The Neverending Story by Michael Ende, translated by Ralph Manheim, is widely praised for its imaginative world and deep philosophical themes. Readers appreciate the vivid, mesmerizing narrative and its appeal to both children and adults. Some critics, however, note a complex structure that can be challenging. Nonetheless, it remains a timeless adventure.

Readers who relish richly-imagined fantasy worlds and epic adventures will adore Michael Ende's The Neverending Story. Comparable to J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit and C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia, this novel captivates those who appreciate intricate storytelling, timeless themes, and the magic of boundless imagination.

The Neverending Story by Michael Ende follows Bastian, a lonely boy who escapes into reading and enters the magical world of Fantastica threatened by "the Nothing." He must help Atreyu on a quest to save their world and discover a new name for the Childlike Empress. Bastian's journey in Fantastica is also a path to self-discovery, highlighting the power of imagination and the search for identity.

This novel includes themes of loss and grief.

Fantastical / Mysterious / Adventurous / Nostalgic / Contemplative

Michael Ende

Transl. Ralph Manheim

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Neverending Story reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Neverending Story | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Neverending Story and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Neverending Story Summary

Background

The Neverending Story Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Prologue-Chapter 3

The Neverending Story Prologue-Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-7

The Neverending Story Chapters 4-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-12

The Neverending Story Chapters 8-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-18

The Neverending Story Chapters 13-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-22

The Neverending Story Chapters 19-22 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 23-26

The Neverending Story Chapters 23-26 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Neverending Story Character Analysis

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Themes

The Neverending Story Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Neverending Story Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Neverending Story Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Neverending Story Essay Topics

The Neverending Story

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Neverending Story?

Reading Age

Book Details