Witch Hat Atelier: Grimoire Edition 1 Mangaka Kamome Shirahama

Manga Review

5 out of 5 stars!


First and foremost! This is the Grimoire Edition which includes Volumes 1-3! So possible spoilers ahead. I do love that this compilation of volumes and bonus content is called the Grimoire Series! Very fitting for the story!


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"It never gets old. Magic is amazing!" - Coco


A picture book about magic and a wand to go with it changed Coco's destiny the moment she exchanged money for it. She's been enamored by magic and has wished constantly on all the stars to become a witch! But one has to be born one and she wasn't.


Only is this the actual truth? Qifrey the Witch stops in her small hamlet to purchase some things and help out a magical item. Coco tried, she really did, not to peek in on Qifrey using magic but curiosity won out. Learning the truth of things opened a whole new world and one Coco soon has no choice but to become a part of. Feeding her hunger for knowledge and understanding that magic can be utterly breathtaking but there is darkness within the texts. Forbidden spells.


"If you're going to learn then why not know more about the spells of kindness." - Qifrey


I really have no idea why I waited so long to read this! The Grimoire is my first introduction into the world of Witch Hat Atelier and I LOVED it! Now I want to watch the anime but also continue reading the series plus all the side story manga!


First of all, the artwork is stunning! I wished through NetGalley we were able to see more of the bonus pages, but I understand why. I truly loved the full color pages and the lineart! How the artist used lighting in the background or shadows on characters faces to convey bright, humorous, and joyful moments or intense, serious, and sad scenes. There are a couple of panels where it was a crazy flip of emotions.


Coco is such a sweet and happy little girl. I am honestly surprised she didn't combust a couple of times with just how much energy/emotions were coursing through her! Starry eyed and eager to learn and see everything in this new magical world. Not taking anything for granted because she's finally here! Even if the reason behind it is a sad and heartbreaking. Having a positive outlook on things even when situations look bleak and unattainable. My heart soared when I saw her put her own unique spin on something!


Meeting the other girls was cool and I like how they aren't instantly accepting of Coco. Well, Tetia is that golden retriever who will love anyone regardless of rumors. The cautiousness and doubts while trying to feel out the new apprentice. One girl I am trying to decide if I like or not, I can understand the reasoning behind her actions but still! 


This read has some very light and happy moments with humor but there's an underlying grimness and serious nature. A couple of panels and things about characters felt ominous. I didn't catch any language and there's no gore. Some slight nonsexual nudity.


The book ends on a cliffhanger and I NEED more of this series! I'm hooked. I enjoyed Qifrey's lesson on the history of magic in this world and the things Witch's do to protect it. The unique and simple twist on who can use magic and who can't in this world got me. Want to know more about everyone and everything! To see where Coco ends up and hoping that brilliantly optimistic spark doesn't burn out!


Enjoy this read whether you're new to it like me or an original fan of the manga! Don't forget to give the author some stars!


Thank you so much Kodansha and NetGalley!


Witch Hat Atelier: Grimoire Edition 1: Shirahama, Kamome: 9798888777794: Amazon.com: Books


Witch Hat Atelier: Grimoire Edition 1 | Barnes & Noble®


Witch Hat Atelier: Grimoire Edition - Kodansha


Kamome Shirahama's Instagram


白浜鴎🏳️‍🌈とんがり帽子アニメ化 (@shirahamakamome) / X

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