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(4)
4-6
Illustrated by
Isa Bancewicz.
Their mother's disappearance and father's accident forces the four Rothbaum children to move into their previously unknown aunt Gladys's crazy, circular house. When they discover that Aunt Gladys uses doors as memory portals, the siblings quest through memories to uncover the truth behind their parents' misfortune. Despite its poorly delineated characters, the quirky, slightly dark tale may appeal to Madeleine L'Engle's fans.
(4)
4-6
Illustrated by
Will Terry.
Despite horrific accidents and magical recoveries on his playground, new-to-town Dr. Fell has everyone (besides Nancy, Jerry, and Gail, that is) under his spell. Neilsen's storytelling and wicked plot (Dr. Fell is sucking the lives out of children) are accessible to intermediate readers, though some may grow impatient waiting for all to be unveiled in the finale. Black-and-white illustrations accompany the just-creepy-enough tale.