““There’s a difference between a dream and a delusion. A dream is something you work for. A delusion is something you expect to happen without putting in the work.””
— Baz reflecting on his aspirations and the reality of achieving them.
Archivist's Choice
Any Way the Wind Blows
Rainbow Rowell (2021)
Genre
Fantasy / Young Adult / Romance
Reading Time
12-15 hours
Key Themes
See below
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As the final chapter closes, Simon, Baz, Penelope, and Agatha must confront their deepest fears and uncertain futures, deciding whether to embrace a world they once saved or forge new paths beyond the magic that defined them.
Synopsis
Simon Snow, Baz Pitch, Penelope Bunce, and Agatha Wellbelove return to England, each dealing with their individual futures and lingering problems. Simon struggles with his identity now that he's no longer the Chosen One, questioning his place in the World of Mages and what that means for his relationship with Baz. Baz navigates family problems while trying to understand his vampiric nature. Penelope faces a problem after bringing a cursed American Normal to London, and Agatha, having had enough, seeks a new path entirely. The group must face their pasts, make difficult choices about their relationships and loyalties, and decide how to move forward, facing a final, emotionally charged adventure that promises resolution.
Reading time
12-15 hours
Difficulty
Medium
Pacing
Moderate
Mood
Emotional, Reflective, Romantic, Sweet, Melancholy
✓ Read this if...
You've read 'Carry On' and 'Wayward Son' and crave a satisfying, character-driven conclusion to Simon and Baz's story, exploring themes of identity, healing, and moving on.
✗ Skip this if...
You haven't read the previous books in the 'Simon Snow' series, as this is the final installment and heavily relies on established characters and plotlines.
Plot Summary
Return to England and Lingering Doubts
After their American road trip, Simon Snow, Baz Pitch, Penelope Bunce, and Agatha Wellbelove return to England. Simon is deeply bothered by his lack of magic and his wings and tail, feeling like a monster. He is also unsure about his future in the World of Mages and his relationship with Baz. Baz deals with the effects of his mother's magical illness and his aunt's political actions, while trying to understand his vampire nature. Penelope has brought Humdrum, a cursed American Normal, back to London, believing she can help him. Agatha, tired of the magical world, wants to escape it entirely and live a normal life, to her family's dismay.
Humdrum's Plight and Penelope's Quest
Penelope takes Humdrum to her family home, trying to find a cure for his curse. She learns that Humdrum is not just a ghost but a magical being trapped between worlds, a direct result of the Mage's actions in creating the 'Chosen One' prophecy. His existence is tied to the magical static left by Simon's power. Penelope researches extensively, realizing that Humdrum's curse is a unique magical problem that needs a deep understanding of the Mage's specific magic. She becomes set on freeing him, seeing it as a way to fix a wrong caused by the system she has always supported.
Simon's Identity Crisis and Baz's Family Troubles
Simon's wings and tail are a constant, painful reminder of his lost magic and his identity as the 'Chosen One.' He feels separate from the World of Mages and even from Baz, fearing he is no longer worthy. He tries to hide his physical changes, which adds to his emotional isolation. Meanwhile, Baz is torn between his mother, Natasha, whose magic is weakening, and his strong Aunt Morrigan, who wants him to take a more active, political role in the Pitch family. He also deals with his growing understanding of his vampire heritage, feeling disconnected from his human and magical life. He wants to talk to Simon but finds few chances.
Agatha's Escape and New Beginnings
Agatha, firm in her wish to leave magic behind, moves to a flat in London and takes a job at a flower shop. She finds peace in ordinary life and the anonymity of the Normal world. She stops contact with her magical family, to their dismay. Her journey is about self-discovery, as she learns to define herself outside of her magical family and her past relationships with Simon and Baz. She meets a kind Normal man, a baker, and begins to explore a life where magic is not a burden or an expectation, but a distant memory. Her peace, however, is sometimes interrupted by her friends' magical problems.
The Mage's Legacy and Humdrum's True Nature
Through intense research and some secret magical investigation, Penelope discovers that Humdrum is not just a side effect of the Mage's spells, but a living form of the magical energy the Mage took from the World of Mages to create Simon. Humdrum is the Mage's 'first try' at creating a vessel for the prophecy, a failed attempt that left him cursed to wander between worlds, feeding on magical static. This discovery strengthens Penelope's resolve to help him, realizing the great unfairness of his existence. She understands that freeing Humdrum needs not just a cure, but a way to put the stolen magic back into the world, without harming Simon.
Simon's Vulnerability and Baz's Support
Simon, overwhelmed by his physical changes and emotional distress, finally breaks down and talks to Baz. He expresses his fear of being a monster, of being unlovable, and his deep sense of loss regarding his magic and identity. Baz, despite his own family pressures, listens patiently and offers steady support. He reassures Simon that his physical changes do not change who he is to Baz, emphasizing his love and commitment. This conversation is a turning point in their relationship, allowing Simon to be vulnerable and Baz to show his deep affection and understanding, making their bond stronger amidst their individual struggles.
