The Neverending Story

by Michael Ende
The Neverending Story cover
Good Books rating 3.62
Fantasy, Young Adult (YA)
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99–£8.99 Hardback • £16.99
Bookshop
Format • £7.59
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Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 833
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • ISBN: 9780140076196
  • Publisher: Penguin Group
  • Published: 1984-01-01
  • Formats: 95
  • Reviews: 4

In 'The Neverending Story,' shy and awkward Bastian discovers a mysterious book that pulls him into a fantastical world where he is not just a reader but a participant. As he delves deeper into the story, Bastian realizes he has a crucial role to play, one that could shape the fate of the enchanting realm he has entered. /n/n The novel is a captivating blend of adventure and fantasy, exploring themes of self-discovery and the power of imagination. It's a story that will appeal to readers who enjoy immersive worlds and characters who must confront their own fears and insecurities to fulfill their destinies.

Reviews
Medium · 2026-01-05
heartbreaking 4.00

The book is a wonderful meditation on humility, memory, and truth, with some heartbreaking moments.

The reviewer finds 'The Neverending Story' to be a wonderful meditation on important themes such as humility, memory, and truth. They highlight some startlingly heartbreaking moments that add depth to the story. The reviewer appreciates the emotional impact of the book and its thoughtful exploration of these themes. The book's ability to evoke strong emotions and provoke deep reflection is noted as a significant strength. The reviewer's perspective is one of admiration for the book's emotional and philosophical depth.

Quick quotes

    It is a wonderful meditation on the importance of humility, memory, and truth.

    There are some startlingly heartbreaking moments.

    I am not...

N.S. Ford Writer · N.S. Ford · 2025-10-13
intelligent 4.50

The novel is seen as an intelligent epic fantasy that is more appreciated by adults due to its symbolic depth.

N.S. Ford considers The Neverending Story an intelligent epic fantasy novel that, while written for children, is best appreciated by adults. They believe much of the story is symbolic, adding layers of meaning that make it a rich and thought-provoking read. The novel's depth and complexity are its standout features, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy deeper narratives.

Quick quotes

    An intelligent, epic fantasy novel for children but possibly best appreciated by adults.

    I think much of it is symbolic.

    The reader is often invited to take a more interactive role in ...

Jami Fairleigh's Blog · Jami Fairleigh · 2024-05-17
thoughtful 3.00

The book explores themes of imagination and self-belief, but the reviewer found it challenging. They consider it valuable despite their struggles with the novel.

Jami Fairleigh delves into the themes of imagination and self-belief in The Neverending Story, finding them profound and impactful. However, they admit to struggling more with the novel than they expected. Despite this, they consider it a valuable read, appreciating its depth and the messages it conveys. Fairleigh's review suggests that while the book might be challenging, it offers a rich and rewarding experience.

Quick quotes

    The book dives deep into themes like the power of imagination and self-belief.

    And while I struggled with the novel more than I expected to, it's a valuable read.

    It's a book that makes you think and feel deeply.

Jami Fairleigh · Jami Fairleigh · 2024-05-17
valuable 3.00

The book explores deep themes like the power of imagination and self-belief, but the reviewer struggled with it more than expected. It is considered a valuable read despite the challenges.

Jami Fairleigh delves into the profound themes of imagination and self-belief presented in The Neverending Story. They found the book more challenging than anticipated, which might be due to its complex narrative and philosophical undertones. Despite these struggles, they acknowledge the book's value, particularly in how it encourages readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the power of their imagination. The reviewer's personal connection to the book adds a layer of depth to their appreciation, even if it wasn't an easy read.

Quick quotes

    The book dives deep into themes like the power of imagination and self-belief.

    And while I struggled with the novel more than I expected to, it's a valuable read.

    It's a book that encourages readers to reflect on their own beliefs and the power of their imagination.

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