Author
Victor Appleton
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Books by Victor Appleton
Tom Swift and his big dirigible : $b or, Adventures over the forest of fire
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Tom Swift and His Electric Rifle; Or, Daring Adventures in Elephant Land
"Tom Swift and His Electric Rifle; Or, Daring Adventures in Elephant Land" by Victor Appleton is a young adult novel published in 1911. When young inventor Tom Swift perfects his electric rifle—a weapon that fires bolts of electricity—he embarks on an African safari that becomes far more dangerous than expected. Beyond hunting elephants for ivory, Tom and his companions must rescue friends held captive by hostile tribes. The novel is notable for inspiring the name of the Taser, a non-lethal weapon developed sixty years later.
Tom Swift in the Land of Wonders; Or, The Underground Search for the Idol of Gold
"Tom Swift in the Land of Wonders; Or, The Underground Search for the Idol of Gold" is Volume 20 in the Tom Swift novel series published by Grosset & Dunlap. When Professor Bumper discovers documents pointing to the lost city of Kurzon deep in Honduras—and its legendary golden idol—he invites Tom Swift along. But a rival professor threatens both the expedition and Tom's relationship with his sweetheart Mary Nestor. Driven by envy rather than adventure, Tom must race to Honduras to prevent his rival from claiming both the treasure and Mary's heart.
Tom Swift and His Sky Racer; Or, The Quickest Flight on Record
"Tom Swift and His Sky Racer; Or, The Quickest Flight on Record" by Victor Appleton is a young adult adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Tom Swift, a young inventor enthusiastic about aviation, who is challenged to build a new aeroplane for a prize competition. The narrative sets the stage for Tom’s determination to create a fast and innovative aircraft called the Humming-Bird, particularly in light of previous setbacks, including a rival entry from the notorious bully Andy Foger. The opening of the book introduces Tom Swift as he encounters Mr. Gunmore from the Eagle Park Aviation Association, who invites him to compete in a significant aviation meet. After some deliberation, Tom decides to accept the challenge, igniting his inventive spirit. As he plans for the aeroplane, a subplot unfolds involving Andy Foger's suspicious activities, suggesting that he may have stolen Tom's plans. This tension builds as Tom faces challenges not just in building the aeroplane, but also in contending with potential sabotage from his rival. The chapters hint at a thrilling blend of invention, competition, and intrigue as Tom strives to navigate these obstacles while preparing for the big race.
Tom Swift and His Wizard Camera; Or, Thrilling Adventures While Taking Moving Pictures
"Tom Swift and His Wizard Camera" by Victor Appleton is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. This adventure story features the young inventor Tom Swift, who receives a curious offer from a moving picture promoter, Mr. Period. Tom is tasked with creating an innovative, electric moving picture camera that can capture thrilling scenes in exotic locations, which sets the stage for a series of exciting adventures. The opening of the book introduces Tom in his workshop, where he is approached by a mysterious visitor with a pressing business matter. Koku, Tom's giant servant, keeps a protective watch over their interaction. As Tom learns of the strange request for a new camera to document wild adventures, he contemplates the associated dangers and complexities. The narrative further reveals Tom's background, including past exploits with various inventions, and hints at trouble when rival promoters attempt to sway him from his commitment to Mr. Period. Overall, the beginning sets up a thrilling premise centered around invention, exploration, and the challenges of maintaining integrity amidst competition.
Tom Swift and His Aerial Warship; Or, The Naval Terror of the Seas
"Tom Swift and His Aerial Warship; Or, The Naval Terror of the Seas" by Victor Appleton is a novel written in 1915. When Tom Swift invites a Navy lieutenant to review his massive military airship, he dismisses warnings of a plot against him. But deliberate sabotage—a fire in his explosives shed—proves someone wants to stop his innovations. As World War I rages in Europe, foreign spies hijack Tom's revolutionary aerial warship, equipped with specially-mounted cannons and a groundbreaking recoil system. Can Tom recover his stolen invention before it falls into enemy hands?
Tom Swift and His Air Scout; Or, Uncle Sam's Mastery of the Sky
"Tom Swift and His Air Scout; Or, Uncle Sam's Mastery of the Sky" by Victor Appleton is a novel published as Volume 22 in the original Tom Swift series. During World War I, young inventor Tom Swift pursues a revolutionary project: creating a completely silent airship for military reconnaissance. Inspired by his inability to communicate with Mary Nestor during a flight, Tom develops this technology for the war effort. But when rival manufacturers pressure him to join their company, his refusal triggers dangerous consequences—including an unexpected kidnapping.