The Plan to Save Humdrum and the World
Penelope, with input from Simon and Baz, creates a plan to free Humdrum. It involves using Simon's unique connection to the Mage's magic, along with specific spells and rituals, to gently move the stolen magic from Humdrum back into the World of Mages. This is a delicate process, as too much magic could overwhelm Humdrum or harm Simon. The plan also needs a significant magical surge, which they decide to perform at Watford, a place with powerful magic. The risks are very high, as failure could result in Humdrum's permanent death, Simon's further suffering, or even wider magical instability.
The Ritual at Watford and Simon's Choice
The friends gather at Watford for the ritual. Penelope leads, guiding the complex spells, with Baz providing magical support and Simon acting as the channel. During the ritual, Simon feels a deep connection to the Mage's magic and to Humdrum. He feels the immense power surge through him, and for a moment, he faces a choice: reclaim his full power as the 'Chosen One' or let the magic flow back into the world, freeing Humdrum and giving up his own potential. In a selfless act, Simon chooses to release the magic, allowing it to return to its rightful place, ending his ties to the 'Chosen One' prophecy forever.
Humdrum's Transformation and Simon's Peace
As the magic spreads, Humdrum changes from his ghostly state into a young boy, finally freed from his curse. He is no longer a magical oddity but a real, living child, though with a unique origin. Simon, though still winged and tailed, feels a deep sense of peace. The heavy burden of the 'Chosen One' prophecy is gone, and he no longer feels like a monster. He accepts his new body and his magicless state, realizing that his identity is not defined by power, but by his relationships and his own choices. He finds comfort in Baz's continued love and the steady friendship of Penelope and Agatha.
Resolutions and New Beginnings
Afterward, each character finds a resolution. Baz makes peace with his mother, who begins to recover, and establishes his own identity within the Pitch family, balancing his vampire nature with his magical heritage. Penelope takes Humdrum in, becoming his guardian and helping him adjust to his new life. Agatha continues her normal life, finding happiness and stability with her baker boyfriend, sometimes visiting her friends but keeping her distance from the magical world. Simon and Baz strengthen their relationship, moving forward together, accepting their differences and embracing a future defined by their shared love and individual growth. The book ends with a sense of hopeful new beginnings for all.
Principal Figures
Simon Snow
The Protagonist
Simon learns to accept his physical changes and his magicless state, realizing his worth is not tied to prophecy or power, finding peace and a stronger sense of self.
Tyrannus Basilton 'Baz' Grimm-Pitch
The Protagonist
Baz learns to balance his family obligations, his vampire heritage, and his relationship with Simon, becoming more open and assertive about his own needs.
Penelope Bunce
The Supporting
Penelope embraces her role as a magical problem-solver and guardian, finding purpose in helping others and taking on a maternal role for Humdrum.
Agatha Wellbelove
The Supporting
Agatha successfully separates herself from the magical world, finding peace, independence, and a fulfilling relationship in the Normal world.
Humdrum
The Supporting
Humdrum transforms from a cursed entity into a real boy, freed from his magical prison and given a chance at a normal life.
The Mage (Ephraim Basilton Grimm-Pitch)
The Mentioned
Though deceased, his legacy is finally understood and dismantled, allowing the world to heal from his manipulations.
Natasha Grimm-Pitch
The Supporting
Natasha slowly begins to recover from her illness as the magical balance is restored, finding hope for her future.
Morrigan Grimm-Pitch
The Supporting
Morrigan maintains her political influence but is forced to acknowledge Baz's independence and evolving role within the family.
Themes & Insights
Identity Beyond Prophecy
This theme explores how characters define themselves once their old roles are gone. Simon, as the 'Chosen One,' struggles when he loses his magic and gains physical changes, fearing he's a monster. His journey is about accepting his new body and magicless state, realizing his worth is within him, not tied to a prophecy. Agatha also seeks to define herself outside of her past as Simon's girlfriend, choosing a normal life. The book argues that true identity comes from personal choices and relationships, not external labels, as seen when Simon chooses to release the Mage's power rather than reclaim his 'Chosen One' status.
“What if the greatest magic isn't about being chosen, but about choosing who you are?”
The Weight of the Past and Legacy
The novel examines how past actions, especially those of the Mage, continue to affect the present. Humdrum's existence is a direct, sad result of the Mage's manipulations, a living form of stolen magic. Baz deals with his family's history and the expectations placed on him as a Grimm-Pitch. The characters constantly work to fix historical wrongs and magical imbalances caused by earlier generations. The resolution involves not just fixing problems, but understanding their beginnings and putting past issues to rest, allowing for a new future free from old burdens.
“You can't outrun history, but you can choose how you carry it.”
Acceptance and Self-Love
A main theme, especially for Simon, is accepting his changed body and his non-magical state. He sees his wings and tail as monstrous, a source of shame and separation. Baz's steady love and acceptance are key to Simon's self-love. Baz also deals with accepting his full vampire nature. The characters learn that true acceptance comes from within, not from outside approval or fitting in. This is powerfully shown when Simon chooses to release the magic, accepting himself as he is, rather than trying to get back what he lost.
