Review of 'Water Moon'

If Spirited Away ever left you spellbound, Water Moon will sweep you into a dreamlike world of magic, regret, and breathtaking beauty you won’t want to leave.

I had the absolute pleasure of reading Water Moon, and wow—what a stunning, emotional journey. If you’re a fan of Studio Ghibli—especially Spirited Away—this book belongs on your shelf. While Kiki’s Delivery Service is my personal favorite, Water Moon captures the ethereal, bittersweet beauty that defines Ghibli’s storytelling. It’s whimsical, magical, and deeply moving.

Narrative Style, Themes and Imagery

The story centers around Kei and Hana. Hana works in a pawn shop located in another realm, where her family’s responsibility is to collect regrets—literally. These regrets, called “choices,” are surrendered by people who no longer wish to carry them. They come in all forms, from pocket change to a bottle of sake, which adds a surreal charm to the worldbuilding.

One of the most striking elements is the narrative structure. The story doesn’t unfold in a straight line. Instead, each chapter ends with a moment that takes your breath away, followed by a flashback—sometimes two weeks, sometimes years earlier—that provides emotional and narrative context. This technique keeps you engaged and fully immersed, as you’re constantly re-evaluating what you know about the characters and their world.

Magical travel is another highlight: characters can leap through puddles, be folded into origami, or float down rivers of joyful memories. Each method of travel is more creative than the last, and all contribute to the enchanting, dreamlike quality of the book.

Thematically, Water Moon explores the nature of regret and the illusion of choice. In a world filled with luminous birds—symbols of life and freedom—Hana is ironically trapped by her destiny. She’s expected to take over the family business and carry the regrets of others, all while lacking agency in her own life.

Character Development

As the story progresses, Kei and Hana’s layers slowly peel away. Their pasts, their pain, and their choices come into sharper focus, culminating in an ending full of twists that are both shocking and deeply satisfying. Every revelation felt earned, and each surprise enhanced the emotional weight of the story.

Hana’s growth is especially compelling. Her lack of agency is a central conflict, yet through her relationship with Kei, she begins to challenge her fate. Kei, in turn, is gentle, loyal, and layered—more than just a love interest, he becomes a mirror for Hana’s own emotional evolution. Their slow-burning connection is tender and protective, building quietly and meaningfully across the narrative.

The atmosphere also plays a key role in shaping the characters. The surreal world they inhabit isn’t just a backdrop—it reflects their internal struggles and deepens their journey. I couldn’t help but imagine a character reminiscent of a darker, more menacing version of No-Face from Spirited Away—a striking visual that lingered long after I put the book down.

Final Thoughts

I can’t overstate how vivid the atmosphere is. The realm, the creatures, the visuals—it all feels tailor-made for animation. This book needs to be adapted into a Studio Ghibli-style film. I’m manifesting it now. It deserves the screen treatment. For now, I’ll keep treasuring my Fairy Loot and Barnes & Noble exclusive editions.

Reading Water Moon felt like entering a dream I didn’t want to leave. Hours slipped by effortlessly as I lost myself in its gentle rhythm, stunning imagery, and emotional resonance. It’s a magical, masterful story—one I’ll carry with me for a long time.

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About the Author

Cynthia Bujnicki graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Writing, Literature and Publishing. She has always loved to read since she was a child. A contributing writer for YA Fantasy Addicts, she is also the Editor-in-Chief for Cyn's Workshop. She lives in sunny South Florida with her husband, two kids (the perfect pair), and their two cats Mr. J the Kitten and Nyx (aka Girl).