A young orphan named Krabat finds himself trapped in a sinister mill that serves as a front for a school of dark magic. Krabat seeks to survive his apprenticeship under the Master, a powerful sorcerer who demands absolute obedience from his pupils. He must navigate the treacherous social hierarchy of the mill while attempting to master forbidden arts without losing his soul. The narrative unfolds through a third-person perspective that emphasizes the oppressive atmosphere of the mill and the cyclical nature of the dark rituals performed there. Krabat relies on his wits and the bonds he forms with fellow apprentices to resist the malevolent influence of the Master.

Readers frequently highlight the unsettling atmosphere and the effective use of folklore to ground the supernatural elements of the story. Discussion often centers on the moral development of Krabat as he balances the allure of magical knowledge against the inherent evil of the Master. Critics note the precision of the pacing, which mirrors the repetitive, grinding nature of the mill itself. Many appreciate the subtle characterization of the apprentices, whose individual struggles provide a human element to the dark fantasy setting. The book is widely regarded for its ability to maintain a sense of dread while exploring themes of freedom and personal agency.