If you’re looking for a book that feels like a warm cup of tea and a chat with a clever friend, let me introduce you to Penelope. Penelope's Experiences in Scotland follows our sharp-tongued American heroine as she trades her familiar life for a summer in a quaint Scottish village. She plans to write, observe, and keep to herself. The village, however, has other plans.

The Story

The plot is simple and charming. Penelope rents a cottage, expecting peace. Instead, she’s quickly adopted by her neighbors. There’s the formidable housekeeper who rules the kitchen, the shy minister with a hidden passion for poetry, and a whole cast of villagers who are endlessly curious about their new American resident. The story unfolds through her letters and journal entries as she navigates hilarious misunderstandings, local traditions, and the gentle, persistent way this community pulls her into its fold. There’s no grand villain or epic quest—just the quiet, funny battle between a woman who values her independence and a place that values connection above all else.

Why You Should Read It

I fell in love with Penelope’s voice. She’s observant, a little sarcastic, but ultimately kind-hearted. Kate Douglas Wiggin (who also wrote Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm) has a gift for creating characters that feel real. You’ll laugh at Penelope’s fish-out-of-water moments and nod in recognition as her defenses slowly melt away. The book is really about the unexpected ways we find home and the joy of being truly seen by a new group of friends.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect comfort read. It’s for anyone who loves character-driven stories, gentle humor, and a strong sense of place. If you enjoy authors like L.M. Montgomery or Jan Karon, you’ll feel right at home here. It’s a short, sweet escape to a simpler time that leaves you smiling.