House of Many Ways (2008) is a whimsical and enchanting fantasy novel by Diana Wynne Jones, serving as a loose sequel to Howl’s Moving Castle (1986) and Castle in the Air (1990). The story follows Charmain Baker, a bookish young girl tasked with house-sitting her Great-Uncle William’s magical cottage—which, to her surprise, contains labyrinthine rooms, time-bending corridors, and a mischievous dog-like creature named Waif. When the kingdom faces a crisis involving disappearing royal treasure and dangerous lubbockins, Charmain teams up with the wizard Howl, his fire-demon Calcifer, and apprentice Peter to unravel the mystery. Jones’ signature wit, chaotic magic, and endearing characters make this a delightful standalone adventure set in the same beloved universe.
For fans of House of Many Ways, try:
- Deep Secret (1997) – A multiverse-hopping fantasy with Jones’ trademark humor.
- The Girl Who Drank the Moon (2016) by Kelly Barnhill – A fairy-tale-like story with clever magic and heart.
