The 13 Clocks
The 13 Clocks
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1950
Book Brief
128
Novel • Fiction
Gondor • Fantasy World
1950
YA
8-12 years
Super Short Summary
The 13 Clocks by James Thurber is a whimsical fantasy tale featuring an evil Duke who has halted time. A valiant prince must complete a near-impossible task to win the hand of the Duke's niece, Princess Saralinda. The narrative unfolds with magical elements, mythical creatures, and clever wordplay woven throughout the story.
Fantastical
Mysterious
Playful
Humorous
Romantic
Reviews & Readership
9,279 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The 13 Clocks by James Thurber is celebrated for its whimsical prose, inventive plot, and rich, allegorical content. The fairy tale's vivid characters and humorous, lyrical style captivate readers, while some critics note its brevity limits depth. Its charm and cleverness generally outweigh this, delighting both children and adults with its timeless appeal.
Who Should Read The 13 Clocks?
A reader who enjoys The 13 Clocks by James Thurber would likely appreciate whimsical, fairy-tale-like narratives with a touch of satire and wit. Fans of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll or The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, both known for their imaginative plots and playful language, might find similar enjoyment in Thurber's work.
9,279 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
128
Novel • Fiction
Gondor • Fantasy World
1950
YA
8-12 years
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