APA Citation: Dahl, R. (2009). Revolting rhymes. (Q. Blake, Illus.) New York, NY: Puffin.
Plot summary: In Revolting Rhymes, Dahl puts a new spin on the classic fairy tales with which we have all grown up. Jack and the Beanstalk, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, and more – Dahl tells the true stories that we were never privy to hearing.
Relation to other works: Revolting Rhymes shows off Dahl’s classic style: a little bit twisted, a little bit sinister, a whole lot funny. I would recommend that fans of this collection of poems try some of the other titles in Dahl’s repertoire. For readers looking for a more recent release, Lemony Snicket’s Series of Unfortunate Events series shares a similarly dark humour.
Appeal: I don’t think that this is exclusive to children, but certainly younger readers will get a kick out of the directions in which Dahl takes these classic fairy tales and folktales. Dahl clearly has a lot of fun playing with these well-known stories, and this good humour and wit is infectious. Quentin Blake’s bloodless illustrations are no less gruesome, and are the perfect accompaniment to the rhymes.
Audience or readership: Ages 6-8.
Limitations or weaknesses: This collection of poetry is one of Dahl’s more graphic works, and the amount and level of violence might not be appropriate for all children. Some of the language is questionable (In Cinderella, for example, the Prince cries: “Who’s this dirty slut?/Off with her nut! Off with her nut!”) These particular lines may need to be skipped or altered at the parent’s discretion.
Overall assessment: While I thoroughly enjoyed reading Revolting Rhymes, I’m not entirely sure that is appropriate for all young readers. Dahl definitely pushes the boundaries when it comes to violence and language here, and some of his other works might be more suitable (while still retaining that signature flair for mischief). With that said, it is an easy and entertaining read, and children will love reciting some of these hilarious lines. Grade: A-
KIDS LIT FTW! 