Hardin's Mountain: War, Mystery, and Growing Friendships in Rural England: 1928-1942

It is 1928 in rural England, near the town of Telsum. Ten-year-old Tommy Hardin lives on his family's 300-acre farm surrounding a large rock called Hardin's Mountain, named after one of Tommy's ancestors, Captain Hardin, who was murdered under bizarre circumstances-a murder that was never solved. Tommy is haunted by this family mystery and its connection to Hardin's Mountain. Then, while standing up to bullies on the first day of school, Tommy meets Jenny Houghton, and they develop a relationship that grows despite several challenges including class differences, distance, and war. They are inspired by exploring the Roman ruins on Hardin's Mountain while hoping to find clues to solve the Captain Hardin mystery. They love riding the Hardins' Arabian horses, including Tommy's special horse, Gentle Giant, a dapple-gray stallion. Later, when Tommy is taught how to fly an airplane by an eccentric World War I ace named Studley Skidmore, Tommy takes Jenny flying. As World War II threatens, Tommy's flying skills grow, and he is determined to do his part to defend his country. Will Tommy and Jenny solve the Captain Hardin mystery, and will Tommy survive the brutal air warfare of World War II?