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A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Bad Beginning
Violet, Klaus, and Sunny Baudelaire are intelligent children. They are charming, and resourceful, and have pleasant facial features. Unfortunately, they are exceptionally unlucky.
In the first two books alone, the three youngsters encounter a greedy and repulsive villain, itchy clothing, a disastrous fire, a plot to steal their fortune, a lumpy bed, a deadly serpent, a large brass reading lamp, a long knife, and a terrible odour.
In the tradition of great storytellers, from Dickens to Dahl, comes an exquisitely dark comedy that is both literary and irreverent, hilarious and deftly crafted. Never before has a tale of three likeable and unfortunate children been quite so enchanting, or quite so uproariously unhappy.
Ages 10+
Why it's similar
Both books feature highly intelligent, book-loving children who use their sharp intellects to outsmart grotesque, neglectful, and cruel adult guardians. They also share a satirical, slightly dark narrative tone that treats children's perspectives with seriousness.
What's different
Unlike Matilda, which features telekinetic powers and culminates in a triumphant, happy domestic ending, this story is realistic gothic absurdity characterized by persistent misfortune and a pervasive sense of gloom.