If you’ve ever found yourself wanting to return to the enchanting world of ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ you’re not alone. Diana Wynne Jones’ captivating tale has left an enduring mark on readers worldwide. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce you to 11 enchanting books like Howl’s Moving Castle that capture the same sense of wonder, adventure, and heart that makes ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ so special.
These carefully chosen novels promise to take you on emotional journeys, introduce you to unforgettable characters, and reignite your passion for the magic of fantasy literature. So, join us as we dive into these literary treasures and let the enchantment of storytelling sweep you off your feet all over again
Books like Howl’s Moving Castle
Inkheart series (2003)
by Cornelia Funke
The ‘Inkheart’ series by Cornelia Funke is a captivating fantasy adventure trilogy that revolves around the magical power of storytelling, just like ‘Howl’s Moving Castle.’
In the first book, ‘Inkheart,’ we meet twelve-year-old Meggie Folchart and her father, Mo, a gifted “Silvertongue” capable of bringing characters from books into the real world when reading aloud. Unfortunately, Mo accidentally releases a villain and other dark characters from the book ‘Inkheart,’ while Meggie’s mother, Resa, gets trapped inside the book.
The subsequent books, ‘Inkspell’ and ‘Inkdeath,’ follow Meggie and her friends as they journey through the magical worlds of books and grapple with the consequences of Mo’s unique gift. They encounter new allies and foes, face perilous challenges, and must confront the malevolent Inkheart characters seeking to alter their own destinies.
Throughout the series, themes of the power of words, the boundaries between reality and fiction, and the importance of family and friendship are intricately woven into the rich tapestry of the narrative.
Total Pages– 563 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.91
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 18 hours and 46 minutes to finish Inkheart by Cornelia Funke.
Half a Soul (2020)
by Olivia Atwater
Like in ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ where Howl is a powerful and enigmatic wizard, in ‘Half a Soul,’ the protagonist, Dora, has the unusual power of being able to see and communicate with magical creatures.
The delightful fantasy romance novel set in the Regency era with a magical twist. The story follows Miss Caroline Hargreaves, a young woman born with half a soul due to a magical mishap. This peculiar condition makes her unable to experience strong emotions or comprehend romantic love.
In an attempt to remedy her situation, Caroline enlists the help of a young sorcerer, Mr. Nicholas Fairfax. However, he comes with his own set of problems, including a tragic past and a curse that prevents him from using magic. Despite their differences, they embark on a journey to restore Caroline’s missing half of the soul.
As they work together to solve the magical puzzle, their relationship deepens, and they discover an unexpected connection.
Total Pages– 304 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.13
Amazon Rating– 4.5
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 10 hours and 8 minutes to finish Half a Soul by Olivia Atwater.
Stardust (1997)
by Neil Gaiman
If you liked ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ you’ll love this one. Set in the English countryside and the enchanting realm of Faerie, the story follows Tristan Thorn, a young man who ventures into the magical land beyond the village of Wall to retrieve a fallen star as a token of love for his beloved, Victoria Forester. Unbeknownst to Tristan, the star has taken the form of a celestial being named Yvaine.
During his quest, Tristan encounters various fantastical creatures and adversaries, including a group of witches seeking the star’s heart to regain their youth and power. As he and Yvaine journey together, they form an unexpected bond, discovering the true value of love, sacrifice, and the magic that exists within their own hearts.
Between treacherous adventures, heartfelt moments, and mesmerizing landscapes, Tristan must navigate through the dangers of Faerie and confront his own identity and desires.
Both novels explore the idea that love can be a transformative and powerful force.
Total Pages– 248 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.10
Amazon Rating– 4.5
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 8 hours and 16 minutes to finish Stardust by Neil Gaiman.
Uprooted (2015)
by Naomi Novik
‘Uprooted’ is the story of Agnieszka, a young village girl living in the shadow of an ancient and mysterious wood known as the Wood. The Wood is corrupted and filled with malevolent magic, and every ten years, it demands a young girl as tribute.
