Roald Dahl’s novel featuring Miss Trunchbull is Matilda.
Miss Trunchbull is the frightening headmistress of Crunchem Hall Primary School. A former hammer-throwing athlete, she rules the school through intimidation and cruel punishments. Her bullying contrasts with the kindness of Miss Honey, Matilda’s teacher.
Dahl published Matilda in 1988, near the end of his life. The title character is an exceptionally intelligent girl whose neglectful parents fail to appreciate her abilities. Matilda also develops psychokinetic powers, which help her confront the injustice around her.
The character has appeared in several adaptations. The 1996 film was directed by Danny DeVito, while the stage musical Matilda the Musical premiered in 2010 and later became a 2022 film. These adaptations retain the central conflict between Matilda and the authoritarian headmistress, although details differ between versions.