• $20

The LitWits Video Workshop on THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH


During our "field trip" through this book's narrative arc, we'll pause to take part in Milo's (and the author's and illustrator's ) experiences. And we'll be learning as we go, just like Milo!

Includes video instruction, printables, and a list of inexpensive supplies, plus CCSS alignment for grades 3-6.
Fun "field trips" through classic children's literature - experiential learning from LitWits Workshops
"My kids both said unequivocally: “I want to do that again.” I was worried that it might be a little too schooly for my PTSD (post-traumatic school disorder) kids—sitting still, worksheets—but you guys clearly made it fun and engaging.  Thank you for that."

"Becky and Jenny  . . . make the exploration of each book look like an entertaining adventure that students will be eager to join." 
—Read Cathy Duffy's full review!
Facing the Dodecahedron - fun activity for teaching THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH by Norton Juster - LitWits Workshops

What we'll do

Once we've shared the concept of the narrative arc, your kids will design words from Word Market purchases, step into the illustrator's shoes, dine on Dictionopolis banquet (and prison) fare like Milo did, define idioms through images, translate music into color in a twist on Chroma's talents, collect and label Dr. Dischord's lab specimens, face the Dodecahedron 12 times, and make fun puns out of homophones, like Norton Juster did. And when they get back, there'll be a travel sticker waiting for them, proving they've been to the Lands Beyond.

This workshop video (42m) includes pauses for activities, so it can easily provide at least three hours of fun, hands-on learning.

What your child will get

  • An audiovisual introduction to the author
  • An overview of the concept of the narrative arc
  • A walk-through of the story’s plot, point by point, pausing every so often to “do what the characters (or author) did,” including:
  • Creative writing
  • Instructions and printables for at least two projects or activities that get kids into the story
  • A fun idea for a straight-from-the-story snack (what we call “BookBites”), often with story packaging
  • Story activity mementos layered with meaning
  • Lifelong benefits:  memories of a great time exploring a great book, and the inspiration to read many more; an influential model of someone who learned how to cope and overcome; and valuable academic lessons.
Online video course on THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH by Norton Juster - LitWits Workshops

FAQ

What does my child need to do to prepare?

Just read (or listen to) the story before the workshop. We strongly recommend reading purely for enjoyment, with no assignments or learning goals in mind. We'll be sharing the important stuff during the workshop! 

Are abridged versions okay?

Sure! Any abridged version is better than watching the movie. Dramatized or recorded books are fine too--even better, if your child struggles to read. The point is to get the story in his or her head, as effortlessly as possible.

What do I need to do?

Just print the papers and collect the supplies listed in your Prep Packet--we've made them easy to find, and inexpensive. It's perfectly okay to substitute anything that works better for your child's needs or your time and budget.

For extra fun, pack it up as a LitWits Kit! Put the supplies in a box with our welcome note for your child. Kids love the "slow reveal" of opening their kits with us, and taking out each item as needed, one at a time. That's it! We'll take it from there.

Once the workshop starts, you may want to be nearby in case your child needs assistance--that's up to you. (We've tried to make that unnecessary, with simplicity and careful instructions, but you know your child best.) There are also some "pause and think" moments in most workshops, where you might like to engage your child in discussion.

What if my child can't write?

Our writing handout is creative writing, where the imagination matters most. Have your child dictate his or her writing to you; after you've written it down, read it aloud with inflection and enthusiasm, so s/he can hear that their words sound "just like a real writer!"  

Can my child participate in your live Zoom workshop, where you send the supplies?

Of course, if there's room--we'd love to meet him or her in person (two-dimensionally, anyway)! We limit our two sessions to 25 kids each, and the sessions usually sell out fast. Check out our live Zoom schedule here.

Can I get a refund if it doesn't work out?

Yes of course! Just email beckyandjenny@LitWits.com and let us know what could have been better, so we can improve. This is our bread-and-butter, so your feedback literally helps FEED us! :)  
Any other questions? Just ask!
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About this story

For Milo, everything’s a bore. When a tollbooth mysteriously appears in his room, he drives through only because he’s got nothing better to do. But on the other side, things seem different. Milo visits the Island of Conclusions (you get there by jumping), learns about time from a ticking watchdog named Tock, and even embarks on a quest to rescue Rhyme and Reason! Somewhere along the way, Milo realizes something astonishing: Life is far from dull. In fact, it’s exciting beyond his wildest dreams  —Read reviews / buy the book on Amazon. We make a small commission on anything you buy through our Amazon affiliate links.
Learning from mistakes - themes for teaching THE PHANTOM TOLLBOOTH by Norton Juster - LitWits Workshops

What's most important

The Phantom Tollbooth is a fun, easy read—but it’s densely packed with wisdom, and gently drives home the value of education. This story and our workshop activities revolve around the benefits (and joy) of lifelong, real-world learning.