When the time comes for the village’s choosing, Agnieszka’s dearest friend, Kasia, is expected to be picked, but to everyone’s surprise, Agnieszka is chosen instead. Taken by the enigmatic and powerful Dragon, the reclusive wizard who protects their valley, she is thrust into a world of magic and danger.
As Agnieszka learns under the Dragon’s tutelage, she discovers that she possesses her own untamed magical abilities. Together, they face the malevolence of the Wood, which threatens not only their valley but the entire kingdom. Amidst political intrigues and ancient rivalries, Agnieszka must embrace her newfound powers and unravel the secrets of the Wood to save her home and those she loves.
Throughout the journey, Agnieszka’s strength, courage, and determination shine, and she becomes entwined with the fate of the land in ways she could never have imagined, proving that even the most unexpected heroines can rise to face darkness and protect the light.
Total Pages– 438 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.04
Amazon Rating– 4.5
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 14 hours and 36 minutes to finish Uprooted by Naomi Novik.
The House in the Cerulean Sea (2020)
by Tj Klune
Linus Baker, a quiet and rule-abiding caseworker, is assigned a top-secret government job to inspect an orphanage on a remote island. The orphanage is run by Arthur Parnassus, an enigmatic and charismatic man, and houses six extraordinary, but potentially dangerous, magical children.
As Linus spends time at the orphanage, he discovers a loving and nurturing environment that challenges his preconceived notions about magical beings. He forms a bond with the children, especially with the fiercely protected and misunderstood Lucy, a powerful sprite. Linus’s interactions with the children and his growing affection for Arthur lead him to question the unfair prejudice and discrimination faced by magical creatures in society.
Amid bureaucratic turmoil and looming threats, Linus must make difficult choices to protect the children he’s come to care for. Through kindness, compassion, and acceptance, ‘The House in the Cerulean Sea’ celebrates the importance of found family, embracing differences, and standing up against injustice in a whimsical and touching tale of love, friendship, and belonging.
These two novels may have distinct storytelling styles and settings, but they share common themes centered on the magic within the ordinary, personal transformation, and the enduring messages of love and acceptance.
Total Pages– 394 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.42
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 13 hours and 8 minutes to finish The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune.
The Ocean at the End of the Lane (2013)
by Neil Gaiman
Featuring a young protagonist who finds himself drawn into fantastical adventures and addressing a coming-of-age theme, much so like ‘Sophie’ in ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ this book will become your next favourite.
‘The Ocean at the End of the Lane’ is an atmospheric fantasy novel that follows an unnamed young man as he revisits his childhood memories.
The story begins when the man returns to his childhood hometown for a funeral. He finds himself drawn to the farm at the end of the lane, where he once lived. Memories flood back, and he recalls a series of extraordinary events from his past. As a seven-year-old boy, he befriends Lettie Hempstock, an enigmatic girl who claims that the pond behind her farmhouse is an ocean.
As the story unfolds, the protagonist is drawn into a series of supernatural occurrences and adventures. After a tragic incident, a malevolent supernatural entity is unleashed into the world, threatening the boy’s life and reality itself. With the help of Lettie and her family, who possess ancient and magical abilities, the boy embarks on a perilous journey to confront the malevolence and protect those he loves.
Total Pages– 195 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.02
Amazon Rating– 4.4
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 6 hours and 30 minutes to finish The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman.
A Winter’s Promise (2013)
by Christelle Dabos
Set in a fantastical world called the Ark, the story follows Ophelia, a young woman gifted with the ability to read objects’ histories by touching them. In this society, powerful families reside on floating celestial islands and wield unique talents.
Ophelia, an introverted and bookish girl, is unexpectedly betrothed to Thorn, a brooding and enigmatic member of the Dragon clan living on the distant icy Pole. Leaving her family behind, Ophelia embarks on her new life in the unfamiliar and politically treacherous environment of the Pole.
