Edward Eager's Magic Tales Series, Book 1: Half Magic

The children in this family are stuck at a very boring family gathering - stuck, that is, until one of them, while holding a coin, says aloud, "I wish we were home." Then the entire group finds themselves dropped into the middle of the road on the way home. The wish came true - but only half of it! Each child will eventually claim a turn with the coin and adventures in the desert, in the time of the Knights, shall ensue. Delightful! Edward Eager wrote a number of wonderful, gentle tales that can delight the imagination of children. Also, take a look at Time Garden which involves time travel. The children meet their own parents as children. Imagine that! 208 pages Ages 8-12