Roald Dahl is considered to be one of the best children’s writers. In honor of his work, Friday, September 13, is a day named after him for his honor. Many schools dress up as his characters or nurses read to ill children in character. His work is celebrated because he’s inspired generations to read, gotten adults to begin reading with their children, or even just revisited books as adults for their own sake. With that in mind, let’s give you some ideas on how to celebrate the day in style, along with some books that would be great for the occasion.
Now, we all know about the book Matilda. It’s the story of a sweet little girl with a family that’s not the best. As kids, was there anyone who didn’t want to be a bookworm like her? I used to check out the maximum limit at the library because I wanted to be smart and kind, just like her. There’s even a reading challenge that you can do to read the books she read in the book.
Watch Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory
I have nothing against the modern adaptations (which are great, too), but why not start the day off with the original? Relish the factory tour and learn about the wonders of Wonka. There are good lessons in this movie, and though it has come under scrutiny over the years (everyone thinks it was very convenient that Grandpa Joe could walk through a factory after being bedridden for years), it’s still a great movie to watch as a family.
Like others, Roald Dahl has a charity to help people in need, specifically children. The staff is meant to support children who are sick with lifelong conditions. They have dedicated specialists to ensure they have the best care. They also offer love and support during these times. Because the charity is in the UK, you won’t be able to participate in the events they hold, but you can donate to help keep the charity going.
Dressing up is fun whether you’re a kid or an adult! The charity for Roald Dahl has excellent ideas for how to dress up as your favorite characters. As a lover of Matilda the most, I would love to dress in a blue gown and carry an armload of books or a wheelbarrow, depending on if you want to do the movie option. Fans of his other books should try making a Golden Ticket costume out of cardboard or dress as Miss Spider or any of his other characters. You’ll have hundreds to choose from!
So, how many of us as kids wanted to make an Everlasting Gobstopper or some of the other things that we’ve read in his books? Well, now you can! Spoiler alert: the Gobstopper is not everlasting, but it is tasty! Or, try the Mudburgers from James and the Giant Peach! Bruce Bogtrotter’s mouthwatering chocolate cake is another good option! Another favorite to try is the Frobscottle recipe from the BFG! It tastes so refreshing! As a bonus, go to your local craft store or dollar store, and you can find a bottle you can drink out of, just like the character in the story!
Use His Books To Inspire Art Projects
Another fun idea is to use his books to create art. Roald Dahl was known for creating fascinating worlds and innovative ideas. As a result, there are many lessons that we can learn and things to create! Try making a crocodile; you can also make George’s Medicine, a volcano, or draw Willy Wonka! If drawing isn’t something fun, that’s alright! You can try any of these fun art projects!
Check Out Your Local Library Or Bookstore
You have so many options of books to choose from with this author. The BFG, The Enormous Crocodile, Fantastic Mr. Fox, and more. All are fun and innovative. The best part about this is that you don’t need money to celebrate this day unless you want to. For a free idea, you can go to your local library and find all of his books, or if you feel like going on a shopping adventure, try going to Powell’s. It has everything, and most of the books are under $5!
Remembering Childhood Can Be Fun
When we were kids, we all wanted to escape inside of one of Roald Dahl’s books. You can do the same with your kids as you celebrate the day. You can make lava lamps, try his character’s favorite recipes, and go on an adventure for all the books! Have fun in Wonka Land or being stuck inside a peach!
Jenifer Dale is a writer that has a passion for reading and helping others. When she is not writing, she loves cooking, crocheting, and spending time with her family.