10 brilliant books for Studio Ghibli fans

When The Bookseller announced my middle-grade novel Kamizen: Fortress of Lost Memories with the headline ​“Scholastic scoops Dobson’s Ghibli-esque debut”, I was ecstatic. Known globally for its beautiful, hand-drawn animation and captivating stories, Studio Ghibli’s library holds something for the whole family. 

Here are my recommendations for stories with a Ghibli-vibe. 

Whether it’s ramen in Ponyo, one-pot udon in Whisper of the Heart or a simple bento in My Neighbour Totoro, Ghibli films should never be watched on an empty stomach. Dim Sum Palace is a picture book ode to childhood memories of feasting. With artwork reminiscent of Isao Takahata (cofounder of Ghibli), the story is about Liddy’s dreamy encounter with the titular restaurant and lavish spread cooked in its kitchen. (Ages 3–6) 

Written by one of Japan’s most successful children’s authors, and enchantingly translated, this book inspired Spirited Away. A young girl called Lina is sent to the mountains for the summer, but while on her way she slips into a hidden world instead, populated with delightfully curious characters. Turn the pages slowly and enjoy the marvels of Absurd Avenue. (Age 8+) 

Apprentice witch Eva Evergreen is sent to the town of Auteri where she has one chance to prove her witching skills by defending the people against a devastating storm. The problem is she’s only semi-magical. Using her wits and pinch of magic, she sets about repairing the lives of the townsfolk instead. Funny, pacy and cosy, with Japanese elements inspiring the world-building: perfect for fans of Kiki’s Delivery Service. (Ages 8–12)

Anzu is adrift and doesn’t feel like she belongs in her new town. During the festival of Obon, she accidentally enters the Shinto underworld. There, she must free the trapped spirits of lost children and escape the realm before sunrise. Steeped in a blend of Shinto and Buddhist lore, with a host of mythical characters, this graphic novel unfolds with electrifying speed and action and gives authentic representation to a girl struggling with accepting her heritage. (8+) 

A talking cat, mysterious train, courageous heroine, spectres and monsters aplenty: these are the ingredients of a Ghibli smash hit and they also feature in this sumptuously-illustrated graphic novel that reminded me of Spirited Away, but the authors have put their unique stamp on it. The dream-stained artwork and rollercoaster story about a girl plunged into Nocturna (a realm where dreams and nightmares are born) will have readers captivated and wanting more. (Ages 8–12)

This book will be published on 13 August 2026. 

This anthology retells eighteen folk and mythical stories predominantly from Chinese, Japanese and Korean sources. Ghibli films often draw on ancient lore and this book covers with admirable clarity and brevity a number of famous legends children from East Asian families grow up hearing about. Ideal for young, aspiring writers seeking inspiration. (9+) 

Blending the charm of The Secret World of Arietty with the historical drama of The Wind Rises, the Little People in this story depend on their Human family to provide them a nightly glass of milk. But living through the outbreak of war, both Little People and Humans face challenges and hard choices like never before. Sir Michael Morpurgo said, ​“I love this book” and so do I. (Age 10+) 

This book bursts at the seams with Ghibli regulars: flying ships, floating cities and a brave heroine – woven into a deftly-imagined fantasy world. In Spirited Away there is a scene where Haku is attacked by paper spirits known as shikigami. Ann Sei Lin creates her own version of them, placing the shikigama at the centre of a gripping tale populated with richly-drawn characters. Part of a trilogy. (10+) 

This is the longest book among my recommendations and packs the biggest reward. A truly unique, epic fantasy about Elin who lives among the Toda – aquatic, dragon-like serpents – tamed by humans for use in warfare. When her mother is accused of poisoning the Toda, Elin flees home and embarks on a coming-of-age journey that eventually settles her at a sanctuary for Royal Beasts where her talents flourish. Ideal for fans of Princess Mononoke and Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind. (12+) 

Miuko’s skin is slowly turning blue: the sure sign of a curse. To stop herself transforming into a demon, she sets off on a precarious journey to find a cure, racing across landscapes packed with vengeful spirits and tricksters. At every turn she must resist not only the enticing voice within but also taunts of the doro yagra: the demon prince, who wants her to yield to the dark side. The Japanese-infused setting, supernatural lore and author-invented language of the Awaran people will make readers feel like they’re wrapped inside a Ghibli fantasy. (Age 13+) 

Kamizen: Fortress of Lost Memories by William Yamaguchi Dobson is out now.