House of Many Ways

Exactly what I'd expect from Diana Wynn Jones. It's magical, whimsical, and light hearted. There's great descriptions of scenes and characters that really help set the mood for everything. Perfect middle school read! 

I've read the Howl Series and would say this is my second favorite. To rank them book 1 is the best, book 2 you can skip, book 3 is fun read.