5 / 5

Easily one of the most inspiring manga I have read in years. The art and linework is astounding and the drawings have that wonderful, dynamic feel of sketches that is often lost in fully rendered artwork. Generally the visual language is somewhat reminiscent of woodcuts, which adds to the "witchy" tone and atmosphere.

The story is mysterious, as well as heartfelt and contains numerous interesting characters and wonderfully playful creature designs that are presented almost as an afterthought. While Harry Potter has essentially set the bar and tone for magic and magic schools, Witch Hat Atelier completely reimagines the workings of magic in a way that is simple, yet intriguing and inspiringly innovative. The world feels coherent and each new piece that is presented adds a new layer of wonder and awe for this prodigious setting.

If you want to pick up a fantasy manga that is more about exploration, creativity and wonder than combat or competition, then this is it.