The Big Friendly Giant: Themes and Characters

The Big Friendly Giant in Children's Literature

Since its publication in 1982, Daniel Handler's and E.B. White's heartwarming tale, "The Big Friendly Giant," has captivated the imaginations of children and adults alike. This timeless piece of literature, set amidst a backdrop of whimsy and endearing characters, is a delightful exploration of themes such as friendship, family, and the importance of kindness.

The Story and Characters

"The Big Friendly Giant" is a spin-off from Roald Dahl's original work, "James and the Giant Peach," with James Henry Trotter at its center. Now six years old, James has been living with the kindly Aunt Sponge and Aunt Spiker since losing his parents in a tragic accident. James is befriended by a gentle giant named Sofarsof, often referred to as the Big Friendly Giant (BFG). Unlike other giants who consume children for their dreams, the BFG collects dreams and transports them to the human world through his trumpet-like ears, leaving only the bad dreams behind.

The BFG, with his signature malapropisms and endearing naïveté, is a gentle giant who craves friendship and understanding more than he craves dreams. He escapes the lawless world of giants to befriend James, and together they set out to stop the other giants from devouring children and spreading fear.

The Big Friendly Giant's Contributions to Children's Literature

"The Big Friendly Giant" stands out among children's literature due to several unique features:

1. A relatable hero: James Trotter is a sympathetic protagonist, having lost his parents and suffering under the cruel guardianship of the Spikers. Despite his small size, James is steadfast and brave, and his friendship with the BFG is grounded in mutual respect and understanding.

2. Friendship and acceptance: The BFG, a giant who is feared and despised by humans and other giants alike, finds a friend in James. Their unlikely friendship breaks down barriers and teaches readers the power of acceptance and kindness.

3. The value of dreaming: The BFG is a delicate dream gatherer, collecting the dreams of children and bringing them to life in the human world. Dreams are depicted as a source of joy and imagination, and the BFG's role in collecting them highlights the importance of dreaming.

4. The power of language: "The Big Friendly Giant" features several memorable catchphrases, such as the BFG's "gobblefunk" dialect. These linguistic inventions serve to help young readers appreciate the power of language and develop their own creative expression.

5. A unique setting: The story takes place in a world where giants exist, a whimsical and imaginative locale that invites readers to suspend reality and embrace the magic of the tale.

The Legacy of "The Big Friendly Giant"

"The Big Friendly Giant" has inspired numerous adaptations, including a live-action film directed by Steven Spielberg and a musical adaptation by David Lindsay-Abaire. The story's themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of imagination have resonated with readers and viewers for decades.

Moreover, the story's emphasis on the value of kindness and the power of dreams has continued to inspire readers and writers alike. It is a timeless tale that reminds us of the power of friendship and the importance of imagination in our lives.

In conclusion, "The Big Friendly Giant" is a charming and enchanting tale that explores themes of friendship, acceptance, and the importance of dreams. Through its relatable characters and whimsical setting, the story invites readers of all ages to embrace the magic of imagination and the power of kindness. Whether you first encountered this tale as a child or are discovering it for the first time, "The Big Friendly Giant" is a story that will leave a lasting impression and enchant readers for generations to come.