Grace Brooks Hill's The Corner House Girls at School is a classic girls' story from 1914 that feels like a warm hug. It's the kind of book you can curl up with when you want a story about friendship, family, and simple adventures.

The Story

We meet the four Kenway sisters: responsible Ruth, lively Tess, gentle Dot, and the youngest, Agnes. After a change in their family's circumstances, they move to a new town and into the sprawling, somewhat spooky Corner House. Along with their faithful dog and a helpful elderly friend, they start at a new school. The plot follows their daily lives—making friends (and a few rivals), joining clubs, and dealing with schoolwork. But woven through it all is the mystery of their new home. Is there really a secret room? What's the story behind the strange noises and the local rumors about a hidden treasure? The girls' curiosity turns their new life into a gentle detective story, where solving the puzzle of the Corner House becomes their biggest extracurricular activity.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a delightful window into a simpler time. The conflicts are about honesty, loyalty, and kindness, not global crises. What I love most are the sisters. Their dynamic feels real—they squabble, they support each other, and they have distinct personalities. Ruth is the little mother, Tess is the impulsive one, and so on. You root for them as a team. The charm isn't in high-stakes drama, but in the quiet joy of their discoveries and the solid goodness of their friendships. It's a story that values character over plot twists, and that's refreshing.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves classic series like The Boxcar Children or Anne of Green Gables. It's ideal for younger readers looking for a clean, engaging story, or for adults who enjoy nostalgic, gentle reads. If you're a fan of historical fiction that shows everyday life in the early 1900s, you'll appreciate the details. Just don't go in expecting fast-paced action. This is a slow, character-driven walk through a sunlit past. It's a sweet, comforting escape.