James and the Giant Peach

by Roald Dahl

James lived a happy life until he was about 5.  Then his parents were killed by a stampeding rhinoceros and he had to live with his Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker, who hate him.  They lived together for another 5 years until James was given something to make his "dreams come true."  Not understanding how to use it, he accidentally spends the magic wish making a Giant Peach on the Aunt's tree.  It doesn't take him long to recognize the peach as an escape, or to recognize that he isn't alone in the peach-the bugs are bigger too, just like the peach.  For the first time in his life, James has friends.  Together they cross the ocean, conquer all manner of challenges, and form life-long friendships.

Audience
I read it in 4th grade and that was a bit young.  I'd give it to 5th up to middle school.  I read it with some of my students and I love it even more as an adult

What I Love
It's funny and insightful.  The characters are easily lovable and all the problems are pretty funny.

Cautions
The grown-ups are the bad guys, as with everything Roald Dahl writes.  The problems are very fantasy oriented and suspension of disbelief will be hard if you're not prepared to swallow everything.

Matilda

by Roald Dahl

Matilda is an extraordinary girl in a less than ordinary family.  They don't understand Matilda, so she learns to shut up while they ignore her.  Matilda turns to books for solace and finds support there.  This works for everyone until Matilda starts school.  In Miss Honey's class all children learn and grow and blossom.  Unfortunately the school headmistress is Miss Trunchbull, who delights in torturing children.  Matilda finds the courage and strength to master her growing powers and stand against injustice.

Audience
This story is on the dark side.  Newly fluent readers-4th grade or so, will be able to read this one.

What I Love
1) Roald Dahl has a sarcastic sense of humor that leaves me chuckling.
2) This book is all about the power of the oppressed-what you can do when you stand up for yourself.
3) The ending makes me happy.

Cautions
1) This is a dark story, it could creep some kids out.
2) The adults are the bad guys.
3) There is some British speak.