I enjoyed this book a lot, but was disappointed that only Grandma Dowdel is in it. The story which takes place in 1958 centers around a new family who moves into the house next to Grandma Dowdel. The father of the family happens to be a Methodist preacher who has come to take over the very dilapidated Church in town. The story is told by 12 year old Bob, who is the middle child. Grandma Dowdel helps the family adjust to life in a small town after living in Terre Haute, IN. Not my favorite of this series, but still an enjoyable read.