In the darkness of a November night, Kate wakens to the murmur of voices. Listening in, she discovers that Papa Nordstrom must leave to work at a logging camp during the worst months of winter. How can the family get along without him? What if something goes wrong? And things do go wrong! What near- disaster happens as Kate tries to cover up what she’s done? Who left the strange message inside the organ, and what do the words mean? Will Kate, Anders, and Erik discover who is responsible for some mysterious disappearances around the community and Windy Hill Farm? And how does Christmas become truly real in Kate’s heart?
 
Best-selling novels set in the early 1900's in Minnesota, northwest Wisconsin, and Michigan, these compelling, historically accurate stories attract reluctant, average, and gifted readers. Both boys and girls identify with characters who face danger and mystery while learning to deal with peer pressure, family relationships, and the need for unconditional love and forgiveness.
 
"In her Northwoods Adventures, Lois Walfrid Johnson blends regional history, positive values, and engaging characters with mystery to boot. The same blend occurs in the Riverboat series, making the Underground Railroad very real to young readers. Our family gathered around and read each of her books aloud."
— Harvey Stower, Mayor, Amery, Wisconsin
Former State Representative, Wisconsin State Assembly