The Rare Children’s Books by Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl Rare Books
Roald Dahl has touched the lives of many children with his imaginative, somewhat dark and funny stories. The British novelist is a household name and a brilliant storyteller, writing some of the most famous children’s books throughout the world.

Dahl was born in 1916 in Llandaff, Cardiff, Wales. He experienced great tragedy as a small child – his sister and father died within weeks of each other when Dahl was only three years old. Dahl spent most of his childhood at boarding schools in England and spent the holidays with his mother in Wales. Dahl writes about his mostly happy childhood in his memoir Boy: Tales of Childhood.

Dahl took a job with Shell Petroleum Company after his schooling and traveled the world. During World War II, Dahl served as Lieutenant in a special force for the Colonial Army. After being injured in battle, Dahl was sent home and eventually stationed at the British Embassy in Washington DC.

His first publish book was The Gremlins, which was published in 1943. This book was received with great praise and even Eleanor Roosevelt read it to her children. Dahl went on to write some of the most famous children’s books of all time, many of which became popular movies.

Roald Dahl Charlie and the Chocolate Factory First Edition

First Edition of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, Inscribed by the Author

We carry a first edition, second issue of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which was inscribed by the author and his wife. It is an exceptional and rare copy of this beloved novel. In fact, our most famous sale we’ve made was another first edition of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, inscribed by Roald Dahl in the year of publication. The book was in an excellent dust jacket that showed some light wear to the foot of the spine. The publication date was September 1964 and the first printing run consisted of 10,000 copies and sold out within four weeks. This copy was signed within a month of publication.

We also have a first edition of James of the Giant Peach, which was inscribed by Roald Dahl in the year of publication. It is in fine condition in the original dust jacket, only showing some wear to the foot of the spine and a few small, closed tears. It is a rare and wonderful copy to add to your collection. Click here to learn more.

Dahl wrote many other famous books, including Matilda, The BFG, Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Witches, and more. He passed away in 1990 at the age of 74. Since his death there have been many museums and ceremonies to honor both his books and his life.