‘Matilda’ by Roald Dahl (30th anniversary edition) ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Can you believe ‘Matilda’ is 30?!  It seems not that long ago I was a young girl myself reading this classic story when it was released (yes, that makes me feel old).   When I saw that a 30th anniversary edition of this book was being released, along with 3 different collectible covers imagining what Matilda would be doing at now drawn by Quentin Blake, I was first of all shocked it was so long since the book’s release and then excited at the idea of what Matilda might be up to as an adult.  I’d like to think if the author was still alive he might have written an updated story telling us what she’s doing with her life.  But as he sadly can’t do that I was thrilled to get the chance to read this book once more and reminisce with this timeless tale.

Review –

Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin Random House UK Children’s and Puffin for the chance to read this novel.

Matilda has been one of my favourite books since childhood.  I read it multiple times when I was younger, watched the movie multiple times when it was released and it is always the joint favourite with The BFG when I’m asked my favourite childhood story.

It was great to be reading this deliciously funny book again with an adult perspective.  As soon as I began reading the memories came rushing back, from the wonderful illustrations to sitting laughing at Matilda’s acts of revenge against the adults who have wronged her.  There was also some great moments of nostalgia in rereading this book. Who would have thought back then that the line “We’ve got a lovely telly with a twelve-inch screen” would become so funny and dated?  My kids wouldn’t be happy with a television that size in their bedrooms now, let alone in the front room.

The unique prose of Roald Dahl is as brilliantly funny now as it was 30 years ago.  I enjoyed the chance to reread this classic story and although it may have been written for children, it is a great read for all ages.

Out October 4th