The Horse in the Attic

Poetic language and a theme of female strength underlie this fantasy novel about a 12-year-old girl who believes her life is falling apart when her parents decide to separate. She has to move from the house where she has always lived—until, that is, she discovers a whole new world with larger-than-life heroes, magical friends, and frightening events over which she achieves control. The depth of characterization and the skillfully drawn child's viewpoint make this adventure story both escapist and finely attuned to the real joys and pains in life.