Known as one of the most talented modern writers, and possibly the greatest children’s author in history, Roald Dahl’s works have met great praise and criticism over the years. Although whimsical and heart-warming, his stories were often much darker than most children’s books, and were the subject of polarizing reviews. Similarly, his life as a student, pilot, spy, and father was full of fantastical highs—and unimaginably grim lows.