Roald Dahl was a British poet, novelist, short story writer, screenwriter, and fighter pilot. He is widely known for novels including Matilda, James and the Giant Peach, and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory among many others.
Dahl did not start writing until the 1940s. In fact, he initially served as a fighter pilot during World War II, but after suffering a serious head injury, he was then transferred to Washington D.C to be an assistant air attaché. There, he found his love for writing and eventually published his first book Shot Down Over Libya.
His works inspired children and adults alike, and later became one of the world’s best-selling authors. He has also been referred to as “one of the greatest storytellers for children of the 20th century.” His unique style of writing even earned him three Edgar Allan Poe Awards.
Although some didn’t agree with his use of darkly comic scenarios in his children’s books, people can’t deny the fact that he wrote numerous masterpieces and created some of the world’s most well-loved book characters.
Here are the top 31 Roald Dahl quotes that explores his thoughts and views regarding life, kindness, and more.
Table of Contents
Imagination & Creativity
Dahl believed that imagination was the key to magic and happiness—both for children and adults.
Quote:
“Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”
— Roald Dahl, “The Minpins” (1991)
This quote reminds us that seeing possibilities is a mindset. Dahl’s books challenge us to hold onto wonder, no matter our age.
Quote:
“A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.”
— Roald Dahl, “Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator” (1972)
Here, Dahl celebrates playfulness and imagination—a powerful antidote to life’s seriousness.
Quote:
“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places.”
— Roald Dahl, “The Minpins” (1991)
Imagination opens doors to new adventures and discoveries, no matter how ordinary things may seem.
Kindness & Empathy
For Dahl, kindness was a quiet superpower—something he wove into both heroes and villains.
Quote:
“If you have good thoughts they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.”
— Roald Dahl, “The Twits” (1980)
This quote celebrates the transformative power of kindness—inside and out.
Quote:
“Somewhere inside all of us is the power to change the world.”
— Roald Dahl, “Matilda” (1988)
Dahl reminds us that small acts of kindness can create big changes, especially when we believe in ourselves and others.
Courage & Resilience
Dahl’s characters—often small or underestimated—show immense courage in the face of adversity.
Quote:
“You’ll never get anywhere if you go about what-iffing like that.”
— Roald Dahl, “Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator” (1972)
A rallying cry to face fears head-on, this quote encourages taking action rather than being paralyzed by doubt.
Quote:
“Some people, when they have taken too many blows, do not have the strength left to fight back. But some do. Matilda was one of the ones who did.”
— Roald Dahl, “Matilda” (1988)
Through Matilda, Dahl shows us the resilience that lives within everyone—especially the underestimated.
Wisdom & Life Lessons
Dahl often snuck profound life lessons into even his silliest stories.
Quote:
“It’s impossible to make your eyes twinkle if you aren’t feeling twinkly yourself.”
— Roald Dahl, “Danny, the Champion of the World” (1975)
Genuine happiness comes from within—Dahl encourages authenticity.
Quote:
“So please, oh please, we beg, we pray, go throw your TV set away, and in its place you can install, a lovely bookshelf on the wall.”
— Roald Dahl, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” (1964)
Here, he’s advocating for curiosity, learning, and the joys of reading.
Childhood & Wonder
Dahl had a special reverence for the magic of childhood.
Quote:
“Never grow up…always down.”
— Roald Dahl, “Roald Dahl’s Guide to Railway Safety” (1991)
Dahl invites us to retain childlike wonder, even as adults.
Quote:
“The greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places.”
— Roald Dahl, “The Minpins” (1991)
He reminds us that wonder can be found everywhere, if we look.
Conclusion
Roald Dahl’s quotes continue to ignite imaginations, encourage kindness, and inspire courage—reminding us that a little bit of magic is within reach for everyone. Whether you’re reading for motivation, nostalgia, or just a smile, Dahl’s words still resonate across generations.
