I'd like to encourage you to read The Neverending Story. The movie notwithstanding, I believe it is worth your time.
The Neverending Story is a 1979 standalone book of about 500 pages, of which the 1984 movie you reviewed covers roughly the first half. That first half is essentially Atréju's story, and the setup for Bastian's story, which is about personal growth and covers the second half of the book. Where the movie's ending feels botched and unsatisfactory, the book does tie up the loose ends neatly. It's an easy and charming read, structured into 26 chapters with a specific topic for each. The language is straightforward yet engaging, the plot unfolds in linear time at a good pace.
I cannot vouch for the English translation, but I went back to re-read the original German version which I last read as a teenager, and I find that it holds up! In addition to the completed arc of Bastian's journey, I think you'll enjoy the many additional ideas and characters that make Phantásia come to life.
And by the way, you were right about the author not being happy with the movie. He even tried to stop the production, but failed.
I'd like to encourage you to read The Neverending Story. The movie notwithstanding, I believe it is worth your time.
The Neverending Story is a 1979 standalone book of about 500 pages, of which the 1984 movie you reviewed covers roughly the first half. That first half is essentially Atréju's story, and the setup for Bastian's story, which is about personal growth and covers the second half of the book. Where the movie's ending feels botched and unsatisfactory, the book does tie up the loose ends neatly. It's an easy and charming read, structured into 26 chapters with a specific topic for each. The language is straightforward yet engaging, the plot unfolds in linear time at a good pace.
I cannot vouch for the English translation, but I went back to re-read the original German version which I last read as a teenager, and I find that it holds up! In addition to the completed arc of Bastian's journey, I think you'll enjoy the many additional ideas and characters that make Phantásia come to life.
Sounds a lot like Deltarune's plot
The author of the book, Michael Ende, hates the movie(s). I think that says a lot :)