Anthea Bell

In this fairy tale set "seven miles beyond Cloud-Cuckoo-Land," a girl becomes lost in a forest after her parents argue over their last bit of porridge.

Twelve-year-old Meggie learns that her father, who repairs and binds books for a living, can "read" fictional characters to life when one of those characters abducts them and tries to force him into service.

Gwen's life has been a rollercoaster since she discovered she was the Ruby, the final member of the secret time-traveling Circle of Twelve. In between searching through history for the other time-travelers and asking for a bit of their blood (gross!), she's been trying to figure out what all the mysteries and prophecies surrounding the Circle really mean.
At least Gwen has plenty of help. Her best friend Lesley follows every lead diligently

...

When an encoded diary about Ludwig, the fairytale king of Bavaria who was declared insane and died mysteriously soon thereafter, falls into his hands, rare book dealer Steven Lukas is forced to go on the run as he becomes the target of Ludwig's deranged modern-day followers.

Sixteen-year-old Gwen, the newest and final member of the secret time-traveling Circle of Twelve, searches through history for the other time-travelers, aided by friend Lesley, James the ghost, Xemerius the gargoyle demon, and Gideon, the Diamond, whose fate seems bound with hers.

Since learning she is the Ruby, the final member of the time-traveling Circle of Twelve, nothing has gone right for Gwen and she holds suspicions about both Count Saint-German and Gideon, but as she uncovers the Circle's secrets she finally learns her own destiny.

Originally published in 1991, this stunning collection of classic fairy tales by Hans Christian Andersen, illustrated by internationally acclaimed artist Lisbeth Zwerger, has been expanded with three stories. All are illustrated with Zwerger's signature style-marked by wit, grace, elegant simplicity, and insouciant charm.

Igraine, who turns twelve tomorrow, dreams of becoming a famous knight. But today, like most days, life at the family castle remains . . . rather boring.
Until the nefarious nephew of the baroness-next-door shows up. Greedy Osmund’s got a dastardly plan to capture Pimpernel Castle and steal the singing magic books that belong to Igraine’s mom and dad. Complicating matters, on the eve of the siege her parents misspeak a spell and turn...

In this collection of Stefan Zweig's short stories, the very best and worst of human nature are captured with sharp observation, understanding and vivid empathy. Ranging from love and death to faith restored and hope regained.