Who Would Like This Book:
If you love whimsical fantasy with a dash of fairy tale charm, this book is for you! "Howl’s Moving Castle" dazzles with imaginative world-building, quirky magical twists, and memorable characters who are equal parts flawed and lovable. Sophie’s transformation and unlikely adventure brims with wit and heart, while Howl’s infamous vanity is hilariously relatable. Readers of all ages - from middle graders to adults - can appreciate Diana Wynne Jones’ clever storytelling, dry British humor, and the refreshingly unpredictable plot. Fans of Studio Ghibli’s adaptation will enjoy seeing how the original takes them deeper into this magical world!
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers may find the plot a bit meandering or chaotic, especially if they prefer tightly focused stories. The tone can feel whimsical or even absurdist at times, which isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. Those looking for intense romance or highly detailed world-building might be frustrated, and a few have wished for more depth in certain character arcs or smoother pacing, especially toward the end. If you dislike stories involving magic or don’t enjoy the playful subversion of fairy tale conventions, this may not be your match.
About:
In "Howl's Moving Castle" by Diana Wynne Jones, readers are transported to the land of Ingary where magic is real. The story follows Sophie, the eldest of three sisters, who is cursed by a wicked witch and transformed into an old woman. Determined to break the curse, Sophie seeks help from the eccentric wizard Howl and his fire demon, Calcifer. As Sophie navigates through a world filled with magic, curses, and unexpected adventures, she discovers her own strength and courage. The book weaves together elements of fantasy, humor, and romance, creating a charming and heartwarming tale that captivates readers of all ages.
The writing style in "Howl's Moving Castle" is described as enchanting, witty, and engaging. Diana Wynne Jones crafts a world where imagination knows no bounds, with intricate plots, quirky characters, and unexpected twists that keep readers hooked from beginning to end. The story unfolds in a whimsical manner, blending fairy tale logic with modern elements, creating a unique and delightful reading experience.
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Notes:
Has Romance?
The romance aspect is present but not the primary focus of the story; it develops subtly throughout the narrative.
From The Publisher:
ALA Best Fiction for Young Adults
ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults
Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Honor Book
Book Sense Pick
ALA Notable Children's Book
Horn Book Fanfare
This entrancing classic fantasy novel is filled with surprises at every turn. An international bestseller, this much-loved book is the source for the Academy Award nominee for Best Animated Feature.
Sophie has the great misfortune of being the eldest of three daughters, destined to fail miserably should she ever leave home to seek her fate. But when she unwittingly attracts the ire of the Witch of the Waste, Sophie finds herself under a horrid spell that transforms her into an old lady. Her only chance at breaking it lies in the ever-moving castle in the hills: the Wizard Howl's castle.
To untangle the enchantment, Sophie must handle the heartless Howl, strike a bargain with a fire demon, and meet the Witch of the Waste head-on. Along the way, she discovers that there's far more to Howl-and herself-than first meets the eye.
In this giant jigsaw puzzle of a fantasy, people and things are never quite what they seem. Destinies are intertwined, identities exchanged, lovers confused. The Witch has placed a spell on Howl. Does the clue to breaking it lie in a famous poem? And what will happen to Sophie Hatter when she enters Howl's castle?
All fans of classic fantasy books deserve the pleasure of reading those by Diana Wynne Jones, whose acclaim included the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement. As Neil Gaiman stated, she was "quite simply the best writer for children of her generation."
The three books in the World of Howl are:
Howl's Moving Castle
Castle in the Air
House of Many Ways
Other beloved series from Dianna Wynne Jones include the Chronicles of Chrestomanci and the Dalemark Quartet.
Ratings (532)
Incredible (167) | |
Loved It (182) | |
Liked It (123) | |
It Was OK (48) | |
Did Not Like (11) | |
Hated It (1) |
Reader Stats (1118):
Read It (552) | |
Currently Reading (13) | |
Want To Read (384) | |
Did Not Finish (9) | |
Not Interested (160) |
18 comment(s)
Cute little book! Surprised how different it is from the movie.
You'll never hear this (or read it) from me again. The movie was better. I know that they are not completely tied to one another, but when there is a book and a movie my brain just has to compare. I loved the story, but I was held back because of my love for the movie (again I know they are different stories). I wasn't put off too much, because I have purchased the other 2 and cannot wait to start reading them.
3.5/5
I'm afraid that I only enjoyed the book because of how much I enjoy the movie. Hard to say, but (possibly unpopular opinion) I think I like the movie more.
There's something so beautiful about the way that old age is depicted in the movie, as of Sophie's curse is also a way to see life from another, slower angle. This book is a little more fiery and whimsical, but looses a touch of the gentleness that makes the Miyazaki version resonate so deeply.
Read it after seeing the movie and was intrigued to find out that the book is quite different from the movie. Still an enchanting story about overcoming hardships, friendship, love. A cozy and adventurous read with lots of fantastical quirks!
A spirited and mystical story about a determined, selfless young heroine trying to escape the misfortune of her birth as the eldest of three to make a life of her own. Lovely
it’s just like the movie and i was able to read it on like 3 days
This is the second time I have read this book and it won't be the last. I always reread books which have fascinated me the first time. When i fall in love with a book for the first time, I make sure to reread it at a different time and a different moment in my life to test if that love was true or it was just infatuation. My love for Diana Wynne Jones' books have stood the test of time. She does not spin mere tales of fancy but her characters come alive and have distinct personalities. I read all three Land of Ingary novels voraciously for Sophie and her family's presence. Reading about them in the other two books made me feel like meeting a friend I have sorely missed.
The setting of this story is interesting, but without a doubt the greatest strength (and focus) of this book is its characters and the story. The characters are all very charismatic, empathetic and with nuances to tell. They have their common threads with the mess that is the expanded story.
What the author does best, in my opinion, is the unpredictability and imaginativeness of the story and its twists and turns. From the first chapter that surprises. I've always thought that a good book takes you through moments and situations you never imagined, and this book does it very well.
On the negative side I have to say that even though it knows how to be unexpected and fast paced, it becomes very fast paced and giddy. If what is in the last 15 pages had been counted in 30, the book would be better in my opinion. I know the author wanted to do a lot of twists and turns and make the ending exciting. But I didn't enjoy it as I should.
Another book of hers I read (A Charmed Life) reminds me a lot of hers. But this one is not so slow in its beginning and I think it is better than that one. Although I recommend it if you like it.
Finally I have to add that although I loved the characters, the final shipping does not convince me at all. It's kind of nice but it doesn't convince me.
Of course I plan to read its sequel and the other books by this author. It seems that all of her books have imagination and quality.
“I think we ought to live happily ever after.”
4 ⭐️
I was between a 3.5 and 4 star rating for this but because it is such a classic I decided to go ahead and round up.
This is such an adorable little cozy fantasy. I think the crazy, fantastical, whimsical part of it was super fun. Almost none of it made sense but that’s what I loved about it. I think it got a little lost in the sauce in the middle and started meandering around without a goal but it picked up again and landed the ending.
I will say that I would not date my sister’s sloppy seconds. I don’t care how handsome he is or how much she loves another man now. That’s kinda wild.
What can you read after
Howl’s Moving Castle?
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