tiffyofthemonts's review against another edition
4.0
I loved the film, which I think tricked me into liking the book??? Like, I think the book basically functioned as fanfiction for me.
Reading the book was an enjoyable experience mostly because it elaborated on the parts of the film that made absolutely no sense to me (Turniphead, the missing prince). But also there were things in the book that continued to make no sense to me (Lettie v. Lettie, Gaston/Percival/Sulliman/Justin and their relation to one another, the presence of Wales, the idea of Sophie holding onto the curse - is it because she’s got a chip on her shoulder about being the oldest?).
So I guess in terms of clarity, it’s really a draw.
I did like that the book dimensionalized Howl and Sophie more than the film was able to. In the book, Howl is more obnoxious and self absorbed, and Sophie seems more bull-headed but also more clever & capable, which makes them both more interesting as characters. And the romance came slightly less out of left field in the book - but not by much if I’m being honest.
Dunno. I wonder if the high rating on this book is mostly due to people having been primed by the film first?
I might have to try rereading this. Maybe DWJ is like MWT for me and I just have to read a couple times to recognize the brilliance of her subtle details.
(Hayao Miyazaki clearly recognized the brilliance of her subtle details. I’m still obsessed with the way he illustrated Sophie’s age shifting throughout the film.)
Reading the book was an enjoyable experience mostly because it elaborated on the parts of the film that made absolutely no sense to me (Turniphead, the missing prince). But also there were things in the book that continued to make no sense to me (Lettie v. Lettie, Gaston/Percival/Sulliman/Justin and their relation to one another, the presence of Wales, the idea of Sophie holding onto the curse - is it because she’s got a chip on her shoulder about being the oldest?).
So I guess in terms of clarity, it’s really a draw.
I did like that the book dimensionalized Howl and Sophie more than the film was able to. In the book, Howl is more obnoxious and self absorbed, and Sophie seems more bull-headed but also more clever & capable, which makes them both more interesting as characters. And the romance came slightly less out of left field in the book - but not by much if I’m being honest.
Dunno. I wonder if the high rating on this book is mostly due to people having been primed by the film first?
I might have to try rereading this. Maybe DWJ is like MWT for me and I just have to read a couple times to recognize the brilliance of her subtle details.
(Hayao Miyazaki clearly recognized the brilliance of her subtle details. I’m still obsessed with the way he illustrated Sophie’s age shifting throughout the film.)
heatherhira's review against another edition
5.0
I didn't have a strong connection with the film before reading this book, and mostly remembered the high level details (moving castle, curse, fire demon, etc).
I really enjoyed this book! It is rather distinct from the film and enjoyed getting to know the characters, especially in how flawed they each are. I also expected this to be more a straightforward fairytale and the tone is actually almost sardonic at times, with a subtle level of humor I found endearing. I will say I had to re-read the end, because I was confused about what was happening and in truth, I'm not sure I can say everything in the plot made sense. Overall though, I devoured this story, and stayed up way too late trying to finish, so I think that rather speaks for itself.
I really enjoyed this book! It is rather distinct from the film and enjoyed getting to know the characters, especially in how flawed they each are. I also expected this to be more a straightforward fairytale and the tone is actually almost sardonic at times, with a subtle level of humor I found endearing. I will say I had to re-read the end, because I was confused about what was happening and in truth, I'm not sure I can say everything in the plot made sense. Overall though, I devoured this story, and stayed up way too late trying to finish, so I think that rather speaks for itself.
garciaga's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
leenakhashab's review against another edition
5.0
Ahh yes, one of the seemingly few physical books I've read this year. As an avid fan of this movie, I've had this book on my shelf for a little over a year and knew I wanted to read it before the summer came to an end, and read it I did :) what can I say, I adore magical realism books and adore this book I did. I don't know what to say besides 1) these characters are so loveable (I love the dynamic of Michael being older in the book, it's fun to see him with Sophie's sister) 2) i dont know how it's even possible, but I feel like Howl loves Sophie even more in the novel than the movie and 3) I will be naming my future cat Calcifer ♥️ okay, go read this book!
vhaalentine's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
ectobunny's review against another edition
4.0
I loved the fantastical elements of this book. The characters and dialogue are very charming. It was also interesting to pick out the differences between the book and the movie. A great read overall!
joannaclement's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
dustyafox's review against another edition
5.0
Lovely, cozy, and heartwarming
This is a captivating story. I enjoyed every minute with these great characters. If you enjoy whimsical stories a with a little bit of romance, give this book a try!
This is a captivating story. I enjoyed every minute with these great characters. If you enjoy whimsical stories a with a little bit of romance, give this book a try!
washurbumbum's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0