The Key House – Book Review for Middle Schoolers
Oh, the pure joy of curling up with a story that sweeps you away from the very first page! That’s exactly what happened when I opened The Key House, the first book in Mike Curtis’ Noland Kids Adventure Series (it’s a series of 4 books). Note: This is a book review for middle schoolers.

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A Page-Turner / Book Review for Middle Schoolers
I’ll admit—I haven’t picked up a middle school grade fiction book in quite some time. But when I was invited to review The Key House, I couldn’t resist. And let me tell you, I truly enjoyed it. I read it in less than 24 hours. That’s how good it is!
From the very first chapter, this story grabs hold of your imagination. It’s packed with adventure, mystery, and just the right touch of suspense to keep young readers hooked. If you’re looking for a book that will make your child say, “Just one more chapter!”—this is it.
Meet the Noland Brothers
The heart of the story lies with two brothers whose family has just moved into a house with a fascinating past. The house was once owned by their Great-Great Grandfather, the home is full of secrets—hidden passageways, mysterious rooms, and whispers from the townspeople that don’t quite match the family’s glowing memories of him.
As the boys explore the home and the area, they uncover truths that will change the way they see their family’s history. It’s the kind of adventure that feels both timeless and fresh, reminding me of the books I grew up loving—like the Hardy Boys and Bobbsey Twins—but with a modern twist that today’s kids will connect with.
Faith Woven Into the Adventure
What makes The Key House of the Noland Kids Adventure Series stand out is how naturally it weaves in conversations about God’s love. The gospel is presented in a way that middle schoolers can understand and relate to, offering encouragement and gentle guidance right alongside the thrills of the adventure.
Why I Recommend It
As someone who grew up on classic mystery and adventure series, I can’t wait to introduce my grandchildren to the Noland Kids Adventure Series when they’re a little older. I know they’ll fall in love with the characters and the excitement just as much as I did.
If I were giving this book a star rating, I’d go well beyond 10 stars. It’s that good.
Final Thoughts
If you know a middle-schooler—or even a younger reader ready for a challenge—The Key House is a gift worth giving. It’s an outstanding page-turner that entertains, inspires, and plants seeds of faith along the way.
Go ahead and order The Key House today. I have no doubt your child will be swept up in the adventure and ask for the next book in the series before they’ve even finished the last page.
The next 3 books in the Noland Kids Adventure series are also available, so you can get them all at one time.
Vol 2 The Lost City of Light
Vol 3 The Legend of the Craftsman King
Vol 4 The Secret of Paradise Cove
I promise to review an adult book next. I’ll be getting the full series for my grandson and I wanted to share this Book Review for Middle Schoolers just because it is such an awesome series and I know my readers have children and grandchildren too.
