Lonely Castle in the Mirror

by Mizuki Tsujimura
Lonely Castle in the Mirror cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Contemporary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 414
  • Added: 2025-09-11
  • Updated: 2025-09-11
  • ISBN: 9781473578470
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2021-04-22
  • Formats: 7
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99

In a quiet Tokyo neighborhood, seven middle school students who avoid school due to personal struggles find themselves transported through their bedroom mirrors to a mysterious castle. This castle, filled with winding stairways and watchful portraits, offers them a chance to find a hidden room and have one wish granted, but only if they leave by 5 pm daily or face dire consequences. The story explores themes of anxiety, bullying, and the power of human connection as the teenagers confront their fears and share their stories to save themselves. Translated by Philip Gabriel, the novel blends fairy tale magic with poignant emotional depth, weaving a narrative that highlights empathy, collaboration, and the courage to face painful truths. Praised for its sparse yet powerful language, it offers a mesmerizing tale about reaching out and embracing hope amidst loneliness and hardship, making it a deeply affecting read for anyone touched by sadness or vulnerability.

Reviews
Tony's Reading List · 2024-08-19
thoughtful 4.00

The novel blends fantasy with real-world issues like bullying and school drop-outs, creating a story that balances light and darkness thoughtfully.

This review appreciates the way the novel combines a fantasy setting with contemporary Japanese social themes, such as bullying and school drop-outs, giving the story a grounded emotional core. The reviewer notes the thoughtful handling of darker themes alongside the fantasy elements, which adds complexity and depth to the narrative, making it resonate with readers who appreciate stories that address real-life challenges through imaginative storytelling.

Quick quotes

    A fantasy with a hint of real-world darkness.

    Takes a contemporary Japanese theme, bullying and school drop-outs.

    Balances light and dark themes thoughtfully.

WordPress.com · 2023-11-21
engaging 4.50

The novel is instantly engaging with well-developed characters and delivers on its promise with a captivating blend of fantasy and emotional depth.

The reviewer was drawn in immediately by the story’s promise and found it delivered spectacularly, appreciating how the novel balances fantasy elements with emotional engagement. They highlight the strong character development and the way the narrative keeps readers hooked, suggesting the book is a rewarding read for those who enjoy thoughtful fantasy with meaningful emotional stakes.

Quick quotes

    Lonely Castle in the Mirror sounded like it held promise and it delivers spectacularly.

    The novel is instantly engaging with a good balance of fantasy and emotional depth.

    Strong character development keeps the story captivating throughout.

The Resting Willow · 2022-08-14
profound 4.25

The story is a magical yet profound blend of Japanese culture, fantasy, and Western elements that deeply explores themes of connection and personal growth.

This review highlights how the novel weaves together elements of Japanese culture and tradition with fantasy and Western influences, creating a unique and resonant narrative. The reviewer appreciates the depth behind the magical elements, seeing the story not just as fantasy but as a profound exploration of the human condition and the importance of reaching out and forming connections in a sometimes isolating world.

Quick quotes

    A magical but ultimately profound tale that weaves Japanese culture and tradition, fantasy and Western elements.

    The story deeply explores themes of connection and personal growth.

    It balances cultural richness with universal emotional truths.

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