Howl’s Moving Castle is a romance fantasy novel full of heart, comedy, and magic. After Sophie Hatter is cursed to become an old woman by the notorious Witch of the Waste, she seeks the beguiling wizard Howl Pendragon on her quest to undo the spell. Along the way, she meets many colorful characters, like the fire demon Calficer, and additionally finds love. The unique settings, interesting magic system, and natural romantic progression throughout the story make Howl’s Moving Castle a truly enthralling read.

Howl’s Moving Castle was adapted into an animated film by Studio Ghibli and has been named an ALA Notable Book, a Boston Horn-Book Honor Book, an ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults, and more. Howl’s Moving Castle’s overall story and characters reach satisfying conclusions, and I don’t think upon rereading it loses any humor or charm.

Reviews by: Hannah H.

Hannah is a 15-year-old sophomore at The Archer School for Girls. She enjoys graphic novels and comics the most because they encompass her love of visual arts and reading.

—Ruth Chung, Young Adult Librarian, Westwood Branch Library