House of Many Ways by Diana Wynne Jones

5 stars
R-0
Sequel to Howl's Moving Castle

Charmain is a reader.  In fact, she really does nothing else.

But when Aunt Sempronia bullies talks her mother into Charmain taking care of Uncle William's house, that may change.

Between helping the king with his library, keeping an unexpected apprentice out of trouble, figuring out how to do laundry and cook, and keeping the mysterious dog Waif out of trouble, Charmain isn't sure she's thrilled with what she's gotten herself into.

Then a witch named Sophie shows up to help the king... and soon is followed by a two-year-old, a fire demon and a six-year-old named Twinkle.... or is his name really Howl?

All in all, it's quite the adventure!

I really enjoyed this one!  It's a sequel in the sense that it happens after Howl's Moving Castle, but Sophie and Howl and Calcifer are only minor characters.  The story focuses on Charmain, who's not always likeable... but at least she knows that. ;)

Definitely recommended, but read Howl's Moving Castle first so that things make sense.

:)

Counts for the Support Your Local Library challenge!