As she navigates court intrigue and manipulative characters, Ophelia becomes entangled in a dangerous game where everyone seems to have their hidden agendas. Her quiet strength and remarkable ability to uncover secrets make her a valuable asset in this high-stakes world of alliances and deception.
As Ophelia discovers her true potential and courage, she must unravel the mysteries surrounding her new home and the enigmatic Thorn. In a world of shifting loyalties and deceit, she must learn to trust her instincts and embrace her destiny to protect herself and those she loves from the looming threats that surround her.
‘A Winter’s Promise’ is the first book in the ‘The Mirror Visitor Quartet’ series. So, if you love to read series to enjoy a bigger plot, this one’s for you.
Total Pages– 446 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.05
Amazon Rating– 4.4
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 14 hours and 52 minutes to finish A Winter’s Promise by Christelle Dabos.
A Wrinkle in Time (1962)
by Madeleine L’Engle
First things first, this book has been made into a Disney movie. So, if you’re a fan of Disney movies like me, you should watch the movie TODAY!
‘A Wrinkle in Time’ follows the story of Meg Murry, a young and intelligent but socially awkward girl, and her younger brother, Charles Wallace. Their father, a renowned scientist, has gone missing while conducting secret government work related to time travel.
One stormy night, Meg, Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin are visited by three mysterious beings: Mrs. Whatsit, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Which. These three eccentric women reveal that Meg’s father is trapped by the darkness of an evil force called “The Black Thing” on a distant planet called Camazotz. They embark on a cosmic journey to rescue him.
Their adventures lead them through “tesseracts,” which are wrinkles in time and space, enabling instantaneous travel across vast distances. As they travel to different planets, they encounter various challenges and witness the battle between good and evil forces.
Throughout their quest, Meg learns the importance of embracing her flaws and using her love and compassion to overcome darkness. She discovers her unique abilities and inner strength, crucial in confronting the malevolent being known as “IT” on Camazotz.
For all science and astronomy buffs out there, who also enjoy a magical touch to their reads, you should definitely check this one out.
Total Pages– 211 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.98
Amazon Rating– 4.4
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 7 hours and 2 minutes to finish A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle.
The Girl who Drank the Moon (2016)
by Kelly Barnhill
Luna is a young girl born in a mysterious village surrounded by a dangerous forest, who is sure to remind you of ‘Sophie’ from ‘Howl’s Moving Caste.’
The villagers believe that sacrificing a baby to the malevolent witch in the forest will protect their community from harm. However, the witch Xan is not evil; she rescues these infants and takes them to loving families in a safer land.
One day, Xan accidentally feeds Luna moonlight instead of the usual starlight, granting her magical powers. Realizing she can’t raise Luna in the forest, Xan decides to raise her as her own. Luna grows up under Xan’s care, along with her magical, small, and humorous companion, a Perfectly Tiny Dragon.
As Luna approaches her 13th birthday, her powers begin to emerge uncontrollably, creating chaos in the forest. In a quest to understand herself and her abilities, Luna befriends a young man named Antain, whose path intertwines with the secrets of her past.
Throughout the story, dark secrets, misunderstandings, and deep connections are unveiled, leading to a thrilling and heartwarming adventure that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of truth. ‘The Girl Who Drank the Moon’ is a beautifully written tale that celebrates the magic of friendship and the strength that lies within even the youngest of hearts.
Total Pages– 388 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.12
Amazon Rating– 4.7
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 12 hours and 56 minutes to finish The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill.
The Night Circus (2011)
by Erin Morgenstern
In ‘Howl’s Moving Castle,’ we are introduced to a magical moving castle owned by the eccentric wizard Howl, which roams through different lands. In ‘The Night Circus,’ the story revolves around a mysterious, fantastical circus that only operates at night, captivating visitors with its enchanting displays and performances. Both novels also feature strong, independent female protagonists – Celia Bowen in ‘The Night Circus’ and Sophie Hatter in ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ – who find themselves entangled in intricate webs of magic and destiny. If these elements of the book by Diana Wynne Jones are what you loved the most, ‘The Night Circus’ is a must-read for you.
