Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones is a captivating fantasy novel that received praise for its imaginative world-building and engaging plot. Reviewers appreciated the witty, humorous writing and memorable characters. Some criticism pointed to a slower pace in parts, but overall, it successfully entertains with its charm and creativity.

A reader who would enjoy Castle in the Air by Diana Wynne Jones likely appreciates whimsical fantasy with intricate plots and rich world-building. Fans of J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series and Neil Gaiman’s Stardust will find delight in its imaginative narrative and magical adventures.

Diana Wynne Jones' Castle in the Air follows the adventures of a young carpet-seller named Abdullah, who dreams of a different life. When he acquires a magical carpet, he is whisked away on a journey filled with enchantment, danger, and the pursuit of love. This tale intertwines fate and fantasy in a richly imagined world.

- Castle in the Air is loosely inspired by traditional Arabic folktales and incorporates a magical flying carpet, a common element in stories like 1,001 Nights.
- The book introduces a new geographical location, the Sultanates of Rashpuht, showcasing Diana Wynne Jones's skill at creating rich and diverse fictional worlds distinct yet connected to Ingary from Howl's Moving Castle. 
- Diana Wynne Jones often explores themes of mistaken identity and disguise, which play a significant role in Castle in the Air, adding layers of humor and intrigue to the story.

Adventurous / Fantastical / Humorous / Mysterious / Playful

**Abdullah**  
A daydreaming young man on a quest to pursue his dreams and find happiness, facing larger-than-life challenges and powerful entities throughout his journey.

**Flower-in-the-Night**  
Abdullah's love interest who challenges fairytale princess stereotypes and plays a crucial role in motivating his quest, showing strength and intelligence.

**The Soldier/Prince Justin**  
A mysterious companion to Abdullah with his own goals and motivations, revealed to be more than he initially seems.

**Midnight/Sophie**  
A cat accompanying Abdullah, later revealed to be the protagonist from a previous story, with her own objectives and a strong will.

**Whippersnapper/Morgan**  
Sophie’s baby, initially appearing as a kitten, contributing humor to the narrative through his transformation into a human.

**Hasruel**  
The main antagonist, an imposing djinn who manipulates events and poses significant challenges for Abdullah, working under his brother’s direction.

**The Genie/Howl**  
A powerful yet trapped spirit who aids Abdullah with complex motivations, eventually revealed to be a well-known character from an earlier tale.

**The Flying Carpet/Calcifer**  
A magical item aiding Abdullah, known later to be a familiar character with its own personality and desires.

**Jamal and His Dog**  
Abdullah’s loyal friend from his homeland, providing comedic relief and practical support, with a dog that comically insists on expressing gratitude.

**Dalzel**  
An antagonist revealed later in the story, presenting a more nuanced threat through manipulation and self-centeredness.

**The Princesses**  
A group of kidnapped royal figures who contribute actively to the story’s resolution, defying traditional damsel-in-distress roles.

**Lettie and Wizard Suliman**  
Characters linking the narrative to past stories and pivotal in crucial plot developments later in the book.

**Kabul Aqba and the Bandits**  
Villains who play a strategic role in manifesting challenges for Abdullah, later revealed to be part of a greater design.

**The Sultan**  
A secondary villain using his power to impose threats upon Abdullah, highlighting themes of control and personal freedom.

**Abdullah’s Overbearing Family**  
Minor antagonists presenting domestic challenges that mirror broader conflicts, seeking to manipulate Abdullah for their own benefit.

Diana Wynne Jones

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Castle in the Air reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Castle in the Air | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Castle in the Air and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Castle in the Air

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Castle in the Air?

RecommendedReading Age

Book Details