“You are not a monster, Simon. You are just… more.”
Found Family and Chosen Bonds
The strength of the chosen family — Simon, Baz, and Penelope — is a core part of the story. Despite their individual struggles and occasional frustrations, their loyalty and love for each other are constant. They consistently support each other through personal problems and magical dangers. Agatha, while finding her own path, stays connected to this main group, showing that even when paths separate, the bonds of friendship can last. The theme highlights that these chosen relationships are often more resilient and supportive than biological ties, especially during times of great change and uncertainty.
“We're not just friends, Snow. We're a coalition.”
Closure and Moving On
As the series finale, the book emphasizes finding resolution and moving on from past problems and successes. Each character seeks to finish old business and start new chapters. Simon finds resolution regarding his 'Chosen One' identity and his lost magic. Baz resolves his family issues and accepts his vampire nature. Penelope finds new purpose in caring for Humdrum. Agatha creates a completely new life for herself. The story suggests that true endings are not always about grand finales, but about the quiet, personal decisions to step forward into an unknown but hopeful future.
“Sometimes, the hardest part of a story isn't the beginning, but figuring out how to end it and still keep going.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Mage's Lingering Influence
The deceased antagonist's past actions continue to drive the plot.
Even though the Mage is dead, his manipulations and the magical imbalances he created are the central conflict of the story. Humdrum's existence, Simon's lost magic, and the overall state of the World of Mages are direct consequences of his actions. This device ensures that the past antagonist remains relevant, forcing the protagonists to fully understand and rectify the origins of their problems, rather than just dealing with symptoms. It provides a strong narrative through-line from the previous books and gives the characters a clear, ultimate goal.
The Magical Static/Curse of Humdrum
A living magical anomaly that embodies the central problem.
Humdrum serves as both a plot catalyst and a physical manifestation of the Mage's magical theft. His curse prompts Penelope's extensive research, which in turn uncovers the full truth about the Mage. He is a ticking clock and a moral dilemma, forcing the characters to find a solution that not only frees him but also restores balance to the magical world. His transformation at the end provides a tangible sign of success and closure for the overarching magical conflict.
Simon's Physical Manifestations (Wings and Tail)
A constant visual reminder of Simon's transformation and identity crisis.
Simon's wings and tail are more than just physical changes; they are a powerful symbol of his lost magic, his perceived monstrosity, and his struggle with self-acceptance. They serve as a constant source of internal conflict for Simon, driving his emotional arc. For Baz, they are a test of his unconditional love. This device externalizes Simon's internal turmoil, making his journey of self-acceptance visually compelling and deeply personal. Their presence forces Simon to confront his new reality head-on.
The Watford School of Magicks
A symbolic setting representing both history and a potential future.
Watford, the setting for much of the previous books, returns as a crucial location for the final ritual. It represents the history and traditions of the World of Mages, a place where the Mage's influence was strongest. By returning there to undo his legacy, the setting becomes a symbolic battleground for the past and the future. It imbues the final magical act with a sense of historical significance and closure, connecting the beginning of their journey to its ultimate resolution.
Critical analysis
Notable Quotes
““Sometimes you have to be the hero of your own story, even if you’re not the hero everyone else expects you to be.””
— Simon struggling with his identity post-Chosen One.
““Love isn't about being perfect. It's about being perfect for each other, even with all your flaws.””
— Penelope offering advice on relationships.
““The world doesn't end just because your story takes a detour.””
— Baz trying to reassure Simon about his future.
““You can’t just stop being a wizard. It’s not a hat you can take off.””
— Simon grappling with his loss of magic.
““Even if you don’t have magic, you still have power. The power to choose, the power to change things.””
— Niall reminding Simon of his agency.
““Being happy isn't about having everything. It's about being happy with what you have.””
— Shepard's philosophical outlook on life.
““Some things are worth fighting for, even if the fight is with yourself.””
— Baz's internal struggle with his feelings and actions.
““It’s amazing how much you can love someone, even when they’re being an absolute disaster.””
— A reflection on the complexities of Simon and Baz's relationship.
““The past doesn’t define you. What you do now does.””
— Penelope encouraging Simon to move forward.
““Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is ask for help.””
— Simon slowly learning to rely on others.
““You don’t have to have all the answers. Sometimes you just have to keep going.””
— Baz contemplating the uncertainties of his own path.
““There’s a kind of magic in just being ordinary, if you know how to look for it.””
— A quiet observation about finding wonder in everyday life.
““It takes courage to be happy, sometimes. Especially when you’re used to being miserable.””
— Baz's internal thought process regarding his own emotional state.
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Key Questions (FAQ)
Simon grapples with whether he still wants to be a part of the World of Mages, given his loss of magic and the trauma of his past. This decision directly impacts his sense of self and his relationship with Baz, as their connection has always been intertwined with their magical world.
About the author
Biography coming soon.
