The Penderwicks

While vacationing with their widowed father in the Berkshire Mountains, four lovable sisters, ages four through twelve, share adventures with a local boy, much to the dismay of his snobbish mother.  (Goodreads)

What adventurous sisters.  The loss of their mother to cancer after Batty was born has taken its toll, but their father has managed to raise four daughters who stick together through thick and thin.  Many lessons are learned throughout the book but all in a lighthearted way that will appeal to the younger reader capable of tackling a YA novel.  It is a timeless story that any family can relate to.  Well deserving of the National Book Award received.