Emily and the Spellstone

Gr 4–6—Moving to a new town is not all it is cracked up to be for Emily Edelman. Not only do her parents forget her age on her 12th birthday but she must also deal with a school bully who hates her, a bossy older sister who makes her life miserable, and an annoying little brother who drives her insane. When Emily's parents refuse to buy her a phone for her birthday, she happens upon a strange stone, which initially looks simple but ends up being magical. It hosts an "immortal creature of malignant intent with powers so grand, one can't even imagine." This creature wants to give in to its evil impulses, but by law he must obey Emily's commands. Action commences and laughter ensues as the protagonist embarks upon a fantastical adventure. This fast-paced, twisty title will engage most readers to the very end.