Cat Chant has always lived in the shadow of his brilliant, headstrong older sister, Gwendolen. She's a powerful witch, prophesied to one day rule the world, and her ambition knows no bounds. When their parents die, the orphaned siblings are sent to Chrestomanci Castle, a place of immense magic overseen by the enigmatic enchanter, Chrestomanci. Gwendolen relishes the opportunities for power and mischief, but Cat, seemingly devoid of any magical talent, feels increasingly out of place and apprehensive. As strange and dangerous magical incidents begin to plague the castle, Cat finds himself in the midst of a hidden conflict. He suspects Gwendolen might be at the heart of the trouble, but the true nature of the magic, identity, and power at play is far more intricate and perilous than he could ever imagine. Cat must navigate a world brimming with enchantment and deception to uncover his own destiny and confront the growing darkness around him.
Critical Reception
"This foundational work by Diana Wynne Jones is celebrated as a witty, imaginative, and deeply influential classic of children's fantasy literature."