Copper by Rebecca Lisle (0-399-24211-2)
An engaging fantasy novel for elementary-level readers, this is a wonderful introduction to the genre. Copper has been raised by her Aunt Ruby until her aunt sends her away to the Marble Mountains because Copper is in danger. Copper arrives at the Marble Mountains and is received by a warm group of people in a house built in an enormous tree. Copper feels immediately at home there, and finds herself in the middle of an old battle between two families as she discovers her own personal history.
This tale is filled with lots of magic, though it can be confusing at times. Most of the story is very charming and makes the reader want to enter Spindle House and discover it for themselves. The charm of the book and the accessibility of the writing will have readers happily entering this fantasy world.