The Princess and the Goblin, by George MacDonald

(Paperback, 256 pages, first published in 1872)

Princess Irene lives in a castle in a wild and lonely mountainous region. One day she discovers a steep and winding stairway leading to a bewildering labyrinth of unused passages with closed doors - and a further stairway. What lies at the top? Can the ring the princess is given protect her against the lurking menace of the boglins from under the mountain?

Considerations: This book uses some archaic language, better for advanced readers

Recommended Age: 8+ or 6+ as a read-aloud