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54 pages 1 hour read

Castle in the Air

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1990

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Book Brief

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Diana Wynne Jones

Castle in the Air

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1990
Book Details
Pages

298

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Strangia • Fairytale World

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10+ years

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Super Short Summary

Diana Wynne Jones' Castle in the Air follows the adventures of a young carpet-seller named Abdullah, who dreams of a different life. When he acquires a magical carpet, he is whisked away on a journey filled with enchantment, danger, and the pursuit of love. This tale intertwines fate and fantasy in a richly imagined world.

Adventurous

Fantastical

Humorous

Mysterious

Playful

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones is a captivating fantasy novel that received praise for its imaginative world-building and engaging plot. Reviewers appreciated the witty, humorous writing and memorable characters. Some criticism pointed to a slower pace in parts, but overall, it successfully entertains with its charm and creativity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Castle in the Air?

A reader who would enjoy Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones likely appreciates whimsical fantasy with intricate plots and rich world-building. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series and Neil Gaiman’s Stardust will find delight in its imaginative narrative and magical adventures.

Character List

Abdullah

A daydreaming young man on a quest to pursue his dreams and find happiness, facing larger-than-life challenges and powerful entities throughout his journey.

Abdullah's love interest who challenges fairytale princess stereotypes and plays a crucial role in motivating his quest, showing strength and intelligence.

A mysterious companion to Abdullah with his own goals and motivations, revealed to be more than he initially seems.

A cat accompanying Abdullah, later revealed to be the protagonist from a previous story, with her own objectives and a strong will.

Sophie’s baby, initially appearing as a kitten, contributing humor to the narrative through his transformation into a human.

The main antagonist, an imposing djinn who manipulates events and poses significant challenges for Abdullah, working under his brother’s direction.

A powerful yet trapped spirit who aids Abdullah with complex motivations, eventually revealed to be a well-known character from an earlier tale.

A magical item aiding Abdullah, known later to be a familiar character with its own personality and desires.

Abdullah’s loyal friend from his homeland, providing comedic relief and practical support, with a dog that comically insists on expressing gratitude.

An antagonist revealed later in the story, presenting a more nuanced threat through manipulation and self-centeredness.

A group of kidnapped royal figures who contribute actively to the story’s resolution, defying traditional damsel-in-distress roles.

Characters linking the narrative to past stories and pivotal in crucial plot developments later in the book.

Villains who play a strategic role in manifesting challenges for Abdullah, later revealed to be part of a greater design.

A secondary villain using his power to impose threats upon Abdullah, highlighting themes of control and personal freedom.

Minor antagonists presenting domestic challenges that mirror broader conflicts, seeking to manipulate Abdullah for their own benefit.

Book Details
Pages

298

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Strangia • Fairytale World

Publication Year

1990

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10+ years

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