Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

• Genre: Fiction; fantasy; children’s literature
• Originally Published: 1964
• Reading Level/Interest: Lexile 810L; grades 3-7
• Structure/Length: 30 chapters; approx. 155 pages; approx. 3 hours, 18 minutes on audiobook
• Protagonist/Central Conflict: The story centers around Charlie Bucket, a poor boy who wins a Golden Ticket to tour Willy Wonka’s mysterious and magical chocolate factory, along with four other children. The central conflict revolves around the children’s experiences within the factory as they face consequences for their behavior, while Charlie’s kindness and humility lead to an unexpected reward.
• Potential Sensitivity Issues: Depictions of children in perilous or uncomfortable situations as a result of their flaws; themes of poverty and economic disparity; exaggerated portrayals of greed and gluttony

Roald Dahl, Author

• Bio: Born in 1916 in Wales to Norwegian parents; died in 1990; celebrated as one of the most beloved children’s authors of the 20th century; known for his imaginative narratives, memorable characters, and mix of humor and dark elements.
• Other Works: James and the Giant Peach (1961); The BFG (1982); The Witches (1983); Matilda (1988)
• Awards: New England Round Table of Children’s Librarians Award (1972); Millennium Children’s Book Award (2000); Blue Peter Book Award (2000)

CENTRAL THEMES connected and noted throughout this Teaching Guide: