Into the Nightfell Wood

Gr 4–6—Only weeks after finding the Silver Gate and becoming the fairy queen's new princess, Wynn is bored. The fairies keep her safe and sheltered in their kingdom beneath a protective dome of light because of the constant threat of the Grendel, who has stolen the queen's children before. While Wynn is kept hidden away, Elric, now a prince expected to become a leader to the fairies, is trained for battle, but his true purpose is to draw the Grendel's attention from his sister. When Wynn is tricked into leaving the protection of the dome and goes into the shadows to save her pet hen Mildred, the queen is devastated, but Elric is determined to find her. Old and new friends alike help the siblings as they search for safety and freedom. Wynn's ongoing struggle with verbal expression leads others to assume that she is less intelligent or weak, but she proves time and again that her strength is in her hope and perseverance, as well as her devotion to her friends. This sequel to The Silver Gate has some frightening and violent moments, with terrifying creatures that aim to kill. These elements make Wynn and Elric's bravery all the more impressive and inspirational.