Mr Hoppy is hopelessly in love with Mrs Silver, a lonely widow who adores her pet tortoise, Alfie. Mr Hoppy concocts a clever plan to help Alfie "grow" — using a series of clever tricks involving switchable tortoises and hidden cable ties. As Alfie appears to grow bigger, Mrs Silver’s affection turns toward Mr Hoppy. It’s a charming tale of love, subtle magic, and Dahl’s signature playful humor.