1) A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L'Engle
Plot Summary: This classic science fantasy novels follow Meg, her brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin on an intergalactic journey to rescue Meg's father from an evil force. Featuring the best of both fantasy (fighting dark forces, and supernatural beings) with science fiction (time and space travel, and scientific theories) this genre-bending book is the perfect foray into lengthier stories (240 pages) and will be sure to keep readers interested.
Appeal: Aimed at ages 9+, this title tackles complex themes like non-conformity and the discovering of your own "faults" as strengths. The layered and imaginative plot offers readers the opportunity to develop critical literary analysis skills and come away from the reading experience with personalized insights into the story.
Limitations and Weaknesses: Although this story is manageable for ages 9 and up, there are scary elements to the plot that require adults to offer support to more timid readers. Additionally, the inner dialogue and nature of the protagonist Meg may read as overly critical and angry. Some readers find her character arc to be limited and disappointing,
L’Engle, M. (2007). A wrinkle in time. Square Fish.