“Prayers were held in Assembly Hall. We all perched in rows on wooden benches while teachers sat up on the platform in armchairs, facing us.”

British author, poet, screenwriter, and wartime fighter ace

Roald Dahl was a British author, poet, screenwriter, and wartime fighter ace, known for popular children's literature and short stories. His books sold more than 300 million copies worldwide, and he was widely regarded as a major storyteller for children in the 20th century. He wrote inventive, often mischievous stories that have remained widely read by both children and adults. His work spans children's books, short fiction, poetry, and screenplays, and his reputation rests on a distinctive voice that blends humor, dark surprises, and a sharp sense of story.