Roald Dahl, dessen Geschichten den Lesern stets "Wechselbäder zwischen Gruseln und Schmunzeln verschaffen" (Hessischer Rundfunk), wirft hier aus vollen Händen glitzerndes Konfetti unter sein Leservolk. Heitere Pointen entzücken uns, wenn erzählt wird, wie ein alter Trinker (aber nur bei Regenwetter) zu Geld für seinen Whisky kommt; wie Mr. Botibol ohne Orchester (aber mit gewaltigem Applaus) das 5. Klavierkonzert von Beethoven als Solistin eine Klavierlehrerin an einem Bechstein-Flügel, dem kein Ton entspringt; wie die beiden pfiffigen Gründer der "Mein ist die Rache GmbH" so berühmt werden konnten, daß sie zu Opfern ihrer eigenen Firma zu werden drohen. Und wenn Roald Dahl in respektlosen Versen die wahre Geschichte von Aschenbrödel ausplaudert oder die von Schneewittchen und den sieben Jockeys, von Rotkäppchen und dem Wolf und den drei kleinen Schweinchen, können wir uns auf Unerwartetes gefasst machen.
Roald Dahl was a beloved British author, poet, screenwriter, and wartime fighter pilot, best known for his enchanting and often darkly humorous children's books that have captivated generations of readers around the world. Born in Llandaff, Wales, to Norwegian parents, Dahl led a life marked by adventure, tragedy, creativity, and enduring literary success. His vivid imagination and distinctive storytelling style have made him one of the most celebrated children's authors in modern literature. Before becoming a writer, Dahl lived a life filled with excitement and hardship. He served as a Royal Air Force pilot during World War II, surviving a near-fatal crash in the Libyan desert. His wartime experiences and travels deeply influenced his storytelling, often infusing his works with a sense of danger, resilience, and the triumph of the underdog. After the war, he began writing for both adults and children, showing a rare versatility that spanned genres and age groups. Dahl's children's books are known for their playful use of language, unforgettable characters, and a deep sense of justice, often pitting clever children against cruel or foolish adults. Some of his most iconic titles include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The BFG, James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr Fox, and The Witches. These works are filled with fantastical elements and moral undertones, empowering young readers to challenge authority, think independently, and believe in the impossible. Equally acclaimed for his work for adults, Dahl wrote numerous short stories characterized by their macabre twists and dark humor. His stories were frequently published in magazines such as The New Yorker and later compiled into bestselling collections like Someone Like You and Kiss Kiss. He also wrote screenplays, including the James Bond film You Only Live Twice and the adaptation of Ian Fleming's Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Despite his literary success, Dahl was a complex and sometimes controversial figure, known for his strong opinions and difficult personality. Nonetheless, his books continue to be treasured for their wit, originality, and the sense of wonder they inspire. Many of his stories have been adapted into successful films, stage plays, and television specials, further cementing his legacy. Dahl's impact on children's literature is immeasurable. His ability to connect with young readers through a mix of irreverence, heart, and imagination has made his stories timeless. Even after his death, his books remain in print and continue to be read by millions of children worldwide. His writing not only entertains but also encourages curiosity, courage, and compassion. Roald Dahl's work lives on as a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of a truly original voice. He remains a towering figure in literature whose creations continue to spark joy, mischief, and inspiration across generations.
Eine Sammlung von Kurzgeschichten und Gedichten, leider in meinen Augen weder "ungemütlich" noch "ungezogen", sondern recht zahm und nur hier und da ein wenig schrullig. Am Besten gefiel mir noch die Kurzgeschichte "Mister Botibol", welche aber leider sehr unspektakulär endet.
Lieblingsstellen: "Als er wieder allein war, erschrak er einen Moment darüber, wie leicht er diese Entscheidung getroffen hatte. Wein zum Abendessen! Einfach so! Nun, warum eigentlich nicht? Warum hatte er nicht schon eher daran gedacht? Er war sein eigener Herr. Und irgendwie war es wichtig für ihn, Wein zu haben. Er schien eine gute Wirkung auf ihn zu haben, eine sehr gute Wirkung sogar. Er wollte Wein haben, und er würde ihn haben." (Mister Botibol)
"Eigentlich war er strikt dagegen, in der Öffentlichkeit mit weiblichen Wesen zu sprechen, aber das Mädchen hatte ihn überrumpelt." (Mister Botibol)