Okay, here we go—day 2 of books not to be forgotten:
THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH
Author: Norton Juster
Genre: Children’s Literature
Published: 1961
The Phantom Tollbooth tells the story of a bored young boy named Milo who unexpectedly receives a magic tollbooth one afternoon and, having nothing better to do, decides to drive through it in his toy car. The tollbooth transports him to a land called the Kingdom of Wisdom. There he acquires two faithful companions, has many adventures, and goes on a quest to rescue the princesses of the kingdom, Princess Rhyme and Princess Reason. The text is full of puns, and many events, such as Milo's jump to the Island of Conclusions, exemplify literal meanings of English language idioms.
This book isn’t totally unknown, but it isn’t as well known as it should be. It is pure writing genius! They way Juster uses words—well it makes me want to drop the book and write. It is a fable for children about the joy of learning. I’m blown away every time I read it.
-Angie
5 comments:
Oh my gosh, I actually know about this book. I've never actually read it, I only saw it as a movie when I was young. I didn't even remember it until you posted about it. Cool.
I've actually never heard of this. Now I want to read it, though -- it almost reminds me of a Narnia book, but set for a younger reading group. Thanks for spotlighting it!
Love this book! I've got a copy somewhere...I think I'll blow the dust off and crack it open. Thanks for the reminder~
I loved this book when I read it in grade school! Thanks for reminding me of it - adding it to my Amazon shopping list...
Kim Karras
It's awful when you have books as clever and creative as this and they don't get the publicity they deserve. I have never heard of this book but it sounds darling. I would love to read it with my kids. So glad you shared.
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