Margaret Elizabeth Thatcher, age twelve, is cursed with the strong name of a famous British leader but also a weak body, thanks to her asthma and life-threatening food allergies. Then at the special Wayfinder Girls camp, Maggie is chosen for a different kind of leadership training. She is given the chance to protect Earth from otherworldly invaders. Oceans 11 meets fairy fantasy in Maggie and the Mountain of Light, a fun adventure that inspires young readers to seek friendships and bravery. Mark Snoad explores perseverance in the face of doubt and discernment between hard decisions.

Best for: Middle grade fans of fantasy, homeschoolers looking for unit study.

Discern: Magical creatures, children who occasionally lie to parents.