This one is an utter classic. Purposely inverting the conventions of most fairy tales, it follows the adventures of shy, mousy eldest daughter Sophie Hatter, who finds herself the recipient of a nasty curse from the Witch of the Waste; she becomes a 90 year old woman, and in desperation she seeks out the help of the wizard Howl, despite his reputation for eating the hearts of young women. Upon happening on his castle, Sophie finds herself agreeing to a bet with Howl's fire-demon, Calcifer, and sets herself up as Howl's housekeeper. What ensues is a wonderfully hilarious adventure as Howl turns out to be not at all what his reputation makes him out to be, and Sophie discovers that really nothing at all is what it seems to be on the outside.

This is a favourite of mine from childhood, and it still holds a special place in my heart. The writing is wonderful, full of wit and humour, the land of Ingary is vivid, and the characters are all unforgettable. Truly, one of those books that all kids should read, and the adults too!

Dianna Wynne Jones is a master at storytelling. Her ideas, themes and characters are enriched with all the elements of a perfect, classic story and are very in touch and aspiring. Howl's Moving Castle is suitable for all ages, particulary around the pre-teen age. I would highly recommend this book, so say "Hi" to Howl for me!

I was surprised to learn that the animated film by Hayao Miyazaki was based on this book. The movie is great, and the book is great also. Having seen the film first, it was at first disorienting when the book moves away from the script, but it was fun spotting the places where the plot(and sometimes even whole characters) had been moved or changed for the screen play.

It's a good read, a fun story and would be nice to read out loud to my daughter when she's old enough.

This fantastic tale of witchcraft and wizardry is perhaps the best I have ever read. The plot is intricate and so are the characters. This fantastically written book follows the story of a young girl named Sophie as she is put under an evil curse by the Witch of the Waste, the most feared woman in all the land. Quickly she flees town and comes into contact with a moving castle, a fire demon named Calcifer, Michael the wizards apprentice and the wizard himself; Devious and infamous Howl. Known for eating the hearts of young girls. This brilliant story follows the adventures of Sophie as she fights the curse that has been put on her and the other forces that are against her. Fantastic read.

Definitely better than the film! Although the film was great.. Howl's Moving Castle is a wonderful book for both children and adults. Every time I read it I'm transported and entranced.

Diana Wynne Jones is my all time favourite fantasy author. And this book is a masterpiece. Unlike many of her others, this book is very easy to get into, and resolves itself without too much confusion. Worth reading, both for adults, and for children.

A great read.
Howl's character is very likeable, well i think so anyway.
a classic that everyone should read.
I still don't know which i like better though, the book or the movie?
The movie is much less complicated than the book is, to be honest the book and movie are two
different storylines with the same base.
If you have watched the movie you should have even more reason to read the book.

A very light but highly entertaining read. The banter between Sophie and Howl is particularly delightful. Highly recommended for fans of the movie.

Howl's Moving Castle is the best book Diana Wynne Jones has ever written - Howl and Calcifer are utterly enchanting characters, and Sophie's nosiness is very refreshing. Old Sophie is a brilliant character that brings the book to life, with her rudeness and subtle love for Howl. This book, in fine Jones tradition, makes more sense every time you read it, so I was perfectly happy to read it over and over again. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes the english language.

This book is very original in its plot line and the author's approach towards story telling. The writing format is very unique and effective and the story just pulls you in. I am not the most efficient reader but I was literally unable to put this book down! For all those who enjoyed the animated film that was made based on this book, it's a definite read. The movie and the book are quite different but both just as wonderful. The ending is a little anti-climactic but nothing should keep you from buying this book and reading it over and over!!!