The last book I read was actually Bridal Bargains, but that’s boring so I’ll go with the one I finished prior to that.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

That’s right, the famous book by Roald Dahl. Believe it or not, I had never read the book before. I’ve seen both of the movies (and was, respectfully, scared of both of them), but never decided to try the original material.

I’m glad I did. It was an assignment for class, but I got a lot out of it. The book is cute,with a lot of adult asides – ones you wouldn’t pick up on when reading it with fresh eyes in elementary schools, yet make you raise eyebrows as an adult. The kids (with the exception of Charlie) are awful, but what I found most interesting is that the parents are even worse. Saying something perhaps?

If you haven’t read it, I suggest it. And if wondering, the second movie is much closer to the book than the original one (which, apparently, Dahl HATED).

(For more book reviews, check out my book blog: www.halfdesertedstreets.com)