54 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
179
Novel • Fiction
1985
Middle grade
8-12 years
750L
In Elizabeth Winthrop's The Castle in the Attic, 10-year-old William receives a toy castle from his departing nanny, Mrs. Phillips. The castle magically comes to life, introducing William to Sir Simon, a miniaturized knight who reveals a wizard's curse. William inadvertently shrinks Mrs. Phillips and joins the knight on a heroic quest to defeat the wizard, restore everyone to their rightful size, and save a land from evil. The book involves themes of magic, responsibility, and courage.
Adventurous
Fantastical
Mysterious
Heartwarming
Nostalgic
20,164 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Elizabeth Winthrop's The Castle in the Attic receives praise for its imaginative blend of fantasy and reality, engaging young readers with its adventurous plot. Critics appreciate its themes of bravery and personal growth. However, some note that pacing can be slow and character depth lacking. Overall, it remains a beloved children's classic for its enchanting storytelling.
Readers who enjoyed classic adventure tales like C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia or E.B. White's Charlotte's Web will be captivated by Elizabeth Winthrop's The Castle in the Attic. Ideal for middle-grade readers, this novel blends fantasy, friendship, and the timeless enchantment of miniature worlds.
20,164 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mrs. Phillips
William's longtime caregiver and maternal figure, who gives him the castle as a farewell gift before returning to her hometown in England.
Sir Simon / The Silver Knight
A toy soldier brought to life who assists William on a quest to reclaim his ancestral lands and offers mentorship and guidance.
Alastor
A malevolent wizard who is the primary antagonist, using his powers to oppress and control others, including transforming Sir Simon and manipulating events for his own gain.
Calendar
An elderly woman who was once Sir Simon's nursemaid and becomes a reluctant helper of Alastor; she provides crucial information to aid William's quest.
Tolliver
A young boy who encounters William in the forest and plays a supporting role by helping him communicate with Sir Simon.
Dick
A man who is freed from a magical curse by William, and who assists him by providing information to aid in his quest.
Dragon
A creature transformed from a pet cat that guards the castle entrance, representing a challenge William must overcome.
Mr. and Dr. Lawrence
William's loving but often absent parents, who begin to engage more in his life as the story progresses.
Coach Robert
William's dedicated gymnastics coach, providing mentorship that helps prepare him emotionally for challenges both in gymnastics and his magical adventures.
179
Novel • Fiction
1985
Middle grade
8-12 years
750L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.