73 pages • 2 hours read
Howl’s Moving Castle
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Book Brief
448
Novel • Fiction
Ingary • Fantasy World
1986
HarperTrophy
YA
10-14 years
800L
Super Short Summary
Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones follows 18-year-old Sophie Hatter, who, after being cursed by the Witch of the Waste to appear as an old woman, seeks refuge in the magical, ever-moving castle of the enigmatic Wizard Howl. Inside, Sophie encounters Howl’s apprentice, Michael, and the fire demon Calcifer, embarking on an adventure filled with magic, transformation, and self-discovery.
Fantastical
Adventurous
Humorous
Romantic
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
401,542 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones enchants with its imaginative world, compelling characters, and humorous prose. Critics praise its inventive plot and the whimsical nature of the story. Some find its pacing uneven and the resolution a bit abrupt. Overall, it's a delightful fantasy that appeals to both young readers and adults.
Who Should Read Howl’s Moving Castle?
Fans of magical adventures, intricate world-building, and witty, endearing characters will adore Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones. If you enjoy the whimsical charm of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series or the enchanting narratives of C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia, this book is for you.
401,542 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Lettie Hatter
Lettie Hatter
Sophie's beautiful and strong-willed younger sister who pursues education in magic, displaying determination and care for her family.
Martha Hatter
Martha Hatter
The youngest Hatter sister, who is confident and chooses to work in a bakery, aiming to start a family and forge her own path in life.
Howl (Howell Jenkins)
Howl (Howell Jenkins)
A complex wizard known for his mysterious and notorious reputation, who conceals a caring and generous nature beneath his vain and elusive exterior.
Calcifer
Calcifer
A fire demon who powers Howl’s moving castle, maintaining a vital contract with Howl that binds their fates together.
Michael Fisher
Michael Fisher
Howl's loyal 15-year-old apprentice and a kind-hearted young man who is in love with Martha, serving as a friend to Sophie.
The Witch of the Waste/Miss Angorian
The Witch of the Waste/Miss Angorian
The main antagonist, an old and powerful witch with a sinister plan, who seeks to gain control over Ingary and covets magic from Wales.
448
Novel • Fiction
Ingary • Fantasy World
1986
HarperTrophy
YA
10-14 years
800L
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