Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Five children win golden tickets to see inside Willy Wonka’s famous chocolate factory.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a comic fantasy novel by Roald Dahl, illustrated by Quentin Blake, first published in 1964. It is number 15 in our list of the best children’s books of all time. Five children win golden tickets to see inside Willy Wonka’s famous chocolate factory.
What is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory about?
Charlie Bucket is a poor boy who lives with his family near a mysterious chocolate factory. When he wins one of five golden tickets, he joins a tour with four other children and the eccentric Willy Wonka.
It was first published in 1964. Later editions were illustrated by Quentin Blake.
Book details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Author | Roald Dahl |
| Illustrator | Quentin Blake |
| First published | 1964 |
| Type | Comic fantasy novel |
| Age guide | 6 to 10 |
Why children enjoy Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
- A world of sweets and inventions that children love.
- Fast, funny chapters with a clear moral.
- A natural book to share before or after the films.
Reading and talking tips
- Ask: what would you invent in a chocolate factory?
- Compare the book with the films, if you have seen them.
- Make your own golden ticket.
About Roald Dahl
Roald Dahl was born on 13 September 1916 in Llandaff, Cardiff, Wales, to Norwegian parents, and died on 23 November 1990. He served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force in the Second World War before becoming a writer.
Read more on our Roald Dahl author page.
If your child likes this, try…
See all 20 in our best children’s books of all time.
Frequently asked questions
What age is Charlie and the Chocolate Factory for?
It suits ages 6 to 10 and is a good read-aloud for younger children.
Who illustrated it?
The first editions had other illustrators, and Quentin Blake illustrated later editions.
Where can I borrow Charlie and the Chocolate Factory?
Most public libraries stock it. See our guide to children’s books and your local library.