Author Roald Dahl

I absolutely adored this author as a kid, but realized after reading a little Telegraph article that I've really only read two of his books. James and the Giant Peach was my all time favorite with the appalling Aunts and creepy giant bugs; I can't even remember one thing about the movie version made back in the 90s. (I did enjoy the latest Charlie, however, and still watch it on occasional Valentine's Days...)

His writing style has been described as particularly unsentimental, which made it particularly appealing! I remember reading this particular version of James, probably upwards of twenty times. Lovely illustrations by Nancy Ekholm Burkert that inspired fascination as well as horror... although the version below by Quentin Blake would be a delight to read as well.

A fascinating character in his own right, Dahl flew biplane bombers in World War II, invented specialty medical equipment, was married to actress Patricia Neal, and yes, loved chocolate.