Query:

[nilchance]

I need examples of awesome female characters in books appropriate for an 8-10 year old. Bonus fries if the characters are crafty. I've already got Lyra from the Golden Compass and Eilonwy from the Prydain Chronicles.

(Short version of the story: Jake Jensen is the best uncle EVER, and also soulbondomg.)

Comments

[beetle-breath.livejournal.com]

Seconding Dealing with Dragons & any Tamora Pierce series (though I don't know how comfortable the parents would be with the whole "Alanna sleeps with 2 guys at once" thing)

also The Westing House

maybe the Redwall series? Not really female-centric but I loved those books as a kid.