“I have a passion for teaching kids to become readers, they become comfortable with a book, not daunted. Books shouldn’t be daunting, they should be exciting and wonderful; and learning to be a reader gives a terrific advantage” – Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl is a well-known British author of children’s books. He believed in stories that captivated young readers, getting them to love books for a lifetime. He is best known for his books such as “Matilda”, “Fantastic Mr Fox”, “The Witches”, “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory”, “The BFG” and the one we are currently reading in the Year 4 class at Astor International School, “James and The Giant Peach”. His stories allow children to explore their imagination freely.
Roald Dahl’s imagination and creativity to narrate a story is what makes his books so special. Students of all ages enjoy Roald Dahl books. The Year 4 Astor students are always excited to find out what happens next.
Roald Dahl’s books contain an incredible range of words. It allows students to enhance their vocabulary. The variety of books are filled with tales of adventure, mystery, bravery, magic and fun. Importantly, they include some important life lessons that children can learn from.
James and The Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
This story is about a sad and lonely boy, James, who lives with his mean and bitter aunts after his parents passed away. He does not have any friends to talk to and play with until a magical giant peach grows in their garden. Suddenly, James finds an amazing group of friends in the most unexpected way. His newfound friendships transform him into a confident, happy and adept young man. This story teaches important and meaningful lessons like:
1. Friendship
It teaches us the importance of friendship and that it is never too late to make friends.
2. Accepting Differences
James makes friends with all sorts of different giant bugs, who end up becoming like a family to him. It teaches us that we can be friends with people from all walks of life who are different from us. At the same time, we learn that being unique is incredible.
3. Independence and Responsibility
In the story, James learns responsibility and independence as he must take care of things on his own. He needs to be responsible for finding his own happiness and enjoyment.
4. To not judge a book by its cover
James learns that the terrifying bugs he was so afraid of at the beginning of the story actually turns out to be kind and he befriends all of them. It highlights the importance of making judgements based on character, rather than judging by looks.
Roald Dahl books commonly teach us meaningful lessons similar to these. Above all, they bring excitement, creativity and joy to children which allows them to fall in love with reading, which is something we are always encouraging at Astor International School.
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