masterful use of suspense and surprise, leaving readers both entertained and contemplative.
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34. Revolting Rhymes
This collection of twisted and humorous poems takes classic fairy tales and gives them a mischievous spin, transforming well-known stories into darkly comedic narratives. With a playful tone and clever rhymes, the tales of Cinderella, Snow White, and others are reimagined with unexpected twists and turns, often leading to surprising and delightfully wicked endings. The poems are accompanied by quirky illustrations that enhance the whimsical and irreverent nature of the stories, making them a delightful read for both children and adults who enjoy a good laugh at the expense of traditional fairy tale conventions.
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35. Switch Bitch
This collection of four darkly comedic short stories delves into the complexities of human desires and the unexpected twists of fate. Each tale explores themes of deception, lust, and the often blurred lines between pleasure and morality. With a blend of wit and irony, the narratives reveal the darker sides of human nature, where characters find themselves entangled in situations that challenge their ethics and lead to surprising outcomes. The stories are crafted with a sharp, engaging style that keeps readers intrigued by the unpredictable turns and the clever, sometimes unsettling, resolutions.
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36. Boy And Going Solo
Tales of Childhood
This captivating memoir offers a glimpse into the formative years of a young boy growing up in early 20th-century England, filled with humorous anecdotes of school pranks, family adventures, and the trials of boarding school life. As the narrative progresses, it transitions into the thrilling and often perilous experiences of a young man navigating the world during World War II, from his time in Africa to his daring exploits as a fighter pilot. The story is a rich tapestry of personal growth, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of youth, all told with a blend of wit and poignancy.
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37. The Landlady
A young man named Billy Weaver arrives in Bath on a business trip and seeks lodging for the night. He stumbles upon a quaint bed and breakfast run by a seemingly kind and welcoming landlady. As he settles in, Billy begins to notice peculiar details about the establishment and its owner, including the eerie absence of other guests and the landlady's unsettling interest in taxidermy. As the evening unfolds, Billy realizes that the landlady's hospitality hides a sinister secret, leading to a chilling and unexpected conclusion.
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38. ...Und Noch Ein Küßchen.
This captivating collection of short stories delves into the darker and more twisted aspects of human nature, blending elements of suspense, irony, and unexpected twists. Each tale is crafted with a keen eye for detail and a sharp wit, exploring themes of revenge, deception, and the macabre. The stories often feature ordinary characters placed in extraordinary situations, leading to surprising and sometimes unsettling conclusions. With a masterful command of storytelling, the author invites readers into a world where the line between reality and the bizarre is blurred, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.
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39. Küßchen Küßchen
This collection of short stories delves into the darker, more twisted aspects of human nature, blending elements of suspense, irony, and unexpected twists. Each tale explores the complexities of human behavior, often revealing the sinister undercurrents that lurk beneath seemingly ordinary lives. With a keen eye for detail and a masterful command of narrative tension, the stories captivate readers by leading them through a series of surprising and sometimes macabre revelations, ultimately leaving them to ponder the thin line between normalcy and the bizarre.
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40. Fear
The book is a gripping collection of spine-chilling tales that delve into the darker corners of the human psyche, exploring themes of paranoia, dread, and the supernatural. Each story masterfully weaves a tapestry of suspense and unease, drawing readers into a world where the ordinary becomes sinister and the unexpected lurks around every corner. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for building tension, the author crafts narratives that leave a lingering sense of unease, challenging readers to confront their deepest fears and question the boundaries between reality and imagination.
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41. Het Beste Van Roald Dahl
A lively collected volume presents a selection of the writer’s most beloved and mischievous stories, blending bright imagination, dark humor and moral bite; the pieces range from inventive children’s adventures to sharp, occasionally macabre short tales for adults, all featuring memorable characters, vivid imagery and clever twists that celebrate curiosity, mischief and the power of storytelling.
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42. More Tales Of The Unexpected
A compact collection of darkly comic, often macabre short stories that place ordinary characters in subtly menacing situations and build toward unexpected, ironic payoffs. Each tale uses sharp wit and economical prose to explore themes of greed, revenge, human cruelty, and the uncanny, delivering crisp suspense and twist endings that reframe what came before. The result is a mordant, neatly constructed set of moral fables in which everyday actions lead to extraordinary—and frequently grimly satisfying—consequences.
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43. Ah, Sweet Mystery Of Life: The Country Stories Of Roald Dahl
A collection of darkly comic, vividly observed short stories set in the British countryside, portraying eccentric rural characters, animal encounters, and everyday cruelties that escalate into unexpected, often macabre twists. The tales mix nostalgic detail with sharp satire, exploring themes of class, tradition, desire, and revenge through crisp, economical prose and slyly unsettling finales.