Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny become trapped in a cabin by an unexpected snowstorm, which turns into an even greater adventure when they help their neighbors, a baker and his family, recover an old family secret.
An African American family of five moves into an enormous house once used as a hiding place for runaway slaves. Mysterious sounds and events as well as the discovery of secret passageways make the family believe they are in grave danger.
A rare Chinese vase is stolen from a pottery shop. Nancy and the owner of the shop feel that locating the "leaning chimney" will provide the clue to the vase and other stolen articles.