The Huffington Post published a piece wishing him a happy birthday with a list of eleven things that we can learn from his novels. Here are some highlights, all courtesy of the Huffington Post.
It's okay to be different
Many of Roald Dahl's protagonists are very different from the people around them. But characters like Matilda, Willy Wonka and James from James and the Giant Peach show us that our differences are what make us human – and quite extraordinary! Be true to yourself. Do what you love, love what you do, and you will find true happiness and success!
Reading is fundamentally important, and it can change your life
Reading is fundamentally important, and it can change your life
Matilda loves books because they transported her to all sorts of exciting new places and introduced her to all sorts of weird and wonderful people. Books are incredibly powerful, and they will change your life. To quote Dr. Seuss, "Oh, the place you'll go!"
It's important to be independent
It's important to be independent
While our families are probably all a lot nicer than Matilda's, it is important to know that there will be times when people will not be there to support us. Sometimes, people will let you down. While this can be heartbreaking, it teaches us that we need have the ability to be okay with doing things (and having fun!) alone.
Appearances can be deceiving
Appearances can be deceiving
The BFG is a big and friendly giant, while the witches are "demons in human form." These novels warn us against judging a book by its cover, teaching us to look at other's characters rather than their appearances.
You can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it
You can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it
Look at the marvellous things that Roald Dahl's characters achieve in his novels! Roald Dahl would have wanted us to know that with determination, anything is possible. Just like my favourite actress Audrey Hepburn said, "Nothing is impossible, the word itself says I'm possible!"
Sometimes, dreams do come true
Sometimes, dreams do come true
Charlie never thought in a million years he would have a chance to win a golden ticket and Matilda never thought she would get away from her horrid family. Luckily – spoiler alert – their dreams come true! Don't stop believing!
What's your favourite Roald Dahl book?
