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Skin
Skin is a macabre short story written by author Roald Dahl. It was first published in the May 17, 1952 issue of The New Yorker, and was later featured in the collection Skin and Other Stories, published in 2000. It was also adapted for television as part of Anglia Television's Tales of the Unexpected, broadcast on March 8, 1980.
Here, Roald Dahl, one of the world's favorite authors, tells a bitter-sweet story about one man's love for artwork, and how that love leads him to confront a Faustian bargain when it is least expected.
Roald Dahl, the brilliant and worldwide acclaimed author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, Matilda, and many more classics for children, also wrote scores of short stories for adults. These delightfully disturbing tales have often been turned into hit films, and even today, Roald Dahl's stories continue to make millions of readers shiver with his brilliant prose.
Here, Roald Dahl, one of the world's favorite authors, tells a bitter-sweet story about one man's love for artwork, and how that love leads him to confront a Faustian bargain when it is least expected.
Roald Dahl, the brilliant and worldwide acclaimed author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, James and the Giant Peach, Matilda, and many more classics for children, also wrote scores of short stories for adults. These delightfully disturbing tales have often been turned into hit films, and even today, Roald Dahl's stories continue to make millions of readers shiver with his brilliant prose.
21 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2002
10 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
About the author
Roald Dahl
1,501 books26.9k followersRoald Dahl was a beloved British author, poet, screenwriter, and wartime fighter pilot, best known for his enchanting and often darkly humorous children's books that have captivated generations of readers around the world. Born in Llandaff, Wales, to Norwegian parents, Dahl led a life marked by adventure, tragedy, creativity, and enduring literary success. His vivid imagination and distinctive storytelling style have made him one of the most celebrated children's authors in modern literature.
Before becoming a writer, Dahl lived a life filled with excitement and hardship. He served as a Royal Air Force pilot during World War II, surviving a near-fatal crash in the Libyan desert. His wartime experiences and travels deeply influenced his storytelling, often infusing his works with a sense of danger, resilience, and the triumph of the underdog. After the war, he began writing for both adults and children, showing a rare versatility that spanned genres and age groups.
Dahl's children's books are known for their playful use of language, unforgettable characters, and a deep sense of justice, often pitting clever children against cruel or foolish adults. Some of his most iconic titles include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The BFG, James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr Fox, and The Witches. These works are filled with fantastical elements and moral undertones, empowering young readers to challenge authority, think independently, and believe in the impossible.
Equally acclaimed for his work for adults, Dahl wrote numerous short stories characterized by their macabre twists and dark humor. His stories were frequently published in magazines such as The New Yorker and later compiled into bestselling collections like Someone Like You and Kiss Kiss. He also wrote screenplays, including the James Bond film You Only Live Twice and the adaptation of Ian Fleming's Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Despite his literary success, Dahl was a complex and sometimes controversial figure, known for his strong opinions and difficult personality. Nonetheless, his books continue to be treasured for their wit, originality, and the sense of wonder they inspire. Many of his stories have been adapted into successful films, stage plays, and television specials, further cementing his legacy.
Dahl's impact on children's literature is immeasurable. His ability to connect with young readers through a mix of irreverence, heart, and imagination has made his stories timeless. Even after his death, his books remain in print and continue to be read by millions of children worldwide. His writing not only entertains but also encourages curiosity, courage, and compassion.
Roald Dahl's work lives on as a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of a truly original voice. He remains a towering figure in literature whose creations continue to spark joy, mischief, and inspiration across generations.
Before becoming a writer, Dahl lived a life filled with excitement and hardship. He served as a Royal Air Force pilot during World War II, surviving a near-fatal crash in the Libyan desert. His wartime experiences and travels deeply influenced his storytelling, often infusing his works with a sense of danger, resilience, and the triumph of the underdog. After the war, he began writing for both adults and children, showing a rare versatility that spanned genres and age groups.
Dahl's children's books are known for their playful use of language, unforgettable characters, and a deep sense of justice, often pitting clever children against cruel or foolish adults. Some of his most iconic titles include Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, The BFG, James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr Fox, and The Witches. These works are filled with fantastical elements and moral undertones, empowering young readers to challenge authority, think independently, and believe in the impossible.
Equally acclaimed for his work for adults, Dahl wrote numerous short stories characterized by their macabre twists and dark humor. His stories were frequently published in magazines such as The New Yorker and later compiled into bestselling collections like Someone Like You and Kiss Kiss. He also wrote screenplays, including the James Bond film You Only Live Twice and the adaptation of Ian Fleming's Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Despite his literary success, Dahl was a complex and sometimes controversial figure, known for his strong opinions and difficult personality. Nonetheless, his books continue to be treasured for their wit, originality, and the sense of wonder they inspire. Many of his stories have been adapted into successful films, stage plays, and television specials, further cementing his legacy.
