Our Top Five Miyazaki Films and ‘The Boy and the Heron’

First published in 1937, 'How Do You Live? ' by Genzaburō Yoshino is a Japanese classic that follows the life of 15-year-old Copper after the death of his father. The book alternates between Copper's narrative and letters from his uncle, which offer advice and life lessons on various subjects such as humanism, class, and societal hierarchies. It serves as a thought-provoking guide for young readers, encouraging them to think independently, speak the truth, and understand the interconnectedness of people. The book is set against the backdrop of pre-war Japan and explores themes of bravery, cowardice, and finding one's identity.

In the magical land of Ingary, 18-year-old Sophie Hatter, the eldest of three sisters, is cursed by the Witch of the Waste and transformed into an old crone. Sophie leaves her family's hat shop and finds work as a cleaning lady for the wizard Howl, who lives in a magical moving castle. She forms a bargain with Howl's fire demon, Calcifer, to break the contract between Howl and Calcifer in exchange for returning her to her youthful form. Along the way, Sophie navigates Howl's complex personality, the Witch of the Waste's dark curse, and the intricacies of magic and love in a world where fairytale tropes are a part of everyday life.