I finally read Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones! I’d only known it as the anime and watched Studio Ghibli’s adaptation long before reading the book. I really enjoyed the Ghibli version, but I felt peaceful and calming vibe more in the book—perfect for unwinding after a long workday when you just need to relax.
Howl’s Moving Castle revolves around Sophie who is the unlucky eldest of three daughters, which basically means she’s doomed to fail if she ever tries to seek her fortune. But everything changes when she accidentally crosses paths with the Witch of the Waste, who curses her into the body of an old woman. Desperate to break the spell, Sophie heads to the mysterious, ever-moving castle in the hills—the home of the wizard Howl. To lift the curse, she has to deal with the tricky and heartless Howl, make a deal with a fire demon, and confront the Witch herself.
What I really love about this book is that it has a sweet, childlike sense of adventure that makes you feel a little brighter or more optimistic about the world—a refreshing change from somewhat negative view because of spending too much time in the internet.
The setting is beautiful and the description of quaint shops in the town, the untidy shop they live in, and the funny whimsical characters in the book is so fun to read.
The characters are wonderful. The constant bickering between the protagonists is so fun to read. They’re funny, brave, and have magical powers, but they’re also flawed, which makes them feel real and even more likable.
I’d highly recommend it for all ages. It would make a wonderful bedtime story for kids and teens, but adults will appreciate it just as much. It reminds you of the innocence of childhood and brings a bit of lightness back into life.
Have you read Howl’s Moving Castle? Who is your favorite character in it? Let me know in the comments! ❤️
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