Back to Wheel of Books
Cover of The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me

The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me

by Roald Dahl

Fiction ChildrensFantasyClassicsMiddle GradeAnimalsYoung Adult

Book Description

When a young boy dreams of adventure, he never expects to befriend a talking giraffe and a clever pelican. Together, they embark on a daring quest to save a beleaguered candy shop from the clutches of a greedy villain. With high-flying antics and a wild spirit, this enchanting tale spins a web of laughter and unexpected friendship. Secrets unfold in the most surprising ways, as courage and creativity blaze a trail to justice. Can this unlikely trio outsmart their foes and restore sweetness to the world? Get ready for a whimsical ride that will leave hearts racing and spirits soaring!

Quick Summary

"The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me" by Roald Dahl is a whimsical tale about Billy, a young boy whose fascination with a dilapidated old sweet shop leads him into an extraordinary adventure. When the building becomes home to an unusual window-cleaning company run by a talking giraffe, pelican, and monkey, Billy’s life takes a magical turn. As the trio are hired to clean the Duke of Hampshire’s massive windows, they encounter a daring theft, leading them to work together to outsmart the burglar and save the day. Through teamwork, quick thinking, and friendship, Billy and his animal friends not only uncover a sweet reward but also help restore the candy shop to its former glory, fulfilling everyone’s greatest wishes in the most imaginative ways.

Summary of Key Ideas

Imagination and the Magic of Friendship

Billy spends his days gazing longingly at the decaying Grubber sweet shop, dreaming of its revival. His vivid imagination is sparked one day by a remarkable event: the arrival of the Ladderless Window-Cleaning Company, staffed by an incredibly tall, flexible-necked giraffe, a quick-witted pelican with a bucket-like beak, and a nimble monkey. Their friendly banter and unique talents instantly leave Billy captivated, setting the stage for a wondrous friendship between boy and beasts.

Unexpected Teamwork and Problem Solving

Together, they land a prestigious job: cleaning all 677 windows at the Duke of Hampshire’s grand estate. The company’s teamwork shines—while the giraffe elevates everyone with her long neck, the pelican scoops up water with his beak, and the monkey skillfully scrubs the glass. Billy assists eagerly, and the animals’ teamwork not only gets results but also brings new life to their unusual profession, showing that creative collaboration can solve any challenge.

Overcoming Greed with Courage

In the midst of their window-cleaning, the group witnesses a burglar attempting to rob the Duke’s valuable jewels. Quick-thinking and resourceful, the pelican captures the thief, holding him securely until the police arrive. Their courage and determination foil the villain’s plan, showing that even the most unlikely team of friends can overcome greed and wrongdoing when they work together for a noble cause.

Dreams Coming True in Surprising Ways

Their heroic actions lead to heartfelt rewards. The Duke is so grateful he grants each member of the Ladderless Window-Cleaning Company their fondest wish: the monkey gets endless walnuts, the pelican receives a safe new home, and the giraffe’s dietary needs are met. Billy’s dream comes true as the Grubber is restored into a vibrant sweet shop, where joy and treats flow endlessly, uniting the friends in ongoing adventure and delight.