"The mystery element in this realistic story of a little girl on an Ohio farm may prove a good sales angle, but actually, as a mystery it is pretty slim. Good background of farm life and of the children's responsibilities, to which adds a warm heartedness that will not be blocked by the frigidity of her reception by the soured old woman in the big dark house. One could wish that the children had a few human faults, but the story on the whole is credible-and nice reading. Harriet Evatt has shown a wide range in her writing; this isn't up to her best, but she is one of today's worthwhile writers for this age group." -- Kirkus Review
I loved this book as an 8 year old child. I read it over and over. I could relate to the rural life of the main character, and I lived the mystery. Reading it again as an adult was much less exciting.