We grew up with Howl as our first love—all because Studio Ghibli’s Howl was such a charmingly, sweet wizard. That was what I thought until I decided to give the book a chance. The only reason I picked up the book was because Project Basil (the one I’m currently working on) is a light, cosy fantasy and thought that reading Howl’s Moving Castle would serve as a great study or inspiration.
Often, we’re familiar with books being better than movies and this time, it’s no exception, except that the book and movie are totally different. The feeling of the book ruining one of my favourite Studio Ghibli movies for me was devastating. As soon as I closed the book, I had to sit for an hour processing how the book ruined my beloved Howl’s image in my mind.
Mind you, he was so much more lovable in the book! Though I would heavily warn everyone who wanted to marry him (tell that to my 13-year-old self) to think twice.
A few things I love about the book is how dynamic the characters are. We’re talking about over-the-top dramatic Howl, chasing anyone in a skirt too; a much more temperamental Sophie, and a love-stricken Michael (whom the movie replaced with a young boy named Markl).
And mind you, Howl takes 2 hours in the bathroom getting ready to court the ladies. I can’t—I love this man and hate him at the same time.
Anyways, I will try to make this entire review spoiler-free so I only have something to say: The Witch of the Waste is a much more important villain compared to the movie. Throughout the book, it was shown that the witch actively pursued Howl for reasons that I found to be rather messed up. It got me gasping.
What I did not like about the book:
The chemistry between Howl and Sophie was more friendly than romantic. It was only until the end that they revealed Howl and Sophie liked each other which felt like an abrupt slap. It felt as though they weren’t given room to grow into a romantic relationship because of all the things that were happening. The hint of them liking each other was too faint.
Every other little thing about the book was just as lovable. I’m talking about the magic system, Calcifer, Howl’s tantrum, Sophie’s little magic, and the cosy flower shop. The book also introduced us to important characters that weren’t shown in the movie.
I would love to list all the differences between the movie vs. book but to sum it up:
7 Contrasts Between the Film and Book Versions of 'Howl's Moving Castle' (studybreaks.com)
Yes, Howl is actually a modern-day person like us, and he is from Wales! Sophie on the other hand, has magic! And she was somewhat actually contented being old.
Dianna Wynne Jones wrote so beautifully by breathing life into her dialogues. I have to say, this is the first time I laughed out loud reading a book. Everything she wrote and planned in the story was absolutely hilarious which the Ghibli version did not manage to capture.
I suppose the Ghibli version focused on creating something more soft, magical, and hearty, while the book was just a comedy.
I could go on and on of how much I loved the book except that I would really recommend you to pick it up and read it for yourself.
Rating: 4/5
Days to complete: 3 days
Here are some of my favourite quotes from Howl in the book (also, you can gauge how dramatic he is):
“I feel ill," [Howl] announced. "I'm going to bed, where I may die.”
“Go to bed, you fool," Calcifer said sleepily. "You're drunk."
"Who, me?" said Howl. "I assure you, my friends, I am cone sold stober."“Howl’s voice was presently heard shouting weakly, “Help me, someone! I’m dying from neglect up here!” » he was just sick and in bed rest…
“Howl backed into the door to shut it and leaned there in a tragic attitude. "Look at you all!" he said. "Ruin stares me in the face. I slave all day for you. And not one of you, even Calcifer, can spare time to say hello!"