10 Books to Read if You Love Studio Ghibli Movies (or Adventures!)

If you've ever been completely immersed in the worlds of Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, My Neighbor Totoro, or Ponyo, you know that Studio Ghibli films have a magic of their own. Their stories go beyond the fantastical: they speak of coming of age, loss, kindness, courage, emotional bonds, and discoveries, all with a visual and emotional beauty that stays with us for a long time.

But what happens after the credits roll? How to continue in that gentle state of enchantment that only Ghibli provides? The good news is that some books manage to reproduce this same atmosphere: fantastic worlds, sensitive protagonists, human dilemmas, and a subtle and touching sense of wonder.

The following list brings together stories that seem to have come directly from a Studio Ghibli storyboard. These narratives blend fantasy and reality with a unique sensibility. If you're looking for more stories that touch the heart with delicacy, here is an excellent starting point.

A Far Wilder Magic

Author: Allison Saft

Margaret Welty lives reclusively in a forgotten town, awaiting the return of her alchemist mother. When the legendary Hala (the feared and revered magical creature) reappears, she sees the opportunity to gain prestige by hunting it. But for that, she needs the help of Wes Winters, an aspiring alchemist seeking acceptance.

Amidst dark forests, religious tensions, and a deadly competition, the two young people confront their pasts, build a delicate relationship, and challenge fate. The gothic and contemplative setting is reminiscent of the introspective and visceral moments of Castle in the Sky.

What Are You Looking For is in the Library

Author: Michiko Aoyama

In this collection of intertwined stories, we follow ordinary people who go through moments of doubt, transition, or sadness. Each of them ends up crossing paths with an eccentric and charming librarian who recommends very specific and deeply transformative books!

Through reading, these characters rediscover old desires, gain the courage to change their lives, and see new paths. A celebration of the power of literature, with the same everyday tenderness as Whisper of the Heart.

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea

Author: Axie Oh

Mina lives in a village plagued by storms caused by a sleeping sea god. When her brother is about to be sacrificed to calm the spirit, she takes his place and dives into the sea, entering a magical underwater world filled with gods and spirits.

In this hidden realm, she must unravel an ancient curse and restore the balance between worlds. Korean mythology merges with a rich emotional and visual journey.

Dallergut Dream Department Store

Author: Miye Lee

There is a store that sells dreams (literally!).

In the world of dreams, the Dallergut store serves human customers and dreamlike creatures, offering everything from mild nightmares to personalized daydreams. The story follows young Penny, a new employee, as she discovers the secrets of the place and learns the importance of the desires and fears that live within each of us.

With overflowing creativity, humor, and a constant lightness, the book recalls the enchantment of many Ghibli films!

A Winter’s Promise

Author: Christelle Dabos

Ophelia is a young woman with two peculiar gifts: she can read the past of objects by touch and walk through mirrors. When she is promised in marriage to a noble from a cold and political land, she finds herself thrown into a world of conspiracies, magical classes, and dangerous secrets.

The universe, fragmented into floating arks, is rich and elaborate, with mysterious characters and a constant sense of discovery.

The Bear and the Nightingale

Author: Katherine Arden

Set in northern Russia, the book mixes Slavic folklore with a captivating narrative. Vasya is a girl who sees ancient spirits: forest creatures, house protectors, forgotten gods.

As Christianity begins to take hold of the village, these entities are forgotten, and a dark force awakens. Vasya must decide between following the expected path for a young woman or embracing her magical destiny. An enchanting and dark story, with the same mythological and visceral touch as Princess Mononoke.

Lonely Castle in the Mirror

Author: Mizuki Tsujimura

Kokoro is a teenager who suffers from bullying and refuses to go to school. One day, the mirror in her room begins to glow and takes her to an isolated castle where she meets other children with similar stories. Together, they must unravel the secret of the place and understand why they were chosen.

A sensitive narrative about pain, connection, and empathy, along with magical construction.

Water Moon

Author: Samantha Sotto Yambao

In a small town where reality blends with the supernatural, characters deal with grief, secrets, and unresolved loves. The story revolves around a man who returns to the place where he lost the great love of his life and a young woman seeking answers about her own past. As their stories intersect, fantastic elements begin to emerge, revealing spiritual and ancestral connections.

A poetic narrative where time and affection flow like a river.

Eva Evergreen, Semi-Magical Witch

Author: Julie Abe

Eva has a big heart but only a little magic, just enough to cause accidents. To prove that she can become an official witch, she needs to spend a month alone helping a coastal village. There, she faces natural disasters, magical creatures, and the challenge of accepting who she is, even without spectacular powers.

A sweet adventure with lessons of courage, friendship, and empathy. Ideal for those charmed by Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Nura and the Immortal Palace

Author: M.T. Khan

Nura is a 12-year-old Muslim girl who works illegally in a mine to help her family. During an accident, she falls into a mysterious lake and awakens in a palace ruled by djinns, magical beings living between luxury and oppression. Nura must find a way back but also discovers the importance of fighting for justice, faith, and freedom.

A powerful fantasy with lush setting and delicate social critique, reminiscent of the coming-of-age journeys in Ponyo and Laputa.

Studio Ghibli movies show us that it doesn't take much action to live a great adventure; it just takes seeing the world with enchanted eyes. All the books on this list carry that same spirit: the magic isn't just in spells or fantastic beings, but also in silent courage, the delicacy of gestures, and the power of the simplest emotions.

If you love the Ghibli universe, it's also worth checking out Howl’s Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones, which inspired the film of the same name. Another reading that carries this essence is the novelization of Spirited Away, as well as works by authors like Studio Ghibli Collection and Hayao Miyazaki.

Also, be sure to check out our article on Studio Ghibli movies in chronological order release!

So, which of these stories caught your attention the most? What other books have you read that also remind you of Studio Ghibli movies? Tell us in the comments!