Penguin Australia

•  December 2023
• ISBN: 9780241618134
• RRP: $16.99

When I first found out about Wonka I was a little apprehensive, I admit. How could Dahl’s anarchic magic possibly be recreated? And then I saw that Timothée Chalamet  was cast as Wonka, and I relaxed quite a bit. Then I saw the first official trailer, and knew it would be alright. We haven’t seen it yet (on our agenda in the next couple of days before NYE) but I did read the book last week and absolutely loved it.

Sibéal Pounder has taken the screenplay and transformed it for the novel in such a way that Roald would be, I have no doubt, highly admiring. In case, you are one of the few last people without any idea of what this is about, here it is in a nutshell.

This is Willy Wonka’s backstory.

OK, so perhaps you do want more than that. The narrative traces Wonka’s upbringing with a single mum in poor circumstances, sketches over his travels learning the secrets of magical chocolatiering, and then reaches his long-held destination goal: the Galeries Gourmet in his own City of Dreams.

But just because he’s reached his final port, does not mean it will continue to be smooth sailing for Wonka. As soon as he has landed, he finds himself without money, tricked into servitude, and the target of the triumvirate of resident chocolatiers, who not only hold sway of the chocolate trade, but own every official in the city. It’s going to take every bit of magic, ingenuity and friendship that Wonka can muster to break out of his terrible circumstances. We may not have Wonka’s magic but the message of self-belief, and following one’s dream is an important one to share.

And the whole journey is every bit as entertaining and wildly inventive as Mr Fox’ campaign against Boggis, Bunce and Beans or George’s medicine. There is a great deal to love about this, and for Dahl fans everywhere, there will be no disappointment. I can’t wait to see the movie! After all, just look at the special effects as per Amaury Guichon‘s completely astonishing magic Wonka suitcase!

 A movie tie-in is always a great invitation for those reluctant readers and even though this weighs in at over 300 pages, it’s not a difficult read. The hilarity, the fun fonts and general mayhem will have enormous appeal and promote staying power. I recommend it highly for readers from around year 3 upwards.