The Riddle of Penncroft Farm


Children - Grade 4th-6th
272 Pages
Reviewed on 08/29/2024
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

The Riddle of Penncroft Farm by Dorothea Jensen invites readers on an engaging journey through history and mystery. The story centers on Lars Olafson, a young boy uprooted from his life in Minneapolis to his family's farm near Valley Forge—a place brimming with secrets. At first, Lars struggles with his new surroundings, but things turn unexpectedly when he meets Geordie, a ghost with fascinating tales from the American Revolution. Geordie’s stories bring the past to life with vivid details about the Battle of Brandywine, the encampment at Valley Forge, and the everyday struggles of people living in British-occupied Philadelphia. As Lars begins to see his new home through Geordie’s eyes, he also discovers that these ghostly tales might hold the key to solving a contemporary mystery.

The Riddle of Penncroft Farm does a fantastic job of blending historical facts with fiction, making it a perfect enrichment resource for middle schoolers studying the American Revolution. What makes it an excellent classroom aid is Jensen’s afterword, which tells readers what is fiction and what’s factual. A glossary is an added learning tool. The novel’s ability to remain in print for 35 years and be used in schools across the U.S. speaks volumes about its appeal and educational value. With its memorable characters and rich storytelling, The Riddle of Penncroft Farm makes history feel alive and relevant, offering young readers a compelling way to connect with the past while solving a mystery in the present. It was wonderful to be reintroduced to Dorothea Jensen’s remarkable novel.

Doreen Chombu

The Riddle of Penncroft Farm by Dorothea Jensen is a captivating story that follows Lars Olafson, a young boy who has just moved with his parents to a farm that has been in his family for many generations in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. The Penncroft farm is run by his Great-Aunt Cass, who is old and fragile. Lars is skeptical about changing schools and living on the farm but soon begins to enjoy his stay after meeting a new friend, Geordie. Lars notices that Geordie dresses and talks differently and tells peculiar tales about George Washington, British attacks, and the First American Civil War. This makes him realize that Geordie is a ghostly figure attempting to help Lars learn about his family's past. After a tragedy leaves Lars and his family grappling with loss, he becomes even more determined to unravel the clues in Geordie’s tales because they hold the key to solving a great mystery that could save his family farm.

The Riddle of Penncroft Farm is an entertaining story that will transport readers through time and give them a glimpse of history as seen through the eyes of a young boy discovering his roots. It blends themes of adventure, self-discovery, courage, and friendship. It also delves into the importance of heritage and history, educating readers about the past while intertwining it with the challenges of present-day life. The narrative is rich with historical elements and emotional depth. Lars is a curious boy who learns to adapt and finds joy in his new experiences. His development throughout the story is beautiful to witness, from a grumpy child not willing to move to a courageous young boy eager to learn. I enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to anyone who loves a mix of adventure and history.