Flames in the City: A Tale of the War of 1812 cover

Flames in the City: A Tale of the War of 1812

Author: Ransom, Candice

Reading Metrics

Grade Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)
Book Level 3.7
Points 2.0
Fiction/Nonfiction Fiction
Word Count 13268
Points per Word 0.000151
Page Count 110
Points per Page 0.018182
Series Time Spies

Description

Three siblings Mattie, Alex, and Sophie Chapman discover a mysterious spyglass that lets them travel back to the War of 1812. They find themselves in Washington, D.C., as British forces close in, joining Dolley Madison to help protect the city and its people. The children must use courage and quick thinking to navigate the dangers of the wartime capital while keeping their secret safe. The story mixes adventure, history, and a hint of magic as they work to make a difference in a critical moment of American history.

Quick Summary

The story drops three siblings right into the heart of Washington, D.C. during the War of 1812, thanks to a nifty magical spyglass that makes history feel like a live-action adventure. Mattie, Alex, and Sophie don't just watch the city burn they jump into the chaos and help Dolley Madison rescue the famous portrait of George Washington, turning a scary moment into a genuinely heroic rescue. It's a quick, fast-paced read that's perfect for kids who love a mix of history and a dash of magic, and it works especially well for reluctant readers who want a book they can finish in a few sittings. The tone balances light humor with some tense moments, so it's fun without being too frightening, and parents will love that it sneaks in real details about the war while keeping the scares kid-friendly. If you've ever enjoyed the Magic Tree House books, you'll find the same blend of time-travel, real-world facts, and a pinch of fantasy here.