Matilda Wormwood is the protagonist of Roald Dahl's 1988 novel Matilda. She is a genius child born to neglectful, dishonest parents who discovers she has telekinetic powers. She uses her intelligence and her powers to fight back against the tyrannical headmistress Miss Trunchbull and eventually finds a true family with her beloved teacher Miss Honey.

What Is Matilda's Story?

Matilda teaches herself to read at age three and devours the library's collection. Her parents dismiss her intelligence. At school, she finds an ally in Miss Honey and an enemy in Trunchbull. She uses her telekinesis to terrorize Trunchbull and ultimately drive her away, then is adopted by Miss Honey.

Why Is Matilda Important?

Matilda is one of children's literature's great empowerment stories. She demonstrates that intelligence, kindness, and courage can overcome even the most abusive circumstances. Dahl wrote her as a child who saves herself.

What Does Matilda Represent?

Matilda represents the power of reading, thinking, and refusing to accept cruelty as normal. She is every smart child who was told to be quiet and chose not to be.

Can You Talk to Matilda?

You can chat with Matilda on HoloDream, where she is available as an AI companion. She is brilliant, kind, and has read more books than you have.