Most people probably know this from the popular movie which came out quite a few years ago, but this is also a wonderful modern fairy tale about an unappreciated wunderkind kindergartener who has some amazing abilities, but is totally ignored by her family. Her father is a crooked used car salesman, and her mother an absentee princess who completely ignores and frequently leaves her savant daughter to fend for herself. This is technically classified as adolescent literature, but it's certainly a charming if quick read for just about anyone.
I like that it also speaks to the children who read it, in that they are unique and gifted, even if the world doesn't appreciate them. As other reviewers have noted, it conveys several important messages to children: be courageous, and stand up to bullies, even adults; be self-sufficient and take initiative to learn, because a love of learning leads to independence and confidence, even if your parents are less than desirable; and find like-minded allies, as family can consist of those who aren't necessarily related to you, but who share your passions and who support you. Some readers have stated that it's more a statement regarding poor parenting, but I think that's just means to an end to the real messages to children, which are far more hopeful and uplifting.
One of the most powerful messages in the book was the passage: "books gave Matilda a hopeful and comforting message: You are not alone." That speaks volumes, pardon the pun, to many of the children who read this delightful tale. I was an avid reader as a kid, who spent many hours at the local library, preferring to spend time at home reading than engaging with other people, so this would have been a book I was inspired by as well.
I like that it also speaks to the children who read it, in that they are unique and gifted, even if the world doesn't appreciate them. As other reviewers have noted, it conveys several important messages to children: be courageous, and stand up to bullies, even adults; be self-sufficient and take initiative to learn, because a love of learning leads to independence and confidence, even if your parents are less than desirable; and find like-minded allies, as family can consist of those who aren't necessarily related to you, but who share your passions and who support you. Some readers have stated that it's more a statement regarding poor parenting, but I think that's just means to an end to the real messages to children, which are far more hopeful and uplifting.
One of the most powerful messages in the book was the passage: "books gave Matilda a hopeful and comforting message: You are not alone." That speaks volumes, pardon the pun, to many of the children who read this delightful tale. I was an avid reader as a kid, who spent many hours at the local library, preferring to spend time at home reading than engaging with other people, so this would have been a book I was inspired by as well.
