Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl

Parents from Norway, ScandinaviaEmigrated to WalesDahl Born in 1916Attended boarding schoolWorked in Africa for Shell Flew in the Royal Air Force in WWII First started writing in Washington DC for adults First children’s stories were in fact written for his

own kids at age 44

Synopsis

Boy is autobiographical. As title suggests, covers his younger years.

Begins with family and kindergarden years.

Llandaff Cathedral School years from ages 7-9 and summer hols in Norway.

St Peter’s (ages 9-13): homesickness and strict discipline.

Repton (ages 13-20): more about school life. Sporty and enjoyed photography.

Favourite Snippet

Chapter title: Fagging

Junior/senior divide: prefects

Wilberforce and warming toilet seats

Memorable quote:“Have you got the ice off it?” he asked.“Yes, Wilberforce.”“Is it warm?”“We shall soon find out,” he said. “You can get off now.” I

got off the lavatory seat and pulled up my trousers. Wilberforce lowered his own trousers and sat down. “Very good,” he said. “Very good indeed.”

Critique

Chose book as Reader because it gives insight in public-school life.

By writing Boy, Roald Dahl proves himself an adroit writer of non-fiction.

Book’s characters are caricature-like; there is vivid detail.

Range of emotions that one passes through reading the book.

Surprisingly, no film.

Highly recommended.