Book Review: Howl’s Moving Castle

Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones is a timeless classic full of whimsical charm and delightful characters. From the moment you step into this world, you're swept away on a magical journey.

A BRIEF SUMMARY

Sophie, the eldest of three sisters, finds herself cursed by the Witch of the Waste and transformed into an old lady. Determined to break the spell, Sophie sets off in search of a solution and finds herself at the doorstep of the mysterious Wizard Howl's moving castle. What follows is a delightful adventure filled with eccentric characters, magical encounters, and unexpected twists. Whether it’s outrunning a scarecrow that’s come to life or travelling to distant lands in hardly any time at all, we never know what’s going to come next. Still, Sophie must rely on the most feared Wizard of all to help her break the curse.

WHAT I LOVED

One of the standout features of Howl's Moving Castle is its cast of characters, each with their own unique quirks and personalities. From the grumpy yet charming Howl to the enigmatic fire demon Calcifer (my personal favorite), every character adds depth and richness to the story. Sophie herself is a captivating protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery and empowerment resonates with readers of all ages. Even the castle becomes a character in its own right, providing a fun backdrop for the unfolding adventure.

One of the aspects of Howl's Moving Castle that makes it such a joy to read is its cozy and comforting vibes. There’s plenty of action to keep us turning the pages, but there’s an unmistakably fun and warm feeling to the story. It's the perfect book to curl up with on a rainy day or to escape into when you need a pick-me-up. It’s my go-to when I need to get out of a reading slump.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I give this one 5/5 stars.

Overall, Howl's Moving Castle is a delightful read that captures the imagination from beginning to end. With its lovable characters, magical setting, and heartwarming story, it's no wonder that this book has become a beloved classic for readers of all ages. I won’t bother telling you how many times I’ve read this one, but feel free to assume it’s several. Whether you're a fan of fantasy or simply looking for a cozy read to brighten your day, Howl's Moving Castle is always a good choice.

Happy reading!

Previous
Previous

Writing Update: New WIP (+ more query responses)

Next
Next

Writing Tip: 5 Commandments of Scene and Beyond