I’m not sure if the book Matilda is still a favorite of today’s young readers, but it should be. Written by Roald Dahl and published in 1988, Matilda tells the story of a young girl neglected by her terrible family. However, is not an ordinary little girl – she’s a genius with some very ‘unique’ talents.
Like many Dahl stories, Matilda walks the line between darkness and humor. Some even argue that some of the subject matter may be too dark for younger children. But, there is a lightheartedness to the pranks that young Matilda plays in the story, and she will be forever remembered as a strong female lead who manages to overcome the difficulties that life presents to her.
In 1996, the book was adapted to film for the big screen. The project was led and directed by none other than Danny DeVito. He also played the horrible father in the movie, the complete opposite of the role he would play in real life.
Mara Wilson, who had been in the films Mrs. Doubtfire and Miracle on 34th Street was tapped to play the title role of Matilda. It was a fantastic time for Mara’s career but would prove to be one of the most difficult periods of her life. During filming, Mara’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer and passed away before the final film was released.
It’s been 20 years since the film was released, and Mara has written a book about her life titled, Where Am I Now?. She’s also sharing the heartwarming story of how Danny DeVito and then wife Rhea Perlman cared for her when her mother was in the hospital. She spent time with the couple at their home and DeVito would do something incredibly special to help Mara on the path to healing after her mother’s death.
Read on for more of Mara and Danny’s story:
