Book Review: Witch Hat Atelier

Witch Hat Atelier
By Kamome Shirahama
Review by Mida

Coco has always been obsessed with magic. However, as only witches are able to wield it, she seems destined to watch from afar. But after a tragedy leaves her alone, a wandering witch picks her up and takes her as his student!

This is possibly my favourite series of all time. Witch Hat Atelier is a beautiful story of found family, the search for belonging and the joy of honing a skill that you are truly passionate about. Coco is the perfect focal character; her delight at every strange facet of the hidden world she has discovered seeps out and infects the reader. The other students are equally unique and distinct and the entire series is so character focused that it feels there shouldn’t be space for anything else.

But through some kind of magic of its own, every taste we get of the bizarre and beautiful world that these characters inhabit leaves you wanting more. The art is appropriately whimsical, with fluid and dynamic characters, jaw-dropping backgrounds and mesmerising creatures that will leave you wanting to dive into the wondrous world on the page.

This is the ultimate comfort read. While not without intense moments, this series is heartwarming, cozy and utterly (if you’ll pardon the pun) magical. Perfect for fans of Harry Potter, Frieren and Howls Moving Castle.