A mesmerizing tale of enchantment and love set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the story revolves around a mysterious and magical circus that appears only at night, known as Le Cirque des Rêves, or the Circus of Dreams.
The circus is the stage for a high-stakes competition between two young magicians, Celia Bowen and Marco Alisdair. Unbeknownst to them, they have been bound since childhood to engage in a duel of magical prowess, and the circus serves as the venue for their contest.
As the circus travels across the world, it becomes a captivating spectacle filled with wondrous and surreal attractions, from a garden of ice to a labyrinth of clouds. The circus’s loyal followers, known as “rêveurs,” become deeply enthralled by its enchanting allure.
However, as Celia and Marco’s magical feats intensify, they begin to fall in love, unaware that only one can be left standing at the end of the competition. Their love creates unforeseen consequences, and the fate of the circus, its performers, and the lives of those connected to it hang in the balance.
Total Pages– 400 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.02
Amazon Rating– 4.4
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 13 hours and 20 minutes to finish The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.
The Last Unicorn (1968)
by Peter S. Beagle
‘The Last Unicorn,’ as the name suggests, follows a beautiful and immortal unicorn who believes she is the last of her kind. Troubled by this thought, she sets out on a quest to discover if other unicorns still exist in the world. Along the way, she encounters various characters, including a hapless magician named Schmendrick and a brave, yet conflicted, woman named Molly Grue.
The unicorn’s journey leads her to the dark castle of King Haggard, a cruel ruler who seeks to capture all the world’s unicorns for his own desires. In this treacherous place, she also discovers that her true identity has been concealed by a spell, making her appear to others as a plain young woman named Lady Amalthea.
As Lady Amalthea, the unicorn begins to experience the complexities of human emotions and learns about love, loss, and sacrifice. With the help of Schmendrick and Molly, she faces challenges and dangers in her mission to save her fellow unicorns from King Haggard’s grasp.
‘The Last Unicorn’ has become a beloved classic, enchanting readers with its lyrical prose and timeless exploration of the human spirit and the pursuit of true self-discovery. The book’s magical writing and plot will remind you of ‘Howl’s Moving Castle.’
Total Pages– 294 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.18
Amazon Rating– 4.7
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 9 hours and 48 minutes to finish The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle.
Conclusion to Books like Howl’s Moving Castle
And that concludes the list for books like Howl’s Moving Castle!
The captivating tales in the above list are filled with whimsy, charm, and unforgettable characters, and are just what you need if you loved reading ‘Howl’s Moving Castle.’ So, grab a book, cozy up, and let your imagination soar to new and fantastical worlds. Happy reading!
However, if you want even more books like Howl’s Moving Castle, you should consider-
- Spindle’s End, Beauty, Sunshine, and Shadows by Robin McKinley.
- Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia C. Wrede
- The Crescent Spell by Zoe Abrams
- The Shop Before Life by Neil Hughes
- Darkwood by Gabby Hutchinson Crouch
- Sourdough by Robin Sloan
- The Black Veins by Ashia Monet
- Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
- Lolly Willowes by Sylvia Townsend Warner
- The Secret of Platform 13 by Eva Ibbotson
- Jonathan Strange and Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke
- The Queen’s Thief series by Megan Whalen Turner
- An Enchantment of Ravens by Margaret Rogerson
- Spindle by W.R. Gingell
- The Winter’s Night trilogy by Katherine Arden
- Dealing With Dragons by Patricia Wrede
- The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
- Legends and Lattes by Travis Baldree
- Emily Wilde’s Encyclopedia by Heather Fawcett
- Tinker by Wen Spencer
- Throne of Glass series by Sarah J Maas
- In The Forests of Serre by Patricia A. McKillip
- The Library at Mount Char by Scott Hawkins
- A Green and Ancient Light by Frederic Durbin
- The Book of Lost Things by John Connolly
- The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman