Great Books for Pagan Kids
The titles listed here are in order by author's last name. I have tried to put a description of all in print titles under each one and by clicking on the title you will be taken to Amazon.com where you may order if you so choose. Generally speaking any title here without the description is out of print and available only second hand.
Richard Adams
The story follows a warren of Berkshire rabbits fleeing the destruction of their home by a land developer. As they search for a safe haven, skirting danger at every turn, we become acquainted with the band and its compelling culture and mythos.
Lloyd Alexander
Because Princess Eilonwy possesses magical powers, she is sought by the most evil enchantress in the land.
Lloyd Alexander
In this second book in the award-winning fantasy series, The Prydain Chronicles, Prince Gwydion leads the quest to destroy the Black Cauldron--chief implement of the evil powers of the Lord of the Land of Death. "The reader's involvement is intense as the excitement leads up to the climactic meeting of tragedy and triumph."--The Horn Book. Newbery Honor Book; ALA Notable Children's Book.
Lloyd Alexander
In this fifth and final chronicle of Prydain the forces of good and evil meet in ultimate confrontation.
Lloyd Alexander
Taran Wanderer is perhaps the most personal of all the Prydain Chronicles, as the story focuses on Taran searching for his lineage. Taran is an orphan, raised by the wizard Dallben, and he wondered for a long time who his parents really were.
Lloyd Alexander
The tale of Taran, assistant pig keeper, has been entertaining young readers for generations. Set in the mythical land of Prydain (which bears a more than passing resemblance to Wales), Lloyd Alexander's book draws together the elements of the hero's journey from unformed boy to courageous young man. Taran grumbles with frustration at home in the hamlet Caer Dallben; he yearns to go into battle like his hero, Prince Gwydion. Before the story is over, he has met his hero and fought the evil leader who threatens the peace of Prydain: the Horned King.
Lloyd Alexander
Eight short stories dealing with events that preceded the birth of Taran, the Assistant Pig-Keeper and key figure in the author's five works on the Kingdom of Prydain.
David Almond
Ten-year-old Michael was looking forward to moving into a new house. But now his baby sister is ill, his parents are frantic, and Doctor Death has come to call. Michael feels helpless. Then he steps into the crumbling garage. . . . What is this thing beneath the spiders' webs and dead flies? A human being, or a strange kind of beast never before seen? The only person Michael can confide in is his new friend, Mina. Together, they carry the creature out into the light, and Michael's world changes forever. .
Amber k
Ages 12 and under
Ages 12 and underThe book has pages which include: moon phases, what a worship circle is and means to a pagan, aspects of the Goddess and the God, various pagan symbols and their meanings, a discussion of the various pagan holidays (focusing mostly on Celtic/Wicca ones), and discusses the Wiccan Rede. As well there are mazes, games, and puzzles for kids to do.
Trees : Trees Identified by Leaf, Bark & Seed (Fandex Family Field Guides)
Steven M. L. Aronson
It's the easiest and most fool-proof tree identification guide available. Four visual keys--die-cut leaf, bark pattern, distinguishing flower, seed, or nut, and photo of the full tree--and descriptions of height, shape, habitat, and more combine to give a complete picture of North America's forest and backyard trees. In addition, TREES is a cultural history--of the mighty White Oak and California Redwood, the tree that grows in Brooklyn and the important White Ash, as useful for Native American bows as for the powerful bats of our national pastime. 50 individually die-cut cards, full-color throughout
Lucky 13 Teen Witch No.1
Megan Barnes
Be Careful What You Wish For Teen Witch No. 2
Megan Barnes
Gone With the Witch Teen Witch No 3
Megan Barnes
Witch Switch Teen Witch No 4
Megan Barnes
The Merlin Series
T.A. Barron
William Bennett
Over one hundred stories and poems are grouped together by the virtue they illustrate, including faith, honesty, and courage. The selections, both literary and historic, include original pieces by Walt Whitman and Martin Luther and retellings from the Bible and Greek mythology. Bennett begins each of the ten chapters with an explanation of the particular virtue; the material is widely available elsewhere without Bennett's moral overtones. Ind. -- Copyright © 1997 The Horn Book, Inc.
Wendy Bright
When Papa finally lets her go to school with other children, Wendy the Witch is the happiest little girl in town. Then Papa gets into a spell-casting war with Wendy's teacher, and it's up to Wendy's spell-cruncher to save the day!------ Ingram
Thomas Bull Finch
Thomas Bulfinch was an 18th-century amateur historian who researched and cross-referenced ancient myths and legends with literature and art. For almost a century and a half, BULFINCH'S MYTHOLOGY has been the text by which these great tales of gods, goddesses, and heroes have been known. Often used as a text by students, the book is an indispensable guide to cultural values of the past.-----Ingram
Frances Hodgson Burnett
THE SECRET GARDEN is a wonderfully symbolic story about children finding love and happiness through their mutual delight in the magic of nature and in each other. Frances Hodgson Burnett creates characters so strong and distinct, young readers continue to identify with them even 85 years after they were conceived. (Ages 9 to 12)
Dia Calhoun
Her mother always dreamed that Cerinthe would become a dancer. Cerinthe chose instead to train as a healer. But when her healing powers fail to save her mother from death at the hands of the Black Ship, Cerinthe travels to Faranor to attend the yearly Trial at The School of Royal Dancers. After Cerinthe is accepted as a student, her personal trials begin in earnest. Rather than being happy about her opportunity to study dance, she is filled with an emptiness she can't identify. The tricks of jealous students make her life miserable. And worst of all, she can no longer hear the Sea Maid's joyous song. It takes an ill-fated competition to make Cerinthe realize that she must decide between what others want for her and what she wants for herself.
Dia Calhoun
Jonathon is haunted by his difference from everyone else in the Valley. And even his father won't listen to questions about his heritage. Could Jonathon be a Dalriada one of the mountain people who have magnificent horses, mystical powers, and blue eyes like his? "In the tradition of Robin McKinley's The Blue Sword ... Jonathon's quest evokes a timeless struggle for identity amid vivid imagery, heartbreaking loss, and a subtle weave of fantasy." School Library Journal
Forrest Carter
The memoir of a Cherokee boyhood in the 1930s. The most sensitive and evocative autobiographical account ever of the Cherokee way, as seen through the eyes of a young boy in the Appalachian Mountains.
Wildflowers (Fandex Family Field Guides)
Ruth Rogers Clausen
Wildflowers: large, bright die-cuts - often as big as the flower or even bigger - and true-to-life colors make this foolproof way to identify 47 of North America's wildflowers.
Meghan Collins
The Dark Is Rising Sequence/Silver on the Tree/The Grey King/Greenwitch/The Dark Is Rising/Over Sea, Under Stone
Susan Cooper
In the five-title series of novels known as The Dark Is Rising Sequence, these children pit the power of good against the evil forces of Dark in a timeless and dangerous battle that includes crystal swords, golden grails, and a silver-eyed dog that can see the wind. Susan Cooper's highly acclaimed fantasy novels, steeped in Celtic and Welsh legends, have won numerous awards, including the Newbery Medal and the Newbery Honor. Now all five paperback volumes have been collected in one smart boxed set. These classic fantasies, complex and multifaceted, should not be missed, by child or adult.
Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher (Magic Shop)
Bruce Coville
(gr. 4-7)
While evading the class bullies one afternoon, Jeremy Thatcher discovers a magic shop and buys a small marbled ball there. It turns out to be an egg that hatches into red dragon Tiamat (who is invisible to everyone but Jeremy and one of his friends). Jeremy cares for the dragon until the day when it must return to its own world. A simple fantasy about friendship.
C.M. Curtis
This spiritual book provides a wonderful introduction to the belief of oneness with our universe. By inspiring a feeling of interconnectedness and belonging, it encourages children to become more involved in caring for our environment, and for others. The Sun and Sister Star teach, "In all the world, in all of space, your light shines bright...it's everyplace!" Now that is the true beginning of a strong se! lf-image and a true empowering process.
Karen Cushman
gr 5 & up Catherine's father wants her to marry a rich, ugly old man. Through Catherine's diary, Karen Cushman gives a view of life in medieval England, including its fleas, crude manners, squalor and the special treat of clean bed linen.
Karen Cushman
grade 6 and up--Set in medieval England, Alyce, who rises from the dung heap (literally) of homelessness and namelessness to find a station in life--apprentice to the crotchety, snaggletoothed midwife Jane Sharp. On Alyce's first solo outing as a midwife, she fails to deliver. Instead of facing her ignorance, Alyce chooses to run from failure--never a good choice.Newbery M
Margeurite DeAngeli
Grade 4-6
Robin proves his courage and has adventures despite losing the use of one of his legs in the plague-ridden London of the thirteenth century.
Tonie Depaolo Ages 4-8
Strega Nona -- "Grandma Witch" -- is the source for potions, cures, magic, and comfort in her Calabrian town. Her magical everfull pasta pot is especially intriguing to hungry Big Anthony. He is supposed to look after her house and tend her garden but one day, when she goes over the mountain to visit Strega Amelia, Big Anthony recites the magic verse over the pasta pot, with disastrous results.
Tonie Depaolo Ages 4-8
Big Anthony tries to join Strega Nona's magic class, with hilarious results. Full-color illustrations throughout.
Tonie Depaolo Ages 4-8
When Strega Amelia comes to Strega Nona's village and sets up her own rival business in lotions, potions, and matchmaking, she uses free sweets and cappuccino to draw customers away from her old friend. Strega Nona's customers desert her, and soon she can no longer afford to pay her helpers. The hapless Big Anthony goes to work for Strega Amelia, who leaves him in charge one day, with results that Strega Nona fans will find deliciously predictable.
Ingri and Edgar Parin D'Aulaires Ages 9-12
This best-loved children's book about the gods and goddesses, kings and heroes of ancient Greek mythology offers a whirlwind introduction to Zeus, Hera, Hermes and the other gods, and their often rascally behavior on Mount Olympus and among mortals on Earth.
D'AULAIRES' BOOK OF CELTIC MYTHS
Ingri and Edgar Parin D'Aulaires
D'AULAIRES' BOOK OF GODS AND GODDESSES.
Ingri and Edgar Parin D'Aulaires
So You Want To Be A Wizard? (Series)
Diane Duane grade 5-8
Thirteen-year-old Nita, tormented by a gang of bullies because she won't fight back, finds the help she needs in a library book on wizardry which guides her into another dimension.When they embark on a mission to locate an ancient book that holds the key to preserving the universe, Nita Callahan and her pal Kit discover an eerie alternate Manhattan, populated with eating helicopters, wolflike creatures, and a dragon. Reprint. SLJ. H.
Lois Duncan Ages 9-12
When the old woman died, she left her grandchild Nancy with the extraordinary gift of magic. Nancy can read people's minds, know their thoughts, and make them do what she wants. Will she use her gift for good, or satisfy her own selfish desire?
Edward Eager's Tales of Magic : Half Magic, Knight's Castle, the Time Garden, Magic by the Lake (Edward Eager Tales of Magic)
Edward. Eager Ages 9-12
Magic abounds in Edward Eager's world. Whether his young heroes and heroines are awash in a lake full of magic, making double wishes on a half-magic coin, cavorting with Robin Hood and Ivanhoe, or "thyme" traveling, the adventures simply never stop. Eager's ability to mingle reality with fantasy, his delectable wordplay, and light, witty touch make all four of these adventures pure delight.
Edward. Eager Ages 9-12
In this book Mr. Eager introduces us to James, Laura, Kip, Lydia, Deborah and Gordy....not to mention the magic of the wishing well. In this book James and Laura have just moved to the country from New York. They are both excited about this move. A move to the country, for them, signals the beginning of adventure. They find adventure, too, when Lydia suggests to Laura to make a wish upon the well in hers' and James' new backyard. Some of the good deed adventures in this book are exciting, some are not; however, interesting insight is offered into each character-which will come in handy when reading "The Well Wishers", the sequel.
Edward Eager Ages 9-12
Five kids discover a magic wishing well and use it for the greater good.
David Fontana and Ingrid Slack.
This resource gives a break down of age group appropriate meditations as well as some basics for any
beginner.
Mara Freeman
An excellent teaching tool to accompany your family's studies of the Celtic people and their path.
n this beautiful treasury of sacred wisdom, Mara Freeman shares the rich legacy of the Celts -- the festivals, godsand goddesses, saints, faeries, music, poetry, andstorytelling that anchor this magical tradition. Discovermyths, rituals, recipes, and crafts for every month of theyear.
Eyewitness Series' WITCHES AND MAGIC-MAKERS
Ages 9-12
With plenty of color photographs and a brief text, this extremely broad overview looks at witchcraft and those who practice it from historical, political, religious, and cultural perspectives. A dizzying variety of topics is broached, including artifacts and iconography, myths and facts, images from literature and movies, and healers and magic-makers from other cultures--Horn Book
Debra Frasier ages 4-8
Every child loves to hear the story of how he or she came into the world, but usually very little attention is paid to how the world was in that magical moment. For any family who feels a special connection to nature and the flow of life, On the Day You Were Born will help baby understand how each of us is received not just by our family, but by the universe and its gentle ways.
Monica Furlong Young Adult
This engrossing novel about a young girl's apprenticeship to a "good" witch is set in the British Isles soon after King Arthur's time. Wise Child is adopted by Juniper, a humble sorceress of white magic. But when Wise Child's real mother, a student in the black arts, shows up she tempts Wise Child with a life of luxury.
Monica Furlong Young Adult
IThis prequel to Wise Child recounts the childhood and spiritual initiation of Juniper, who will in turn pass down the secret teachings of the dorans to Wise Child. Readers will again enjoy the details of herb-gathering, spell-casting and mystic rituals. An atmospheric story that will both satisfy confirmed fantasy fans and involve readers new to the genre."--Bulletin, Center for Children's Books.
Urslan Judith Gaffington Ages 9-12
Snow Fairies tell the story of Tiemma Claus, Santa's wife, and how she, with the help of children, help Santa's growing problem of getting to all the world's children in one night. Tiemma is a beautiful, white haired, thoughful, woman full of love, insight, and inspiration. Empowering of the female role in a traditionally male story - without downplaying the importance of Santa's role. Christmas takes on an ancient pagan element as the north polers celebrate the Winter Solstice, magic is conjured, and joy abounds
Jean Craighead George
"Billie Wind is disciplined for doubting the beliefs of her Seminole tribe. She chooses her punishment--to journey into the Florida Everglades until she hears the animal gods who talk. . . . The conservation message grows naturally out of the excitement of the survival adventure story."--The New York Times.
Jean Craighead George
Roger L. Greene Ages 9-12
Retold out of the old romances, this collection of Arthurian tales endeavors to make each adventure--"The Quest for the Round Table", "The First Quest of Sir Lancelot", "How the Holy Grail Came to Camelot", and so forth--part of a fixed pattern that effectively presents the whole story, as it does in Le Morte D'Arthur, but in a way less intimidating to young readers.
Mary Dowling Hahn Ages 9-12
Aunt Blythe's house gives Andrew the creeps -- full of dark rooms, creaky noises, and the sound of a woman sobbing somewhere in the shadows. Then, in the middle of the night, Andrew awakens to find a boy standing in his room...a boy who is Andrew's double, except he looks as if he's come from the grave. He wants to follow him -- to a place where he will meet the spirits of long-dead ancestors...a place from which Andrew may never return.
Deborah Hautzig Ages 4-8
Little Witch is back, and this time she's mad! At her cousin Bossy, that is. Cousin Bossy has come for a visit and makes Little Witch feel as if she can't do anything right. When Little Witch has had enough, she dreams of turning her magic on Cousin Bossy--and turning her into a stinking pile of garbage. But is it all a dream?
Deborah Hautzig Ages 4-8
Forced to stay at home on Halloween because she's been too good, Little Witch gives three trick-or-treaters high-flying broomstick rides
Deborah Hautzig Ages 4-8
Finding the three friends Little Witch wants at her birthday party takes more than magic spells in this sequel to Little Witch's Big Night.
Deborah Hautzig Ages 4-8
Little Witch wants to go to school just like her friends, but her mother thinks she should stay home and learn from her witchy aunts. Mother Witch finally agrees to let Little Witch go, but only if she promises to be very,very bad. It's a wild ride on a broomstick that kids won't soon forget
Catherine Ryan Hyde
12-year-old Trevor is a good kid, and when his teacher gives the assignment, "Think of an idea for world change, and put it into action", he comes up with an idea that actually does transform the world. He sets out to do good deeds for three people. Instead of asking them to pay him back, he tells them to "pay it forward" - meaning that they have to do good things for three people as well. And so on. This book is great because Trevor is so earnest - you
want his project to work. But while "pay it forward" succeeds beyond his wildest dreams, this story isn't sugar coated. The characters struggle, are stubborn, make stupid decisions, and not everyone is goodhearted.
Ellen B. Jackson
Folk-art-like, earth-toned illustrations accompany a lucid text, which explains the relevance of the autumn equinox and the importance of the harvest. Jackson describes various cultural celebrations and how these customs have evolved into such holidays as Halloween and Thanksgiving. An adaptation of a Native American legend and an assortment of classroom projects and recipes are included.---The Horn Book
by Ellen Jackson
A companion volume to The Winter Solstice (1994) by the same writer and illustrator, this volume presents customs and lore surrounding the longest day of the year. Jackson includes information about the summer solstice from many (mainly Western) cultures and locales, from the Chumash and Anasazi Indians to the ancient Egyptians, from Swaziland to Sweden. A brief explanation of the earth's tilt, a solstice story adapted from a Hawaiian chant, and a few pages of solstice activities round out the treatment. The picture-book format makes the subject accessible to younger children,but limits the amount of information provided. Jan Davey Ellis' vigorous paintings illustrate the text with rich colors and abundant details. An attractive resource. Carolyn Phelan
Ellen Jackson
Tree of Life" is a educational storybook, which tells the story of biological evolution from before the first form of life appeared, to the appearance of the first humans, and all in words even a preschooler can understand. My three year old only had a few questions the first time I read it, and it is now one of his favorites. The large, beautiful purple and white illustrations also make it as enjoyable to look at as it is to read
Ellen Jackson Ages 4-8
This title introduces the winter solstice customs and beliefs of the ancient Britons, Scandinavians, Romans, and Peruvians, as well as certain Native American sun ceremonies. Jackson also explains how to demonstrate the earth's tilt using an orange and a flashlight; she connects ancient solstice practices to modern customs associated with Christmas and Hanukkah, and she ends the book with an adaptation of a Cherokee creation tale. Teachers will value the book's multicultural approach as well as its simple, readable text and attractive watercolor illustrations. While the introduction to the science of solstice could be fuller and the accompanying illustrations much more precise, the book definitely fills a niche. Carolyn Phelan
The Redwall Series
Brian Jacques Ages 9-12
Heaved off her ship in a pirate raid, Mousemaid Mariel is washed up on the shores of Mossflower. With no idea where she is, or indeed who she is, the young warrior mouse embarks on an unforeseen adventure that will take her to the very heart of Redwall and into the arms of the people who live there.
Bedrang the Stoat has his evil eyes set on ruling over his own empire, and will do anything to make sure that his ultimate fantasy is fulfilled. But little does he realize that the quiet, nameless mouse he is holding captive will one day turn out to be the heroic and fearless Martin the Warrior.
In the summer of the Golden Plain, the cunning fox, Slagar the cruel, and his evil henchmen sneak into Redwall Abbey to kidnap the woodland children -- including Mattimeo, son of the great warrior mouse Matthias. Now Matthias and a handful of brave followers must abandon their home to the mercy of General Ironbeak's invading ravens in order to rescue them.
The thrilling prequel to "Redwall". The clever and greedy wildcat Tsarmina becomes ruler of all Mossflower Woods and is determined to govern the peaceful woodlanders with an iron paw. The brave mouse Martin and quick-talking mouse thief Gonff meet in the depths of Kotir Castle's dungeon. The two escape and resolve to end Tsarmina's tyrannical rule. Joined by Kinny the mole, Martin and Gonff set off on a dangerous quest for Salamandastron, where they are convinced that their only hope, Boar the Fighter, still lives
When forces of the evil pine marten Mad Eyes threaten Redwall Abbey and demand the return of some pink pearls that they had stolen from an otter holding, young hedgehog Tansy leads a group in an attempt to solve the riddle and find the pearls. At the same time, mousewarrior Martin, grandson of Matthias, leads a brave band in pursuit of the enemy, a long chase that sees the group joined by otter warrior Grath, sole survivor of the raid when the pearls were stolen.
This is a terrific start to the Redwall series. Brian Jacques blends everything together, the characters, the plot, the setting, to create a wonderful work of literature. The animals of Redwall and the residing country live (or try to live) in peace. Yet, many cruel, egotistical animals create havoc in this world. Read Redwall and it's many counterparts, Salamandastron, Mossflower, and more, to find out how the creatures deal with such diversity.
The fifth in the Redwall series, about the adventures of the animals who inhabit the lands around Redwall Abbey, tells of the struggle of the great badger warriors, especially Mara, the warrior maiden, to regain their land from evil invaders. As usual, the battles and perils are many and complicated; the bad guys are very bad; most of the heroes survive; and the food and feasting are glorious. Happy times for Redwall fans. -- Copyright © 1993 The Horn Book
Joseph the Bellmaker, worried about his warrior mouse daughter, Mariel, who has disappeared on a mission, embarks on a journey when he receives signs that his daughter is in trouble. Battles and dangers beset him and his friends as he traverses his Redwall land on a desperate rescue mission
The tenth installment in the series-As young Tammo dreams of joining the Long Patrol--the legendary army of fighting hares that serves the Lady Cregga Rose Eyes, Ruler of Salamandastron--the brutal reality of a battle with Damug Warfang's mighty battalion of savage Rapscallions fast approaches.
Susan Jeffers Ages 4 to 8
In the 1850's, when the US wanted to buy his people's Pacific Northwest land, Chief Seattle delivered this eloquent message to a Commissioner of Indian Affai.
Celebrating the Great Mother : A Handbook of Earth-Honoring Activities for Parents and Children
by Cait Johnson, Maura D. Shaw
This handbook of Earth-honoring activities for parents and children provides a family-oriented approach to the rituals of celebration, giving parents and adults insights into the spiritual experiences which will inspire kids and help them to understand holiday meanings. Techniques ranging from visualization to Tarot play are developed with kids in mind.
Diana Wynne Jones Young Adult
Derk, an unconventional wizard, and his magical family become involved in a plan to put a stop to the devastating tours of their world arranged by the tyrannical Mr. Chesney.
Norman Juster Ages 9-12
This ingenious fantasy centers around Milo, a bored ten-year-old who comes home to find a large toy tollbooth sitting in his room. Joining forces with a watchdog named Tock, Milo drives through the tollbooth's gates and begins a memorable journey. He meets such characters as the foolish, yet lovable Humbug, the Mathemagician, and the not-so-wicked "Which," Faintly Macabre, who gives Milo the "impossible" mission of returning two princesses to the Kingdom of Wisdom. "
Leslie G Katz (ed.)
Dragonling Collectors Edition Volume 1-The Dragonling, A Dragon in the Family, Dragon Quest
Dragonling Collectors Edition Volume 2-Dragons of Krad, Dragon Trouble, Dragons and Kings
Young Darek longs to be a great hunter of dragons, but when he finds an orphaned dragonling, his sympathies lead him into a meeting with and an understanding of dragons. Openly moralistic with a charming little dragon and an exciting adventure. -- Copyright © 1991 The Horn Book
Fairies : Celebrations from Season to Season (Fairy Box Book)
by Adrienne Keith Ages 9-12
Stephen Krensky Ages 4-8
Krensky ably retells the story of 1692 Salem witch trials, making clear the unfairness of the trials that led to the executions of 19 supposed witches. Color drawings add atmosphere. . . ."--School Library Journal.
Madeline L'Engle Ages 9-12
An atomic physicist disappears when on a secret inter-planetary journey and his children experience adventures while searching for him. .. A trio of unearthly visitors changes the lives of Meg, Charles and their scientist mother. This is an imaginative tale of the fifth dimension of time travel and the quest of Meg and Charles to save their father who has mysteriously disappeared.
Brendan Lehane
Gail Levine ages 9-12
At birth, Ella is inadvertently cursed by an imprudent fairy named Lucinda, who bestows on her the "gift" of obedience. Anything anyone tells her to do, Ella must obey. Another girl might have been cowed by this affliction, but not feisty Ella: "Instead of making me docile, Lucinda's curse made a rebel of me. Or perhaps I was that way naturally." When her beloved mother dies, leaving her in the care of a mostly absent and avaricious father, and later, a loathsome stepmother and two treacherous stepsisters, Ella's life and well-being seem in grave peril. But her intelligence and saucy nature keep her in good stead as she sets out on a quest for freedom and self-discovery, trying to track down Lucinda to undo the curse, fending off ogres, befriending elves, and falling in love with a prince along the way. Yes, there is a pumpkin coach, a glass slipper, and a happily ever after, but this is the most remarkable, delightful, and profound version of Cinderella you've ever read.
CHRONICLES OF NARNIA SERIES -The Magician's Nephew; The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe; The Horse and His Boy; Prince Caspian; The Voyage of the Dawn Treader; The Silver Chair; and The Last Battle
C.S. Lewis Ages 9-12 but all ages will love these
Three children are drawn through a wardrobe into Narnia, where the White Witch has cast a spell over the land. They join great lion Aslan in his struggle to break the enchantment. The story is infused throughout with the timeless issues of good and evil, faith and hope.
Janet Taylor Lisle Ages 9-12
A story of something strange and wonderful that has appeared in Sam and Kate's junkyard &emdash; a tiny village of sticks and leaves. Newbery Honor.
Lois Lowry Young Adult
In a world with no poverty, no crime, no sickness and no unemployment, and where every family is happy, 12-year-old Jonas is chosen to be the community's Receiver of Memories. Under the tutelage of the Elders and an old man known as the Giver, he discovers the disturbing truth about his utopian world and struggles against the weight of its hypocrisy.
Lois Lowry
A dark and mysterious but plausible future world that is a society ruled by savagery and deceit Left orphaned and physically flawed in a civilization that shuns and discards the weak, Kira faces a frighteningly uncertain future. Her neighbors are hostile, and only a small boy offers to help. When she is summoned to judgement by the Council of Guardians, Kira prepares to fight for her life. But the Council, to her surprise, has plans for her. Blessed with an almost magical artistic talent that keeps her alive, Kira faces new responsibilities and a set of mysteries deep within the only world she has ever known. On her quest for truth, she discovers things that will change her life and world forever.
Nancy Luenn Ages 4-8
--``Mountains her bones/ Trees and plants her living hair/...Frogs and snakes are her sense of smell/ Insects her thoughts''--the metaphor is intriguingly applied, though it seems overextended. At the end, we who are ``her eyes'' and ``her children'' are encouraged to give back to the earth what we can: ``Plant living hair...use her gifts well.'' Waldman's designerly, heroic-scale watercolors present the earth in light-filled rainbow colors. An earnest paean that will appeal to many readers and can do only good.-- Copyright ©1992, Kirkus Associates
Jean & Claudio.Marzollo
Anne McCaffrey Young Adult
Forbidden by her father to indulge in music in any way, a girl on the planet Pern runs away, taking shelter with the planet's fire lizards who, along with her music, opens a new life for her. --Ingram
Eloise McGraw Ages 9-12
An extraordinary tale of a girl who is half folk/half human and never quite fits into either realm. The magical Moorfolk reject Saska and secretly exchange her for a perfect human baby. Saska grows up loved by her human parents but harassed by the other villagers. She escapes to the moors where she learns of her history and sets out to rescue the stolen human child. A 1998 Parents' Choice® Silver Honor, Newberry honor---Reviewed by Mary Nix
Robin McKinleyYoung Adult
Young AdultBeauty grows to love the Beast at whose castle she is compelled to stay, and through her love he is released from the curse that had turned him from man to beast.This luxuriant retelling of the story of the Beauty and the Beast is very different from McKinley's own Beauty (1978). While sticking to the tale's traditional outlines, this version by turns rushes headlong and slows to a stately pace, is full of asides and surprises, and is suffused with obsession for the rose and thorn as flora, metaphor, and symbol.
Susan Milord Ages 4-8
Ten magical folktales inspired by our vast and shimmering sky are combined with fascinating facts to take children on an ethnic journey exploring the sun, moon, stars, seasons, and weather. Story-related activities draw kids into cultures, arts and crafts, cooking, science, math, games and history! Full-color art and 100 "how-to-do-it" illustrations.
Dan Millman Ages 9-12
When Danny's family moves to a new neighborhood, he is confronted by a frightening bully. One night in a dream, Danny meets an old man with shining white hair--a man who will soon appear in real life and share a wonderful secret. An inspirational story about courage and love. Full-color illustrations
Gerald MorrisYoung Adult
Young AdultIn medieval England, fourteen-year-old Terence finds his tranquil existence suddenly changed when he becomes the squire of the young Gawain of Orkney and accompanies him on a long quest, proving Gawain's worth as a knight and revealing an important secret about his own true identity. The sequel is The Squire, His Knight, And His
Lady.
Janoe O'ConnerAges 4-8
Ages 4-8Attending school for the first time, Lulu the little witch likes her teacher, 'but there is one annoying factorcurly-haired Sandy Witch, who does everything better than Lulu. Packs plenty of child appeal with its everyday situations and witchy ambience. McCully's pictures incorporate just the right amount of humor and spooky details.' BL.
Janoe O'Conner
Circle of Magic Series
Tamora Pierce Young Adult
Young AdultIn a fantasy set in mythical lands surrounding the Pebbled Sea, four young people come to terms with the pain that life has dealt them, the prejudices they've inherited, and the unrecognized magical powers they were born with. The four come from varying backgrounds, but all have been misfits rankling against the restrictions that class and culture impose. Sandry (Lady Sandrilene fa Toren) feels ``Good f'r naught but to be waited on and to marry.'' She longs to be useful and competent. Daja, the Trader girl, wants to be a metalworker, but making things is forbidden to traders. Briar, a streetwise thief, harbors a special affinity for plants, and Trisana, the Merchant girl, seems to have a direct line to the forces of nature itself. Mage Niklaren Goldeye brings all four to a disciplined temple community where their special gifts can flower. Pierce (Wild Magic, 1992, etc.) employs the trappings of magic, yet never invokes it as a convenient plot device imposed from without. Instead it appears as an inner strength that each of the fully realized, compelling young protagonists must discover and harness. Meditation and the Zen-like practice of hands-on crafts are their tools of mastery. First in a series, this is a rich and satisfying read. (Fiction. 11-13) -- Copyright ©1997, Kirkus Associates,
Sandry's Steps Book 1
Rescued by a powerful mage and brought to a school of magic, four children, each orphaned or unwanted, discover their previously unrealized magical powers in different areas of mage craft. Although the children, who come from very different stations in life, begin at odds with one another, they learn how to work together for a common purpose. Despite the title, the novel focuses equally on all of the characters. -- Copyright © 1998 The Horn Book
The four young mages introduced in Sandry's story continue to learn how powerful they are when they meld their talents. In this adventure, it falls to Tris, the weather mage, to harness her temper and magic to save her friends and the Winding Circle community from marauding pirates who are employing their own deadly magic. Pierce skillfully develops her secondary characters while allowing Tris to take center stage, and smoothly advances the plot. A cut above many fantasies for the age group. Chris Sherman
Daja's Book Book, 3
Daja's skill with metalworking helps her make a connection with a group of Traders, even though she has been declared unclean by her people. With the help of her friends and their power, she also uses her newfound skills to fight a fire that threatens the droughtinflicted land. Rich with detail, the fantasy draws readers into a fascinating and fully realized world. -- Copyright © 1999 The Horn Book
Briar's Book Book 4
As a previously unknown plague spreads through the land, Briar, who has a magical connection to plantlife, helps with the desperate search for a cure. When the deadly disease strikes Briar's mentor, Rosethorn, Briar and his friends Sandry, Tris, and Daja must work together to save her. The final book in the series about four powerful young mages is as magical as the first three volumes. Copyright © 1999 The Horn Book, Inc.
Magic Steps Series
Tamora PierceYoung Adult
Young AdultFour years after we last saw the young mages Sandry, Tris, Daja, and Briar in the Circle of Magic quartet, Sandry is back. Now 14 years old, she is helping her great-uncle, Duke Vedris IV, ruler of Emelan, recover after a heart attack.
The Circle Opens, Book 1
This first title in Tamora Pierce's new series, The Circle Opens, will thrill fans of her terrifically popular previous books, including The Circle of Magic quartet and The Song of the Lioness quartet. With her spellbinding choreography of wit, gore, and intrigue, Pierce never takes a false step
Street Magic Book 2
A mage from Winding Circle discovers and must train a younger teen with an unrealized magical talent-there are enough twists and turns to provide fans with another exciting read. Briar Moss, whose green magic gives him a unique influence over plants, is abroad with his teacher Rosethorn when he finds a street urchin in a bazaar, polishing stones with magic.
Cold Fire Book 3
This item will be published in April 2002.
Song Of the Lioness Series
Tamora Pierce Ages 9-12
Eleven-year-old Alanna, who aspires to be a knight even though she is a girl, disguises herself as a boy to become a royal page, learning many hard lessons along her path to high adventure. This is the first book of three series (Song of the Lioness Quartet, The Immortals Quartet, and Protector of the Small Quartet) set in the magical kingdom of Tortall.
In the Hand of the Goddess (The Song of the Lioness Quartet, Book 2)
Alanna achieves the honor of becoming Prince Jonathan's squire and must be strong and courageous in order to protect him from the destructive forces of the evil sorcerer
Alanna, the only female knight, sets out across the desert of Tortall and is captured by desert tribesmen. Forced to prove herself, Alanna triumps in a magical duel to the death, becoming the tribe's first female shaman. But another battle rages in Alanna's heart--she must decide whether to marry Prince
Jonathan, her first love, or stay with her longtime friend George, the handsome, charismatic King of Thieves. "Lively and enjoyable, with a strong, vigorous heroine."--The Horn Book
Lioness Rampant (Song of the Lioness Quartet, Book 4)
In an action-filled adventure, Alanna, the first female knight, ventures out to find the ""gem of goodness,"" the Dominion Jewel, but Prince Jonathan's evil uncle, Duke Roger, suddenly returns from the dead and begins to wreak havoc on the kingdom.
The Immortals Series
Tamora PierceYoung Adult
Young AdultWild Magic (The Immortals Series , No 1)
Homeless, outcast Daine has a knack with animals -- they hear her, obey her, even talk to her -- and her talents, recognized as ild magic,grow even stronger under the tutelage of the mage Numair. Only Daine can sense the presence of the immortals -- evil creatures under the control of the country's enemies -- and in a burst of glory, she saves the kingdom from invasion. Lively, well-written, suspenseful fantasy. -- Copyright © 1993 The Horn Book
Wolf-Speaker (The Immortals Series , No 2)
Gr. 7-9. In this sequel to Wild Magic (1992), the pack of wolves that helped 14-year-old Daine avenge her family's death call her back from her mage training at King Jonathan's court. Humans ("two-leggers") are ruining Dunlath Valley. Daine, who speaks the language of animals and is learning to enter animals' minds and shape-change, works to help the two-leggers and the animals move beyond species prejudice to prevent an ecological disaster and the overthrow of the beneficent King Jonathan. Suspense is stronger than characterization here, but the exploration of diverse animal personalities will intrigue readers. Mary Harris Veeder
This volume is the third book about Daine, the orphan girl who has wild magic, a special ability to understand and heal animals. She is specially chosen for a peace mission to Carthak, a threatening enemy to Tortall, because the beloved birds of the emperor of Carthak are sick. A complex, carefully crafted and suspenseful adventure with an appealing heroine who is developing an enthusiastic following. -- Copyright © 1995 The Horn Book, Inc.
Realms of the Gods (The Immortals , No 4)
Daine and Numair are suddenly swept into the otherworldly home of the gods after facing certain death on earth. But they cannot remain there for long, because they are both needed to help fight the desparate battle raging in Tortall. And so they undertake the dangerous journey back to earth...a journey that will teach them a great deal about life and about each other, a journey that will lead to the startling culmination of the conflicts, both mortal and immortal, that have long plagued Tortall.
by Judith Pierson
The moon in all its different phases serves as a reminder of constancy and security.
In a pleasant, calming book for sharing at bedtime, Pierson celebrates the constancy of the moon in pure and pretty images: it "mirrors" its own picture in the waters; "shares its beams" on "rocky, rugged mountains"; and spreads a "nighttime light wide over the world." Through the eyes of a young boy peering out his window, the moon unifies the world. No matter if it is full, a sliver, or hidden, the boy finds comfort in knowing that it is always there, shining down on not only him, but on "huts of native people" and "dwellings of city people in many lands." Brooks's soft, blue-hued evening colors capture night moods and enhance the comforting tone of the text. A design element dresses up the lower corner of each spread, adding to the sense of balance that both story and illustrations convey
by Patricia PolaccoAges 4-8
Ages 4-8Polacco's Baba Yaga is not the wicked witch the villagers believe her to be but is, instead, a kind creature who wishes to become some child's beloved babushka. When she saves a young boy from wolves, the other grandmothers recognize her as one of their own. A dramatic text and animated artwork re-create Baba Yaga in a tale about love in disguise. -- Copyright © 1994 The Horn
Elizabeth Marie PopeAges 9-12
Ages 9-12