Here's why:
* Fictionalized elements: The book features fictionalized characters and events. While based on his own life, Dahl takes creative liberties to enhance the storytelling.
* Focus on specific experiences: "Boy" focuses on a specific period of Dahl's life, his childhood in England and boarding school in Wales, rather than a comprehensive biography.
* Emphasis on narrative: The book prioritizes a compelling narrative over a factual account.
Therefore, while "Boy" is undoubtedly influenced by Dahl's real life, it is a fictionalized version of his childhood experiences, making it a novel rather than an autobiography.