The Phantom Tollbooth

by Norton Juster and Jules Feiffer, Norton Juster
The Phantom Tollbooth cover
Good Books rating 4.49
Children's Fiction
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Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 1653
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780590409179
  • Published: 1961-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Phantom Tollbooth is a classic children's novel that takes readers on a fantastical journey through a world filled with wordplay and mathematical puzzles. Milo, the protagonist, finds a magical tollbooth in his room that transports him to the Kingdom of Wisdom, where he encounters a variety of eccentric characters and learns valuable lessons about life. The book is celebrated for its clever use of language and its ability to make learning fun. /n/n Written by Norton Juster and illustrated by Jules Feiffer, The Phantom Tollbooth has been a beloved favorite for generations. It's a story that combines adventure, humor, and education, making it a timeless classic that appeals to both children and adults. The book's unique blend of fantasy and wit has made it a staple in many classrooms and homes.

Reviews
Xine's Pack · 2023-07-04
masterpiece 4.75

The book is a literary masterpiece that captivates the imagination and sparks introspection. Norton's storytelling is skillful and thought-provoking.

Xine's Pack praises The Phantom Tollbooth as a literary masterpiece that captivates the imagination and sparks introspection. The reviewer highlights Norton Juster's skillful storytelling, which is both clever and thought-provoking. They appreciate the book's ability to engage readers with its imaginative world and deep themes, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.

Quick quotes

    A literary masterpiece, The Phantom Tollbooth captivates the imagination and sparks introspection.

    Norton's skillful storytelling, coupled with Jules Feiffer's illustrations, makes this book a timeless classic.

    The book's imaginative world and deep themes make it a must-read for all ages.

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.

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