The Upside-Down Charm: Unraveling Roald Dahl's ESIO TROT, Our Book of the Day!
Sep 6th 2026
Today's Pick
Unraveling the Upside-Down Charm of ESIO TROT
Do you remember the sheer delight of discovering a Roald Dahl book for the first time? That moment when you realized stories could be witty, a little mischievous, and utterly magical? Today, we're inviting you back into that whimsical world with a truly special find: a vintage 1990 First Edition, 2nd Printing of Roald Dahl's enchanting tale, ESIO TROT. It's a story that perfectly embodies the cleverness and heart that made Dahl a literary legend, ready to charm a new generation or bring a nostalgic smile to an old one.
About the Book
ESIO TROT, which is (cleverly!) TORTOISE spelled backward, is a delightful story of shy love, ingenious plans, and a very special tortoise named Alfie. Our hero, Mr. Hoppy, is a lonely bachelor with a passion for growing plants on his balcony. His heart, however, belongs to his downstairs neighbor, Mrs. Silver, who adores her pet tortoise, Alfie, but wishes he would grow bigger. Unable to express his feelings directly, Mr. Hoppy concocts an elaborate, wonderfully Dahl-esque scheme involving a secret collection of tortoises, a strategically placed net, and a magical, backward incantation.
This charming hardcover edition, complete with its original dust jacket, captures the story in its original glory. Published in 1990 by Viking, this First Edition, 2nd Printing features the iconic and whimsical illustrations of Quentin Blake, whose distinctive style is as integral to the Dahl experience as the words themselves. It’s in very good pre-owned condition, showing only light edgewear with a secure binding and no distracting handwriting, making it a beautiful piece for any collector or a sturdy read for a child. For those who cherish vintage children's literature and the enduring magic of Roald Dahl, this copy is a true treasure.
Meet the Author
Roald Dahl (1916-1990) remains one of the most beloved and influential children's authors of all time. His unique voice, characterized by dark humor, vivid imagination, and a profound understanding of children's perspectives, created timeless classics that continue to captivate readers worldwide. From the fantastical adventures of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to the empowering tale of Matilda and the heartwarming giants of The BFG, Dahl's works are celebrated for their memorable characters, inventive plots, and underlying messages about kindness, courage, and standing up to bullies. ESIO TROT showcases Dahl's softer, more romantic side, proving his versatility and enduring appeal across a spectrum of emotions.
Lifestyle & Reading Vibes
Imagine curling up with ESIO TROT on a lazy Sunday afternoon, perhaps with a cup of tea and a plate of biscuits, just like Mr. Hoppy might enjoy. This book is perfect for sharing aloud, its rhythmic prose and charming story making it an instant favorite for bedtime reading. Fans of quirky, feel-good cinema like Amélie or those who appreciate the gentle humor of authors such as A.A. Milne will find themselves utterly charmed. Consider putting on a whimsical, orchestral playlist – something reminiscent of a classic film score – to truly immerse yourself in the delightful world of balconies, tortoises, and secret affections. It's also a wonderful candidate for a book club looking for a lighter, heartwarming read with plenty of cleverness to discuss, or a thoughtful gift for a young reader, a grandparent, or that special someone who appreciates a story about love found in unexpected places.
Your Chance to Own a Piece of Dahl Magic
Don't let this little gem slip away! This vintage 1990 First Edition, 2nd Printing of Roald Dahl’s ESIO TROT, with its beloved Quentin Blake illustrations and hardcover binding, is a fantastic addition to any collection or a delightful introduction to Dahl for a new generation. Priced at just $49.99, it's an accessible piece of literary history. Given its very good condition and status as a vintage first edition, it's a unique find that won't last long. Click the link below to bring home this enchanting tale and add a touch of Dahl magic to your library today!