In this first chapter, we are reminded that some parents over-estimate the abilities of their children while others "show no interest at all" in theirs. (p. 10) It is here that we learn Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood are the rotten sort. They are parents who were "so wrapped up in their silly little lives that they failed to notice anything unusual about their daughter." (p.10) It is then that we are introduced to little Matilda, and see just what the parents are missing. The author describes Matilda as sensitive and brilliant - but above all, brilliant. Her abilities are wasting away in a home that values TV more than literature, and Matilda does not truly begin to thrive until she befriends the local librarian. Mrs. Phelps introduces Matilda to the world of books meant for readers far beyond her 4 1/2 years of age. The books transport Matilda "into new worlds and introduced her to amazing people who lived exciting lives." (p. 21) Matilda then plays a series of pranks on her family in the coming chapters.
- What evidence do we have that suggests Matilda might be a child-genius?
- Give several examples to support the idea that Mr. and Mrs. Wormwood "looked upon Matilda in particular as nothing more than a scab." (p. 10)