The Ghost of the Jangling Keys

by Penelope Torribio

Ten-year-old Charles Dayton Stratton, a young writer, is sent away from his third-story room overlooking the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean to a boarding school in France, the Château du Mont. The moment he arrives, locked behind a stone wall topped with barbed wire, Charles makes plans to escape. However, due to a mysterious jangle of keys behind a locked gate, a suspicious all-around man, a black cat, a silver box, a Bedouin prince, a mathematical genius, a $500 check, and The Ghost of the Jangling Keys, escape must be postponed. Mysteries must be solved. Adventure is unavoidable.

Writing teacher Penelope Torribio introduces her first Edu-Tainment novel, designed not only to entertain and delight but also to help readers develop the ability to Think Like Writers. Charles guides readers on a journey of creativity, curiosity, and self-expression, demonstrating how young writers can cultivate their imagination while developing their skills.

337 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 31, 2024

Reviews

[Penelope Torribio]

Charles Stratton, a troubled ten-year-old, is sent to a boys’ school in France. He is determined to run away, but before he does, he must solve several mysteries: What is in the box hidden in the stone wall that surrounds the school, and who or what is the Ghost of the Jangling Keys? He seeks help from his roommate, David, and Jacques, the timid all-around man at the Chateau Du Mont. The boys are on a coming-of-age journey. While Jacques is on a hero’s journey of his own, where he must face ghosts from his past. And just when this mystery is solved, another raises a mummy's hand. It MG novel, loved by adults, an Edu-Tainment novel that models how a young person develops his ability to THINK LIKE A WRITER.

[Julia Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliantly haunting tale! The Ghost of the Jangling Keys had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Torribio’s storytelling weaves mystery and history seamlessly.

[Susan Cole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn’t put this book down! The characters are so vivid, and the eerie atmosphere keeps you fully immersed. Truly a masterpiece of suspense and intrigue.

[Evelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Torribio has a gift for creating suspense that lingers long after the last page. The mix of history, mystery, and the supernatural makes this a must-read.

[Lena G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first chapter, I was captivated. The Ghost of the Jangling Keys is full of twists I didn’t see coming. Highly recommend for fans of ghost stories and historical mysteries.

[Elma C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, and emotional depth. Penelope Torribio’s writing is both gripping and beautiful.

[James I. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A chillingly beautiful story! I loved how the author brought the past to life while keeping the tension high. One of the best ghostly tales I’ve read this year.

[Norman D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was completely absorbed! The characters feel real, the plot is intricate, and the suspense is perfectly paced. Torribio knows how to keep readers hooked.

[Gary R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love mysteries with a supernatural twist, this book is for you. The Ghost of the Jangling Keys is clever, eerie, and unforgettable.

[Henrietta H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Torribio’s writing is atmospheric and immersive. I felt like I was right there, unraveling the secrets alongside the characters. Truly engaging!

[Florence B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute page-turner! The Ghost of the Jangling Keys combines history, suspense, and a hint of the supernatural in a way that’s incredibly compelling.

[Clarice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book exceeded my expectations! The plot is smart, the pacing is perfect, and the ghostly elements are handled brilliantly. Highly recommend!

[Jeannie J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A suspenseful journey from beginning to end. I loved how Torribio wove tension, mystery, and emotion together seamlessly. One of my favorites this year.

[John B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ghost of the Jangling Keys is haunting in the best way possible. Every chapter had me eager to uncover the next clue. Fantastic storytelling!

[Bridgett P. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Penelope Torribio has delivered a gripping ghost story with richly developed characters and an unpredictable plot. I can’t wait to read more from her.

[Tracy H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unforgettable read! The Ghost of the Jangling Keys is eerie, thrilling, and emotionally resonant. Torribio’s writing stays with you long after the last page.