This isn't a deep literary masterpiece like some of Dahl's longer novels—it's a punchy, mean-spirited (in a fun way) fable.
It holds up remarkably well for a book from 1978 because the pacing is fast and the villain is such a buffoon. While some modern picture books play it very safe, Dahl isn't afraid to let a crocodile try to eat a toddler, which is exactly why kids still want to read it. It’s a solid, funny choice that won't bore you to tears while you're reading it for the tenth time.






