
Summary
The Baker Family Adventures series, written by C.R. Hedgcock, is a captivating collection of eight action-packed novels following the adventures of Mr. and Mrs. Baker and their four children: responsible Phil, sensible Abby, daring Andy, and curious Tom. As a Christian homeschooling family, the Bakers often find themselves in thrilling and dangerous situations while striving to help others. Their adventures test their courage, faith, and unity as a family, all while imparting valuable lessons in godliness. Written by Hedgcock as a teenager, the series emphasizes themes such as family togetherness, Christian values, and humility, seamlessly blending suspense, moral lessons, and even educational elements.
Summer of Suspense
What begins as a peaceful summer on the family farm takes a dramatic turn when their haughty cousin Millie and her horse vanish. The Bakers set off on a cross-country mission to rescue her, uncovering the involvement of a notorious jewelry thief along the way.
Peril on Providence Island
While visiting the English countryside for Grandfather Wilson’s 80th birthday, the Bakers hear of a long-lost treasure from an elderly neighbor. Guided by an old diary filled with cryptic Bible verse clues, the family embarks on a treasure hunt across a desolate island.
Riddle of the Ruby Ring
While helping a neighbor clear their farm of snakes, the Baker kids stumble upon a crate containing a mysterious ruby ring. Their efforts to unravel the ring’s secrets lead them into danger, as they face threats tied to a legacy of Old West conflict, endangering their family and neighbors.
The Treacherous Trail
During a family hike, the Bakers encounter an injured hiker who, after being rescued, steals their supplies and disappears. Stranded without provisions or communication, Mr. Baker must lead his family to safety while navigating the wilderness.
Prisoner of the Pyrenees
The Bakers discover a young Catalan girl named Briosa hiding in their barn. She is searching for Jigson, a secret agent who has aided the family in previous adventures but has gone missing. Their quest to find him takes them across the Atlantic, putting them face-to-face with another criminal organization.
Iceland Intrigue
To support Phil, who’s struggling with an invention for a competition, the family travels to Iceland to meet a reclusive, brilliant inventor. There, Phil uncovers a sinister organization with a machine capable of triggering natural disasters, adding yet another perilous challenge for the Bakers.
Hunting in the Highlands
During a vacation in Scotland with their relatives, the Drakes, the Bakers find themselves swept into a strategic, high-stakes treasure hunt across the moors. With Millie by their side, the family races to uncover a hidden message that could influence global events, as a dangerous government weapon falls into the wrong hands.
Rescue in the Rockies
In the series finale, a road trip to Grandma and Grandpa Baker’s Wyoming guest ranch takes an unexpected turn, evolving into a dramatic rescue mission that tests the family one last time.
Reading Level: Ages 8-12
Read Aloud Age: 6+
Mom Thoughts
I’I’ve thoroughly enjoyed reading this series, on my own and as read-alouds with my children. Every book has taken us on an exhilarating journey filled with unexpected twists, gripping mysteries, and heart-pounding suspense. I particularly appreciate how C.R. Hedgcock incorporates Biblical principles, scripture, and lessons about trusting God and submitting to authority throughout the stories. The characters consistently rely on prayer when faced with challenges or danger, modeling a strong faith for readers.
A unique aspect of the series is its focus on family. The children don’t embark on these adventures alone—parents are actively involved. As a homeschooling mom, I also love seeing a relatable, positive portrayal of homeschooling families, free from the typical stereotypes. The Baker Family Adventures series is an engaging, faith-filled collection that blends excitement, family values, and moral lessons into stories that will captivate young readers and their families alike.
Language:
In the first book, cousin Millie is described as snobbish.
Antagonists are occasionally referred to as “thugs.”
Questionable Behaviors:
Millie’s rebellious and snobbish behavior leads her to run away.
She lies about her horse being missing, which later causes the Bakers to doubt her honesty in other situations.
Villains engage in criminal activities such as theft, kidnapping, deceit, and the use of weapons.
Sexual Content:
A wholesome courtship begins between Phil and Briosa in the final book. Their relationship is focused on prayer, seeking God’s guidance, and consulting trusted adults as they explore their future plans and beliefs.
Additional Considerations:
Intense Action and Violence: Every book includes suspenseful, high-stakes scenarios such as kidnappings, confrontations with criminals, being stranded, natural disaster threats, and thefts. While the violence is never graphic and the family always escapes unharmed, the intensity of these scenes—complete with weapons, chase sequences, and physical danger—may be overwhelming for more sensitive readers.
British Terminology: The author’s British background means some words and phrases may be unfamiliar to American readers.
This review is written by Good Book Mom contributor, Rachel. To learn more about Rachel, click HERE.
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At A Glance
Books in Series | Number of Pages Each |
---|---|
8 | About 200-250 |