ages 8-15Katie is a regular 11-year-old girl with the typical problems of a fifth grader: a bully named Maryann McAllister who won't leave her alone, a little sister Emma who can drive her crazy, and parents who just don't seem to understand her. That is, until an incredible secret changes her life forever. The discovery of an ancient key hidden in the old dusty attic of Katie's house provides the promise of mystery and excitement she craves. When her dad dismisses it as worthless, she resolves to uncover the truth - even if no one knows.Late one night as her sister sleeps soundly, Katie tiptoes down the dark hall, heart pounding, led by the glowing key. Amazed when an old wooden door appears, the key unlocks the passageway to a magical land filled with colorful characters and mystical creatures that seem oddly familiar.Surprised to encounter her sister Emma, happily dancing and singing in the midst of a princess tea party complete with unicorns and castles, Katie slowly realizes she had stepped right into one of her sister's dreams. It isn't long before Katie learns there is a dark side to this enchanted place as she ventures into the Land of Shadows--the birthplace of nightmares. Dreaming is no longer just for those who are sleeping...