Ophelia Giddings is at a new school with the ridiculous name of Crumble High. During a drama rehearsal, she attempts to rescue a kitten and puppy, but a ghost sends her back to 1943. She and another student, Cliff Thomas, must solve the mystery of why the school burned back in the 40s, or they won't be able to return to 2013. The action heats up with murder, a subversive group, and, apparently, more than one ghost. To add to the difficulties, both Cliff and Ophelia have to assume the identities of a grandparent, and try to remember not to reveal their real identities. Getting the last piece of evidence without ending up dead becomes a problem and they must use all their ingenuity, and without any of the modern conveniences of 2013.