Tom Swift Among the Fire Fighters; Or, Battling with Flames from the Air
"Tom Swift Among the Fire Fighters; Or, Battling with Flames from the Air" by Victor Appleton is a novel published as Volume 24 in the original Tom Swift series. When a devastating fire erupts at a fireworks factory, Tom Swift rescues a chemist who has lost his precious dye formula. Witnessing the blaze inspires Tom to revolutionize firefighting itself, developing new chemical suppressants and an airborne delivery system to battle fires from above, especially in towering skyscrapers where traditional methods fail.
Tom Swift and His Submarine Boat; Or, Under the Ocean for Sunken Treasure
"Tom Swift and His Submarine Boat; Or, Under the Ocean for Sunken Treasure" by Victor Appleton is a novel published by Grosset & Dunlap. When Tom learns of a sunken ship carrying $300,000 in gold bullion off Uruguay's coast, he convinces his father to pursue the treasure instead of competing for a government prize. But a rival submarine follows close behind, determined to steal the fortune. Tom must navigate treacherous waters, escape foreign captivity, and dive to extreme depths to claim the sunken treasure first.
Tom Swift and His Electric Runabout; Or, The Speediest Car on the Road
"Tom Swift and His Electric Runabout; Or, The Speediest Car on the Road" by Appleton is the fifth volume in the original Tom Swift novel series. Young inventor Tom Swift prepares to race his revolutionary electric car, powered by a groundbreaking battery design. But days before the 500-mile competition, he uncovers a criminal conspiracy threatening to destroy the local bank and bankrupt his family. Tom must stop the scheme and catch the culprits before testing his purple speedster against America's finest drivers and fastest cars.
Tom Swift and His Giant Cannon; Or, The Longest Shots on Record
"Tom Swift and His Giant Cannon; Or, The Longest Shots on Record" by Victor Appleton is a children’s adventure novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around the extraordinary young inventor, Tom Swift, as he embarks on a daring quest to create the largest cannon ever built. The novel kicks off with an exciting mix of adventure and invention, highlighting Tom's ingenuity and determination to ensure the safety of the Panama Canal with his innovative weaponry. The opening of the book presents a lively scene where Tom's father, Mr. Swift, discusses a dubious investment proposal with an old acquaintance, Alec Peterson, regarding a lost opal mine. Amidst this business conversation, a frantic call for help arises when Tom finds himself in a perilous situation in his airship, entangled with a dangerous live wire. Thankfully, he is rescued by Peterson, which leads Mr. Swift to reconsider investing in the opal mine venture. Tom's character is further developed as he ponders his ambition to design a giant cannon for national defense, which he is keen to demonstrate at an upcoming government test for a similar cannon. This blend of high-stakes engineering, friendship, and the thrill of invention sets the stage for what promises to be a riveting adventure.
Tom Swift Among the Diamond Makers; Or, The Secret of Phantom Mountain
"Tom Swift Among the Diamond Makers; Or, The Secret of Phantom Mountain" by Victor Appleton is a novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story follows Tom Swift, a young inventor known for his ingenuity and adventurous spirit, as he embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets behind diamond-making alongside his eccentric mentor, Mr. Barcoe Jenks. Throughout the narrative, Tom must confront various challenges and antagonists while exploring a mysterious location referred to as Phantom Mountain. The opening of the book introduces Tom as he visits a jeweler, contemplating a diamond purchase for a special someone, a subplot that hints at his romantic inclination. A sudden interruption by a suspicious character prompts a chase that reveals the youthful inventor's courage. He later encounters Mr. Jenks, who claims to know how to create diamonds and seeks Tom’s help in his quest. After determining the authenticity of some diamonds given by Mr. Jenks, Tom agrees to assist him in seeking Phantom Mountain. The excitement escalates as they prepare to journey into the unknown, layering the narrative with themes of discovery, danger, and the unearthing of secrets. The vibe suggests an adventurous spirit combined with friendship, typical of classic children's adventure literature.
