All Creatures Great and Small
Roald Dahl remembered every tiny detail in Lake Tanganyika, the second largest freshwater lake in the world. In fact, the African Great Lakes would influence his works. Readers thought of a captivating travel piece, though.
The African Great Lakes comprise, in order of size from largest to smallest, Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, Lake Nyassa, Lake Turkana, Lake Albert, Lake Rukwa, Lake Mweru, Lake Kivu, and Lake Edward. Countries in that region include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, and Tanzania. It was swarming with animals, and Dahl couldn't bring them back to England. He wrote about them instead.
"Muggle-Wump and his family longed to escape from the cage in Mr. Twit's garden and go back to the African jungle where they came from."
The above passage would suggest animal abuse, which was what "The Twits" (1980) was all about. The book originated from Dahl's hatred towards beards. Fans should know, as they haven't seen a single portrait of the author with facial hair. Mr. Twit, sixty years of age, had overgrown beard, where bits of food (from past meals) could be found. He was also a vile character. He looked forward to Wednesday's Bird Pie supper, where he would paint glue on the branches of the Big Dead Tree. Blackbirds, crows, and sparrows ended up in the pot (after landing in the branches). If not for the Roly-Poly Bird, a colorful bird endemic to Africa. He would fly to England every summer. The monkeys, whom Mr. Twit taught ridiculous tricks, asked for the bird's help.
The novella wasn't about the triumph of the animals. In fact, the year of publication would indicate that animal rights was a no issue. (Ingrid Newkirk, the founder of the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, began her campaign during this time, though.) Cruelty towards animals has been happening for centuries, and Dahl would know. Readers will be satisfied about the outcome of this story, which isn't difficult to guess. Lots of strange things happen in Dahl's tales, and there can be nothing more puzzling than witnessing animals banding together to get rid of a detestable man. But there's more.
Grow up, puff up, shoot up!
Dustin Hoffman and Judi Dench starred in the BBC adaptation of "Esio Trot" last Christmas. Published in 1990, this is probably Dahl's most heartwarming book. Some would point out that it's his only feel-good story, as the Welshman would prefer disgusting, greedy, and violent characters.
Mr. Hoppy was a shy old man, in love with his neighbor, Mrs. Silver. He tried to find the right moment to tell her about his feelings, but it would lead to chitchat. Alfie was his only hope, a tortoise who became Mrs. Silver's companion. It wouldn't be hard to imagine a charming, romantic picture, but read again. Dahl described the tortoise's behavior, revealing a clever animal. Appearance can be deceiving, which can also be said of Mr. Hoppy and Mrs. Silver.
Animals do know their way to a man's heart, so you better keep an eye on them.
