Question

why was Mrs Phelps surprised to see her?​

Answer 1

Answer:

I think that Mrs. Phelps senses Matilda has a unique personality and needs a special kind of emotional reinforcement. She does not question Matilda's outlandish statements, like having read every book in the children's section, and just encourages Matilda to explore more books and information.

Answer 2

Answer:

On the afternoon of the day when her father had refused to buy her a book, Matilda set out all by herself to walk to the public library in the village. When she arrived, she introduced herself to the librarian, Mrs Phelps. She asked if she might sit awhile and read a book. Mrs Phelps, slightly taken aback at the arrival of such a tiny girl unaccompanied by a parent, nevertheless told her she was very welcome.

Explanation:

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