Roald Dahl
- Born:
- 13 September 1916, Llandaff, Cardiff, Wales
- Died:
- 23 November 1990, Oxford, Oxfordshire, England
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Writer, Novelist, Short Story Writer, Poet, Screenwriter, Fighter Pilot
Early Life and Education
- Roald Dahl was born to Norwegian parents, Harald Dahl and Sofie Magdalene Hesselberg.
- He attended Llandaff Cathedral School before transferring to St Peter's Weston-super-Mare, a boarding school.
- Later attended Repton School, where his experiences were formative.
- Upon graduating, he joined Shell Oil Company instead of pursuing higher education.
Career and Major Achievements
- Served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II, seeing action in Greece and the Middle East.
- Began his writing career after the war, initially focusing on adult short stories.
- Achieved international fame with his children's books, known for their dark humor and unconventional themes.
- Created numerous iconic characters and stories that continue to resonate with readers of all ages.
- His work has been adapted into numerous films, stage plays, and television shows.
Notable Works
- Novels: James and the Giant Peach (1961), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (1964), Danny, the Champion of the World (1975), The BFG (1982), Matilda (1988).
- Short Story Collections: Kiss Kiss (1960), Someone Like You (1953).
- Screenplays: You Only Live Twice (1967), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968).
- Autobiographical Works: Boy Tales of Childhood (1984) is considered the 'roald dahl autobiography' aimed at a younger audience, chronicling his early years. Going Solo (1986) describes his wartime experiences.
Legacy and Impact
Roald Dahl is considered one of the most influential and beloved children's authors of the 20th century. His stories have been translated into numerous languages and continue to captivate readers around the world. He is celebrated for his imaginative storytelling, memorable characters, and unique blend of humor and darkness. His legacy continues through adaptations of his works and the enduring popularity of his books.