Step into the enchanting world of Castle Glower, where a magical, sentient castle reshapes itself every Tuesday and chooses its own king! Jessica Day George’s Castle Glower series is a delightful middle-grade fantasy adventure that follows Princess Celie and her siblings as they navigate court intrigue, mythical creatures, and a castle with a mind of its own. Perfect for readers who love whimsical storytelling and heartwarming coming-of-age tales, this series is a hidden gem in children’s literature.
With its blend of humor, magic, and family bonds, Castle Glower captures the imagination of young readers and adults alike. Whether it’s outsmarting villains or befriending griffins, Celie’s adventures in a ever-changing castle make every page a thrilling ride. Let’s explore how this magical series came to be, its core stories, and why it continues to charm readers.
How Castle Glower Began
Jessica Day George, a New York Times bestselling author, crafted the Castle Glower series after a spark of inspiration struck one night. Exhausted and climbing into bed, she imagined a castle named 'Slaughter' that grew new rooms when bored. Wisely renaming it Castle Glower, George built a world around eleven-year-old Princess Celie, whose love for the castle’s quirks drives the story. Published by Bloomsbury, the series began in 2011 with Tuesdays at the Castle, launching a five-book journey that blends fairy-tale charm with modern wit.
George, a former librarian with a passion for fairy tales and Viking sagas, drew on her love for magical settings to create a castle that’s practically a character itself. Her goal was to write something fun and whimsical for younger readers, as urged by her editor, Melanie. The result is a series that feels like a love letter to fantasy fans, with a touch of Hogwarts and Howl’s Moving Castle.
The Heart of Castle Glower
The Castle Glower series spans five books, each brimming with adventure and magic. Tuesdays at the Castle (2011) introduces Celie, who maps the castle’s ever-changing rooms. When her parents are ambushed, Celie and her siblings—Rolf and Lilah—use the castle’s tricks to thwart a treasonous plot. Wednesdays in the Tower (2013) sees Celie discovering a mysterious egg, leading to the hatching of a griffin, a mythical creature tied to the castle’s secrets. Thursdays with the Crown (2014) transports the siblings to a strange land, where they uncover the castle’s ancient origins alongside wizards and lost peoples.
Fridays with the Wizards (2016) and Saturdays at Sea (2017) wrap up the saga, with Celie facing dangerous wizards and a magical ship crafted from the castle’s parts. Themes of loyalty, teamwork, and courage shine throughout, as the Glower siblings band together to protect their home. The sentient castle, with its playful rearrangements and protective instincts, adds a unique flavor, making the setting as vibrant as the characters. George’s narrative style—limited third-person from Celie’s perspective—keeps the tone light yet emotionally resonant, perfect for readers aged 7–12.
The series’ medieval-inspired world, sprinkled with griffins and wizards, feels both familiar and fresh. Countries like Sleyne and Grath echo European realms but evolve into distinct, fantastical cultures as the series progresses. George’s knack for weaving humor (think pranks on villains) with deeper lessons about trust and responsibility makes the series universally appealing.
Why Castle Glower Resonates
Castle Glower’s charm lies in its ability to balance whimsical fun with meaningful storytelling. Fans praise its clever protagonists and the castle’s quirky personality, often comparing it to beloved fantasies like Harry Potter or The Princess Academy. Reviews from Kirkus and Booklist highlight its wide appeal, noting how Celie’s adventures inspire young readers to embrace their ingenuity. The series’ focus on sibling bonds and standing up to greed or betrayal resonates with readers navigating their own challenges.
Though not as mainstream as some fantasy giants, Castle Glower has carved a niche among middle-grade readers and educators. Its blend of action, magic, and heart ensures it remains a go-to for parents seeking clean, engaging stories. The series’ lasting appeal lies in its celebration of imagination—proof that even a lesser-known saga can leave a big mark.
- Publication Years: 2011–2017
- Number of Books: 5
- Target Age: 7–12
- Genre: Middle-grade fantasy adventure
Ready to explore a castle that’s alive with magic? Grab Tuesdays at the Castle and dive into Jessica Day George’s whimsical world of Castle Glower!