Dahl's impact on children's literature is immeasurable. His ability to connect with young readers through a mix of irreverence, heart, and imagination has made his stories timeless. Even after his death, his books remain in print and continue to be read by millions of children worldwide. His writing not only entertains but also encourages curiosity, courage, and compassion.
Roald Dahl's work lives on as a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of a truly original voice. He remains a towering figure in literature whose creations continue to spark joy, mischief, and inspiration across generations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
May 8, 2023
If you plan on getting any tattoos, just remember there is danger in turning your skin into a work of art. If you've read this book, you know why!
November 12, 2019
Chilling, bordering on macabre. So many twisted ways of the world to own that something precious ...so many twisted people.
October 16, 2020
My, but that got dark!
I really like Dahl's adult fiction. His children's fiction often goes right up to the line of inappropriateness. His adult fiction takes a toe in the sand and simply erases that line. I don't know fi he wrote with the idea of making his reader as uncomfortable as possible, but he certainly does. He lulls you into this sense of calm, with good description and scene setting and then slowly turns down the lights, leaves the front door open to creak back and forth and sneaks in the back to deliver the whammy.
This is about an old man recounting a friendship he had with a young artist. They have since fallen out of touch, but the man, quite by accident finds out that the young man's work has garnered much acclaim and is in great demand. Is there a profit to be made? That's all I am going to say.
I really like Dahl's adult fiction. His children's fiction often goes right up to the line of inappropriateness. His adult fiction takes a toe in the sand and simply erases that line. I don't know fi he wrote with the idea of making his reader as uncomfortable as possible, but he certainly does. He lulls you into this sense of calm, with good description and scene setting and then slowly turns down the lights, leaves the front door open to creak back and forth and sneaks in the back to deliver the whammy.
This is about an old man recounting a friendship he had with a young artist. They have since fallen out of touch, but the man, quite by accident finds out that the young man's work has garnered much acclaim and is in great demand. Is there a profit to be made? That's all I am going to say.
May 19, 2022
An absurd example of overt capitalism vs. covert capitalism. I liked it.
October 30, 2022
A literal "—ing" instead of the usual figural.
March 12, 2022
3.5 stars
Pros
+ short and macabre
+ painting & tattoos
Cons
- none
TW: implied death, tattooing
Pros
+ short and macabre
+ painting & tattoos
Cons
- none
TW: implied death, tattooing
May 4, 2024
Funny enough this is a current thriving industry lol
October 9, 2022
10October2022
Read as part of the collection Someone Like You.
Read as part of the collection Someone Like You.
Read
May 27, 2022I have read the story ,,Skin" by Roald Dahl recently.When l first heard the name of this book ,l thought a bit about what may happen about skin in it ,and this kept unpredictable until the scene in the art gallery.
l can say that it is one of the tragedic story about human value .The reason is that the tattoo painting on 1 person's body is valued more by some egoistic people rather than his life, skin in this story.After I read this book ,I feel sorry for Drioli who is lied with financial benefits by some dealers.He only wanted to live better but it didn't end as he hoped.
Like some other stories this is also unfinished by writer.Maybe writer wanted to make readers think about personages' lifestyle and give brief conclusion themselves by this.He did it . l can say l liked the story and although it is short I also enjoyed reading this.Because this is not the story which make readers bored with long descriptions about place or people.However ,to my view , if writer added some information about Houtine's death and how its paintings became famous ,it would be better and clearer.
l can say that it is one of the tragedic story about human value .The reason is that the tattoo painting on 1 person's body is valued more by some egoistic people rather than his life, skin in this story.After I read this book ,I feel sorry for Drioli who is lied with financial benefits by some dealers.He only wanted to live better but it didn't end as he hoped.
Like some other stories this is also unfinished by writer.Maybe writer wanted to make readers think about personages' lifestyle and give brief conclusion themselves by this.He did it . l can say l liked the story and although it is short I also enjoyed reading this.Because this is not the story which make readers bored with long descriptions about place or people.However ,to my view , if writer added some information about Houtine's death and how its paintings became famous ,it would be better and clearer.
June 8, 2025
Dahl’s characters are vividly drawn and memorable. The protagonist, a down-and-out man, elicits both sympathy and discomfort as he navigates his dire circumstances. The interactions between him and the wealthy art dealer create tension and highlight the moral dilemmas faced by both characters. This complexity adds depth to the story and encourages readers to reflect on their own values. At its core, “Skin” delves into themes of exploitation, the value of art, and the human condition. It raises questions about what people are willing to sacrifice for money and status, prompting readers to consider the moral implications of their own choices. The ending leaves a lasting impression, inviting reflection long after the final page is turned. In conclusion, Roald Dahl’s “Skin” is a captivating short story that showcases his talent. Its intriguing premise, complex characters, and thought-provoking messages make it a standout piece that resonates with readers on multiple levels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 16, 2023
Skin by Roald Dahl - Review
The story “Skin” by Roald Dahl describes Paris in the 1940s. Everything that happens to an old and lonely man named Drioli is directly related to the events that took place during his distant youth.
