The Phantom Tollbooth

by Norton Juster and Jules Feiffer, Norton Juster
The Phantom Tollbooth cover
Good Books rating 4.3
Children's Fiction
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Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 1653
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9780590409179
  • Published: 1961-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Phantom Tollbooth is a captivating tale that takes young Milo on an extraordinary journey through a fantastical world filled with wordplay and numerical puzzles. This enchanting story not only entertains but also teaches the importance of language and logic in a way that is both fun and thought-provoking./n/nWritten by Norton Juster, this classic children's book has been beloved by generations for its clever humor and imaginative storytelling. The book's unique blend of fantasy and education makes it a timeless treasure that continues to inspire young readers to explore the wonders of learning.

Reviews
Chick Who Reads Everything · 2022-03-07
delightful 4.50

The book is a wonderful classic kids' book, filled with silliness and valuable lessons. Its imaginative world and clever wordplay make it a delightful read.

The reviewer concludes that The Phantom Tollbooth is a wonderful classic kids' book, highlighting its silliness and the valuable lessons it contains. They appreciate the book's imaginative world and clever wordplay, which make it a delightful read. The reviewer notes that the story's unique blend of humor and wisdom resonates with both children and adults, making it a timeless classic. They also mention that the book's enduring popularity is a testament to its charm and depth.

Quick quotes

    The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster is a wonderful classic kids' book.

    It's very silly, and it contains a ...

    The book's imaginative world and clever wordplay make it a delightful read.

Yvette Carol's Blog · Yvette Carol · 2021-03-25
intriguing 4.20

The book's intriguing title and simple yet profound story captivate readers. The reviewer appreciates the tale of a bored child finding adventure and purpose.

Yvette Carol finds The Phantom Tollbooth intriguing from the very title, drawing readers in with its promise of adventure. She appreciates the simplicity of the story, which follows a bored child named Milo who discovers a world of wonder and purpose. Carol highlights how the book's themes of curiosity and exploration resonate deeply with readers, making it a memorable and impactful read. She praises the book for its ability to engage and inspire, leaving a lasting impression on those who venture into its pages.

Quick quotes

    The book has an intriguing title. I have to say; I read with great curiosity.

    While at heart this is a simple story, the tale of a bored child finding adventure and purpose is universally appealing.

    The book's themes of curiosity and exploration resonate deeply with readers.

The Guardian · 2020-04-23
timeless 4.50

The book's complexity initially puzzled critics, who debated whether it was more suited for adults. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to challenge and engage readers of all ages.

The reviewer highlights how The Phantom Tollbooth was initially met with confusion by critics who wondered if its intricate wordplay and themes were better suited for adults. However, they emphasize that the book's true magic is its ability to captivate both children and adults alike. The story's imaginative world and clever humor make it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers across generations. The reviewer fondly recalls the book's impact on them as a child and appreciates its enduring relevance.

Quick quotes

    When The Phantom Tollbooth first came out, critics found it so challenging that some wondered if it was better suited to adults.

    The book's true magic is its ability to captivate both children and adults alike.

    It's a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers across generations.

Escape Pod · 2013-06-10
clever 4.00

The novel is praised for its clever wordplay and humor, making it enjoyable for readers of all ages. Its short length makes it accessible for a quick yet fulfilling read.

The reviewer at Escape Pod commends The Phantom Tollbooth for its clever wordplay and humor, which make it a delightful read for both children and adults. They note that the book's relatively short length, with only twenty chapters, makes it an accessible and enjoyable read. The reviewer highly recommends it to anyone who hasn't yet experienced this classic tale, emphasizing its universal appeal and the joy it brings to readers of all ages.

Quick quotes

    At twenty chapters, The Phantom Tollbooth isn't a terribly long novel for an adult to read.

    If you haven't read it, I recommend it; if you have, it's worth revisiting.

    The book is suitable for readers of all ages, with its clever wordplay and humor.

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