Tom Swift in the Caves of Ice, or, the Wreck of the Airship
"Tom Swift in the Caves of Ice, or, The Wreck of the Airship" by Victor Appleton is a juvenile adventure novel written during the early 20th century. The book follows the intrepid young inventor Tom Swift as he navigates the challenges of building and piloting his various airships, including a notable attempt to reach a legendary gold valley in Alaska. Accompanied by his friends and faced with rivals, Tom's adventures intertwine themes of invention, exploration, and youthful courage. The opening of the story introduces Tom Swift and his loyal helper, Eradicate Sampson, preparing for a flight in Tom's latest monoplane, the Butterfly. Tom's conversation with Eradicate highlights the latter's fear of flying, yet he is eventually coaxed into experiencing the aircraft. As they take off, they encounter mechanical troubles, setting the stage for Tom's innovative problem-solving skills. The narrative quickly shifts to reveal a letter from a miner named Abe Abercrombie, which intrigues Tom and hints at future adventures. The introduction of rivals, such as Andy Foger, adds tension as Tom prepares for a quest that promises excitement and challenges ahead.
Tom Swift and His Undersea Search; Or, the Treasure on the Floor of the Atlantic
"Tom Swift and His Undersea Search; Or, the Treasure on the Floor of the Atlantic" by Victor Appleton is Volume 23 in the original Tom Swift novel series. When a mysterious Mr. Hardley offers Tom a fortune to recover sunken gold from a revolutionary ship, the young inventor eagerly agrees. But Tom soon discovers his partner is a notorious con-artist who has swindled the family of his sweetheart's relative. Now Tom must decide whether to abandon the expedition or dive deep to recover both treasure and honor.
Tom Swift in Captivity, Or, A Daring Escape By Airship
"Tom Swift in Captivity, Or, A Daring Escape by Airship" by Victor Appleton is an adventurous novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows Tom Swift, a young inventor known for his various escapades with technological marvels, as he embarks on a quest in search of giants in a mysterious land. Accompanied by his loyal friend Ned Newton and the eccentric Mr. Damon, Tom's adventure quickly promises excitement as they navigate the challenges of South America while aiming to rescue a lost circus man. At the start of the narrative, Tom Swift expresses his restlessness after a period of inactivity following various thrilling adventures, prompting him to take a joyride in his aeroplane. His plans, however, are interrupted by Mr. Damon, who presents an intriguing proposition: to capture a giant from a faraway land. As Tom, Ned, and Mr. Damon leap into preparations, they address practical matters such as assembling supplies and hiring native drivers for their expedition. The beginning sets a lively tone, hinting at impending perils and the excitement of a journey filled with the unknown, including encounters with native tribes and wildlife as they strive to achieve their improbable goal.
Tom Swift and His Airship
"Tom Swift and His Airship" by Victor Appleton is a novel in the original Tom Swift series. Young inventor Tom Swift completes the Red Cloud, a revolutionary hybrid airship combining dirigible and airplane technology. Just as he prepares for a cross-country test flight, the Shopton bank is robbed and Tom becomes the prime suspect. Now airborne and branded a fugitive, he must race back home to clear his name while evading those who would shoot him down.
Tom Swift and His War Tank; Or, Doing His Bit for Uncle Sam
"Tom Swift and His War Tank; Or, Doing His Bit for Uncle Sam" by Victor Appleton is a novel published as Volume 21 in the original Tom Swift series. When America enters World War I, young inventor Tom Swift faces accusations of being a slacker while his friends enlist and sell liberty bonds. In truth, Tom is secretly developing an advanced war tank with revolutionary capabilities for the Allied forces. Working in complete secrecy, he must protect his invention from German spies while proving his patriotism to a doubting public.
Tom Swift and His Great Searchlight; or, on the border for Uncle Sam
"Tom Swift and His Great Searchlight; or, On the Border for Uncle Sam" by Victor Appleton is a children's adventure novel written during the early 20th century. The story follows the young inventor Tom Swift, who has recently perfected a noiseless airship motor, as he becomes embroiled in a mystery involving airship smugglers operating between Canada and the United States. The opening chapters introduce Tom's friends, including Ned and the giant Koku, as well as the antagonistic Andy Foger, setting the stage for an exciting adventure filled with invention and intrigue. The beginning of the novel establishes Tom Swift's world, where he is busy preparing his latest inventions while grappling with the return of his rival Andy Foger. When the boys discover that smugglers may be using airships to transport illegal goods and that their town of Shopton could be connected to these activities, they become entwined in a government investigation led by customs agent Mr. Whitford. The plot thickens as Tom decides to take on the challenge of capturing these smugglers, aided by his powerful new searchlight. As he experiments with the light and plans his mission to the Canadian border, the stage is set for a thrilling escapade fueled by invention, friendship, and possibly danger.
