Roald Dahl, author of such wonderful tales as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and James and the Giant Peach, was born on this day in 1916. And this man not only wrote fascinating books, but he had a fascinating, sometimes tragic, life. Here are a few Roald Dahl facts:
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His first name is pronounced, “Roo–all.”
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He didn’t go to college and instead went on an expedition to Newfoundland.
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He worked for Shell Oil in Tanzania.
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While in the Royal Air Force during World War II he was wounded when his plane crash landed, injuring his skull, spine, and hip.
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He married successful actress, Patricia Neal.
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His seven-year-old daughter, Olivia, tragically died of the measles in 1962.
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Roald Dahl is the author of 19 stories as well as several short story compilations, movie scripts, and television scripts.
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Dahl’s stories have come under fire for the harsh way children deal with villainous adults.
Check out these packets of activities on two of Roald Dahl’s classic books.
Click here for this epacket of activities on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Click here for this epacket of activities on Matilda.