The Phantom Tollbooth, by Norton Juster
Like many people of all ages, young Milo is often bored. He can't find anything in the world worth appreciating, and he is always wishing he were somewhere else. He is saved from a life of boredom by the appearance of a mysterious tollbooth, which transports him to a hilariously magical world full of adventure and puns. Of course, the journey changes him, and by the time he completes his quest and returns home, he finds that even his own world can be interesting.
I'm always surprised by the number of people I meet who seem to feel like Milo felt in the beginning of the book. The number of interesting things one can find to do in this world is mind-boggling. So, the main reason this book is part of the Primer is that it encourages the reader to appreciate the many interesting and beautiful possibilities the world has to offer. It also encourages imagination and humor, and can be appreciated on many different levels depending on the age of the reader.
I can't think of anything that compares to this style of humor and adventure, but children who enjoy this might enjoy books by Roald Dahl.
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