Tom Swift and His Electric Locomotive; Or, Two Miles a Minute on the Rails
"Tom Swift and His Electric Locomotive; Or, Two Miles a Minute on the Rails" by Victor Appleton is a novel published as Volume 25 in the original Tom Swift series. When railroad president Richard Bartholomew faces bankruptcy, he contracts Tom Swift to build a revolutionary electric locomotive capable of reaching 120 miles per hour. But the ruthless owner of a competing railroad will stop at nothing to sabotage the project. Tom and his friends face hired thugs and life-threatening attacks as they race to complete the massive Hercules 0001 locomotive.
Tom Swift and His Photo Telephone or the Picture That Saved a Fortune
"Tom Swift and His Photo Telephone or the Picture That Saved a Fortune" by Appleton is a novel from the original Tom Swift series. When Tom develops a revolutionary photo telephone against his father's doubts, he faces threats from con-artist Shallock Peters, who wants control of Tom's inventions. As financial troubles plague his friend Mr. Damon, a stolen airship and mysterious disappearance complicate matters. Can Tom perfect his invention in time to save a fortune?
Tom Swift and His Motor-Cycle; Or, Fun and Adventures on the Road
"Tom Swift and His Motor-Cycle; Or, Fun and Adventures on the Road" by Appleton is a novel published by Grosset & Dunlap as the first volume in the original Tom Swift series. Young inventor Tom Swift modifies his newly purchased motorcycle and volunteers to deliver his father's revolutionary turbine design plans across country. Unaware of dangerous corporate investors plotting to steal the invention, Tom falls into their trap and must face the greatest peril of his life while racing to recover the stolen blueprints.
Tom Swift in the City of Gold; Or, Marvelous Adventures Underground
"Tom Swift in the City of Gold; Or, Marvelous Adventures Underground" by Appleton is a novel published as Volume 11 in the original Tom Swift series. When Tom receives word of a legendary underground city filled with gold treasures hidden deep in Mexico, he sets off on a daring expedition. But he's not alone in the quest—his rival Andy Foger, a band of scheming Mexicans, and mysterious Head Hunters all compete for the ancient riches. Underground dangers and accidental entrapment threaten the adventure at every turn.
Tom Swift and His Big Tunnel; Or, The Hidden City of the Andes
"Tom Swift and His Big Tunnel; Or, The Hidden City of the Andes" by Victor Appleton is Volume 19 in the original Tom Swift novel series published by Grosset & Dunlap. When a construction company faces impossible rock while blasting a tunnel through a Peruvian mountain, they turn to young inventor Tom Swift for help. Tom's journey to Peru intertwines with his friend Mr. Damon's business troubles and a professor's quest to find a lost city, leading to unexpected discoveries in the Andes.
Tom Swift and His Air Glider; Or, Seeking the Platinum Treasure
"Tom Swift and His Air Glider; Or, Seeking the Platinum Treasure" by Victor Appleton is a juvenile adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the young inventor Tom Swift, as he embarks on an exciting journey involving engineering challenges, the discovery of a valuable resource, and the rescue of a friend in peril. At the start of the story, Tom Swift and his friend Ned Newton prepare to test a newly revamped airship, which Tom has upgraded to enhance its speed and performance. However, during the test flight, a breakdown leads them to encounter Mr. Ivan Petrofsky, a Russian exile who possesses valuable platinum material and seeks to rescue his brother from a Siberian prison. This chance meeting sets off a thrilling plot where Tom decides to build a unique air glider capable of soaring through Siberia’s harsh winds, ultimately aiming to find both the lost platinum mine and rescue Mr. Petrofsky’s brother from the clutches of authorities. The opening chapters establish the inventive spirit of Tom and the high-stake adventure to come, engaging readers with a blend of engineering and action.