“SILENCE,” suggested the King. “Now, young man, what can you do to entertain us? Sing songs? Tell stories? Compose sonnets? Juggle plates? Do tumbling tricks? Which is it?” “I can’t do any of those things,” admitted Milo. “What an ordinary little boy,” commented the king.

More from The Phantom Tollbooth

• “Don’t say it,” ghasped the dog, and Milo could see a tear well up in his eye. “I didn’t mean to hurt your feelings,” said Milo, not meaning to hurt his feelings.
• Of course, if you've ever gotten a surprise package, you can imagine how puzzled and excited Milo was; and if you've never gotten one, pay close attention, because someday you might.