Boy: Tales of Childhood by Roald Dahl is a charming and engaging memoir that showcases Dahl's storytelling brilliance. Readers appreciate the vivid, humorous recollections of his early life. However, some critique the occasional harshness in his descriptions. Overall, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the experiences that shaped a beloved author.

Readers who enjoyed James and the Giant Peach and Charlotte's Web will relish Boy: Tales of Childhood by Roald Dahl. Fans of whimsical, autobiographical tales filled with humor and insightful glimpses into a celebrated author's life will find this memoir captivating and delightful. Ideal for middle graders and nostalgic adults alike.

Boy: Tales of Childhood by Roald Dahl recounts Dahl’s formative years in Wales and England, painting a vivid picture of his family’s trials and joyous moments, mischievous adventures, and the harshness of British boarding schools, ending with his decision to find adventure outside England and join the Royal Air Force. The book includes frequent episodes of violence and child abuse.

Nostalgic / Humorous / Playful / Informative / Bittersweet

Roald Dahl

Middle grade

Autobiography / Memoir

Roald Dahl's Autobiography

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Boy: Tales of Childhood and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Boy: Tales of Childhood Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Starting Point”

Part 1 Boy: Tales of Childhood Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Llandaff Cathedral School, 1923-5 (age 7-9)”

Part 2 Boy: Tales of Childhood Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “St. Peter’s, 1925-9 (age 9-13)”

Part 3 Boy: Tales of Childhood Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Repton and Shell, 1929-36 (age 13-20)”

Part 4 Boy: Tales of Childhood Part 4 Summary & Analysis

keyFigure

Key Figures

Boy: Tales of Childhood Key Figures

theme

Themes

Boy: Tales of Childhood Themes

Index of Terms

Boy: Tales of Childhood Index of Terms

quote

citation

character

Important Quotes

Boy: Tales of Childhood Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

Boy: Tales of Childhood Essay Topics

Boy: Tales of Childhood

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Boy: Tales of Childhood?

Reading Age

Book Details