In Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Veruca Salt faces a rather memorable fate that serves as a moral lesson for readers. Throughout the story, she is portrayed as a spoiled and demanding child, used to getting everything she wants without regard for others.
As the story progresses and the group of children tours Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory, Veruca’s true nature is revealed. When she encounters the nut-sorting squirrels, she decides that she wants one for herself. In her usual fashion, she screams and whines for it, insisting that she must have it. However, the squirrels, having a job to do, view her as a ‘bad nut’ because of her spoiled attitude.
In a twist of irony, the squirrels grab her and toss her down the garbage chute, which is a fitting consequence for her behavior. This moment underscores the idea that ill-mannered and selfish actions can lead to unfortunate outcomes. Veruca’s fate is a vivid reminder of the consequences of entitlement and greed, making it a memorable part of the story and a lesson for young readers.