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4.24 AVERAGE

adventurous emotional funny inspiring lighthearted relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

[21/166]

I wish I'd read this more closely in conjunction with Alice in Wonderland, because while the two both fall under the "absurdist children's literature" umbrella, The Phantom Tollbooth seems significantly more directed. In a way this makes it harder to reinterpret-- don't expect to see a Tim Burton "The Phantom Tollbooth" to rival his Alice in Wonderland, although I speak for everyone when I say it would be hilarious to see him try. I think it's unfortunate that The Phantom Tollbooth is significantly less well-known, though, because the characters are just as delightful and the world is filled with a constant barrage of quips. The overall message of finding interest, wonder, and seeking knowledge in the world around you is simple and straightforwards, but hey, epistemological kid's book. Your mileage with the assortment of jokes will vary entirely.

In this house, we appreciate Alec Bings.
funny hopeful lighthearted reflective fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

My mom and I read this to my kids. They loved it. So clever and great lessons too.
adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
fast-paced

I have wanted to read this book for quite some time since so many love it, I just assumed I would find it cute but not all that entertaining since it was a children's book and I'm an adult. Boy was I wrong, this is the type of story that appeals to anyone! Very cleverly written and entertaining, I think I would have been obsessed with this book had I read it as a kid.
adventurous lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: N/A
lighthearted fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes