Lesser known classic childrens historical and fantasy books
Discover hidden gems in children's literature with our curated list of lesser-known classic historical and fantasy books. From Diana Wynne Jones's *Charmed Life* to *Ballet Shoes* and *Peppermints in the Parlor*, explore timeless juvenile fiction that sparks imagination.
Book
Charmed Life
by Diana Wynne Jones
A bewitching comic fantasy by a master of the supernatural Cat doesn't mind living in the shadow of his sister, Gwendolen, the most promising young witch ever seen on Coven Street. But trouble starts brewing the moment the two orphans are summoned to live in Chrestomanci Castle. Frustrated that the witches of the castle refuse to acknowledge her talents, Gwendolen conjures up a scheme that could throw whole worlds out of whack.
Book
Ballet Shoes
by Noel Streatfeild
Three orphan girls. A pair of pink slippers. A lifetime in the spotlight. Read the classic that has captivated generations! Pauline, Petrova, and Posy love their quiet life together. They are orphans who have been raised as sisters, and when their new family needs money, the girls want to help. They decide to join the Children's Academy of Dancing and Stage Training to earn their keep. Each girl works hard following her dream. Pauline is destined for the movies. Posy is a born dancer. And Petrova? She finds she'd rather be a pilot than perform a pirouette. This beautiful children's classic is perfect for girls who love to dream about ballet, friendship, and finding their own special talents. Adult readers may remember them as the "Shoes" books from You've Got Mail!
Book
Peppermints in the Parlor
by Barbara Brooks Wallace
Sent to San Francisco to live with her beloved aunt and uncle, newly-orphaned, eleven-year-old Emily expectantly enters their once-happy mansion only to find unimaginable horrors.
