In 'Tales of the Unexpected', Roald Dahl weaves a captivating tapestry of intriguing short stories that defy expectations. Each narrative reveals a twist that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, mixing dark humor with the uncanny. From the quirky to the macabre, Dahl explores the complexities of human nature and the surprises that life holds. As ordinary characters navigate extraordinary circumstances, the lines between reality and illusion blur dramatically. Perfect for those who relish the unexpected, this collection invites readers to look beyond the surface and discover what truly lies beneath.
By Roald Dahl
Published: 1990
"The most unexpected things can happen when you least expect them."
Includes the story "Poison," soon to be a short film from Wes Anderson on Netflix In this collection of stories, Dahl tantalizes, amuses, and sometimes terrifies readers about what lurks beneath the ordinary. • “With the inventive power of a Thomas Edison and the imagination of a Lewis Carroll . . . Roald Dahl is a wizard of comedy and the grotesque, an artist with a marvelously topsy-turvy sense of the ridiculous in life.” —Cleveland Plain Dealer Included in this collection are such notorious gems of the bizarre as “The Second Machine,” “Lamb to the Slaughter,” “Neck,” and “The Landlady.” Other stories explore: A wine connoisseur with an infallible palate and a sinister taste in wagers. A decrepit old man with a masterpiece tattooed on his back. A voracious adventuress, a gentle cuckold, and a garden sculpture that becomes an instrument of sadistic vengeance. Social climbers who climb a bit too quickly. Philanderers whose deceptions are a trifle too ornate. Impeccable servants whose bland masks slip for one vertiginous instant.
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“The most unexpected things can happen when you least expect them.”
Tales of the Unexpected
By Roald Dahl
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Roald Dahl (1916-1990) was a British novelist and short story writer, renowned for his imaginative and often whimsical children's literature. His notable works include 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,' 'Matilda,' 'The BFG,' and 'The Witches,' all of which showcase his unique ability to blend dark humor with fantastical elements. Dahl's writing style is characterized by a playful command of language, vivid characterizations, and a knack for crafting clever plots that resonate with both young readers and adults alike. His stories often explore themes of childhood innocence, adventure, and the triumph of the underdog against adversity.
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