It is shocking that the main character is presented to the reader as a thing. He himself, probably, did not suspect that he would become such a thing for other people. It's creepy.
Here is the link to the text of the story:
https://artinfiction.wordpress.com/20...
The story “Skin” by Roald Dahl describes Paris in the 1940s. Everything that happens to an old and lonely man named Drioli is directly related to the events that took place during his distant youth.
It is shocking that the main character is presented to the reader as a thing. He himself, probably, did not suspect that he would become such a thing for other people. It's creepy.
Here is the link to the text of the story:
https://artinfiction.wordpress.com/20...
July 14, 2024
Dark and macabre – (implicit macabre, I guess the technical word is) this short piece packs a mean punch. Dig this – say you’re born during the Renaissance and Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino is your childhood buddy. He playfully draws a masterpiece on your back and you both forget about it. In another two decades the man becomes a world-renowned maestro whose works are sold by their weight in gold. How precious your back would be? How safe your back would be? Give it a go.
January 20, 2023
Honestly, I love Roald Dahl's work. It has wonderful twists and turns at every corner, and this short story didn't disappoint. There was something so captivating about this story that just put me on edge. Not just that, but it was certainly very macabre as everyone else has said and it was a great way of presenting the true horrors of human nature, even when you least expect it.
November 10, 2024
★: 4
Really admire Roald’s pen and talent in breathing life into such a short story, especially his writing is very evocative and thrilling.
Skin is chilling, macabre, and the tensión is built up so magnificently. The prose is stunning and gives a sense of calmness until it doesn’t.
Really enjoyed it.
Really admire Roald’s pen and talent in breathing life into such a short story, especially his writing is very evocative and thrilling.
Skin is chilling, macabre, and the tensión is built up so magnificently. The prose is stunning and gives a sense of calmness until it doesn’t.
Really enjoyed it.
July 16, 2025
BOOK CLUB BOOK NUMBER 3:
The majority of book club was spent discussing death, manipulation of the human experience, and the question of true altruism. Some of book club was dedicated to the book. The club rated Skin a humble 3.6/5, largely owed to the quality of chat, and were keen to sample another creepy Roald Dahl book in the future but kinda underwhelmed by this. Very on the nose.
The majority of book club was spent discussing death, manipulation of the human experience, and the question of true altruism. Some of book club was dedicated to the book. The club rated Skin a humble 3.6/5, largely owed to the quality of chat, and were keen to sample another creepy Roald Dahl book in the future but kinda underwhelmed by this. Very on the nose.
June 18, 2017
This was a really interesting short story and the mystery was a constant aspect of the tale which made me want to keep reading. Have to say, the ending was a little disappointing cause we didn't find out what happened but I suppose it was open to interpretation!
March 4, 2021
i read this during my english class and it intrigued me so much i started research about more of dahl's works.
they're bizarre and make you uncomfortable, they're eery and macabre but they convey such a good atmosphere that it's impossible to stop reading once you start.
they're bizarre and make you uncomfortable, they're eery and macabre but they convey such a good atmosphere that it's impossible to stop reading once you start.
October 23, 2023
Every story was fun to read. I did feel like many of the stories ended too early though. I know the intent was just the final big reveal, but many times I felt like there was more that could have still been explored. An enjoyable read, regardless.
May 19, 2025
Read in the penguin archive books released in 2025.
Roald Dahl Lamb to the Slaughter contains:
-Lamb to the Slaughter
-Skin
-My lady love, my dove
-The sound machine
-Taste
-The Great automatic grammatizator
Roald Dahl Lamb to the Slaughter contains:
-Lamb to the Slaughter
-Skin
-My lady love, my dove
-The sound machine
-Taste
-The Great automatic grammatizator
February 8, 2017
فكرة القصة جميلة للغاية، الفنان الذي بدأ مغمورا، اللوحة الفذة على ظهر البطل، أطماع صاحب الأتيليه، فقط صياغة النهاية هي التي كانت ضعيفة إلى حد ما.
November 10, 2017
Shocking but you expect from him.
August 8, 2018
A pointlessly painful plot.
July 30, 2019
Compelling in places, but the ending feels rushed.
October 30, 2020
2.5 stars. Meh.
December 4, 2020
3.5 stars
That ending though!
That ending though!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2021
Hit or miss when it comes to these stories - his writing is always interesting, but there's a lot of outdated bits here and others are just... not interesting...
January 20, 2022
Gostei bem menos desse conto do que dos outros. Ele só seguiu bem o que eu esperava que ia seguir. Nem o clima que eu sempre gosto dos contos de Roald Dahl foi bom nesse.
February 12, 2023
An interesting concept of capitalism and our need to own everything we possibly can.
April 5, 2023
4.75/5
I LOVED it
my favourite short story so far
I LOVED it
my favourite short story so far
Read
November 1, 2023Read this after seeing Wes Anderson’s Netflix adaptations of Roald Dahl scary stories, did not let down. Very scary always.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews