Author

Harold L. (Harold Leland) Goodwin

1914-1990

Harold L. (Harold Leland) Goodwin (1914-1990) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.

Subjects

Books by Harold L. (Harold Leland) Goodwin

Rip Foster Rides the Gray Planet

"Rip Foster Rides the Gray Planet" by Harold L. Goodwin is a young adult science fiction novel published in 1952. Newly commissioned Planeteer Lieutenant Rip Foster faces his first major assignment: retrieve a valuable thorium asteroid from the asteroid belt and deliver it to Earth. Already dealing with inter-service tensions aboard his Space Force vessel, Foster must now contend with hostile agents from the Consolidation of Peoples Governments who want the asteroid for themselves. A Cold War-era space adventure of rivalry, duty, and high-stakes competition.

The Egyptian Cat Mystery: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Egyptian Cat Mystery: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by John Blaine is a science-adventure novel written in the early 1960s. The book follows young characters Rick Brant and his friend Scotty as they embark on an exciting journey that takes them to Egypt, where they become embroiled in a web of mystery surrounding an Egyptian cat statue. This adventure is set against a backdrop of scientific exploration, as Rick's father, Dr. Hartson Brant, and his colleague Parnell Winston engage in a project related to radio astronomy. The opening portion of the book introduces readers to Rick and Scotty as they prepare for a trip to Cairo, where a new radio telescope has been established. They receive a call to action from Winston, prompting excitement about their journey. Upon their arrival, the boys interact with various characters, including Dr. Abdel Kerama and Dr. Hakim Farid, who express the challenges they face concerning peculiar signals detected by the telescope. Rick is soon drawn into a mystery when he volunteers to deliver a plastic cat statue from a merchant named Bartouki, only to realize that there's more at stake than a simple delivery when they find themselves pursued by suspicious figures. As the narrative unfolds, the mystery deepens, and the boys' determination to uncover the truth about the cat's importance takes shape, setting the stage for thrilling encounters and scientific inquiries.

The Flying Stingaree: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Flying Stingaree: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by Harold L. Goodwin is a science-adventure novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around Rick Brant, a curious and scientifically-minded teenager, who embarks on an exploration of the mysterious flying stingaree spotted over Chesapeake Bay, alongside his friend Don Scott and an intelligence agent named Steve Ames. As they delve into the enigma, they stumble upon local legends and the disappearance of a man presumed taken by this otherworldly creature, leading to a thrilling investigation. The opening of "The Flying Stingaree" introduces the protagonists as they navigate the waters of Chesapeake Bay in a houseboat named the "Spindrift". Caught in a storm, Rick and Scotty anchor in a cove where they witness a mysterious flying object resembling a stingray. This encounter piques their scientific curiosity, prompting them to investigate further, following clues that suggest a connection to recent abduction stories in the area. Their journey sets the stage for a suspenseful quest to uncover the truth behind the sightings, giving readers a taste of adventure filled with intriguing local lore and the promise of high-voltage excitement.

The Electronic Mind Reader: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Electronic Mind Reader: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by John Blaine is a fiction novel likely written in the mid-20th century. This adventurous tale follows Rick Brant and his friends, particularly Barby and Scotty, as they engage with science and intrigue on their private island of Spindrift. The plot hints at a clever blend of mystery and scientific ingenuity, as Rick concocts a plan involving a “Megabuck Mob” to manipulate quiz shows using hidden technology, setting the stage for adventures that intertwine with national security issues and unexpected guests. At the start of the story, readers are introduced to Rick Brant, who is lounging in his dad's library with his friends as they watch a quiz show. Inspired by the contestants’ struggles, Rick begins to brainstorm a scheme that involves utilizing radio technology and clever disguises to cheat the quiz show system. Meanwhile, the arrival of a Coast Guard officer hints at larger, potentially dangerous matters at play on the island, which immediately piques the characters’ interests. Their discussions transition from lighthearted banter about the quiz show to serious implications of espionage and intrigue as they explore the intersection of their scientific endeavors and unexpected challenges ahead.

The Caves of Fear: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Caves of Fear: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by Harold L. Goodwin is a fictional science-adventure novel likely written in the early 1950s. The book follows the adventures of a teenage boy named Rick Brant and his best friend, Scotty, as they navigate new challenges and intrigues surrounding a mysterious cipher sent by their friend Chahda from Singapore. With science and adventure intertwined, this narrative promises to engage readers who enjoy exploration, mystery, and youthful heroism. The beginning of the story sets the stage on Spindrift Island, where Rick is unsettled by recent changes, including the arrival of new scientists, and an intriguing cable with coded messages from Chahda. As Rick and Scotty try to decode the message, they learn about Chahda's potential danger and the mysterious heavy water that might be involved. With their father and another scientist also involved, the opening chapters build tension and intrigue, leading the characters to Hong Kong and the pursuit of answers amidst a backdrop of danger and adventure. The tone is light-hearted yet suspenseful, appealing to an audience eager for a science-themed escapade.

The Wailing Octopus: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Wailing Octopus: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by John Blaine is a science-adventure novel written in the mid-20th century. The book follows the young protagonist, Rick Brant, and his friend Don Scott as they embark on a treasure-hunting expedition in the Caribbean, specifically to the mysterious Clipper Cay, in search of a legendary golden statue lost in the wreck of a pirate ship. The story blends elements of adventure, archaeology, and science fiction, promising an engaging narrative for readers who enjoy exciting explorations in exotic settings. The opening of the book introduces Rick and Scotty aboard a small plane headed to Clipper Cay, where they are excited about the prospect of underwater exploration. The two boys banter about the legitimacy of their destination and express enthusiasm for what lies ahead, with Rick eager to discover potential artifacts related to the island's pirate history. The narrative establishes their camaraderie with a group of scientists, emphasizing their roles as budding adventurers equipped with diving gear. As they prepare for their journey, hints at potential dangers and mysteries surface, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure as they aim to unravel the secrets of their destination.

Smugglers' Reef: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"Smugglers' Reef: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by Harold L. Goodwin is a fictional novel written in the mid-20th century. The story follows Rick Brant, a young boy with a passion for adventure and science, as he navigates the mysteries surrounding his home on Spindrift Island, particularly focusing on the wreck of a trawler at Smugglers' Reef and the enigmatic new inhabitants of the nearby Creek House. Along with his friends, Rick is drawn into a thrilling web of intrigue involving potential smuggling operations and danger lurking just beneath the surface of what appears to be an ordinary fishing community. The opening of the book introduces us to Rick and his friends as they engage in light-hearted banter about their past adventures while preparing for a potential new one. As Rick is called into action to photograph a trawler that has run aground, hints of tension and mystery begin to unfold, particularly surrounding the actions of the local fisherman, Tom Tyler, and the peculiar behavior of the Kelso family, who have recently taken residence at the Creek House. The scene sets the stage for Rick’s exploration into the possible connection between the wreck and the Kelsos, establishing a blend of humor, youthful camaraderie, and budding adventure that promises more excitement to come.

The Golden Skull: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Golden Skull: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by Harold L. Goodwin is a novel written in the mid-20th century. The story follows the adventures of Rick Brant and his friends as they embark on a quest in the Philippines to discover the legendary golden skull linked to the Ifugao culture, all while dealing with mysterious enemies and the dangers of the region. The characters include Rick, his companion Scotty, and the archaeologist Dr. Anthony Briotti, providing a rich blend of scientific exploration and thrilling action. The opening of the story finds Rick Brant and Don Scott aboard the freighter "Asiatic Dream", where they are enjoying a game of three-dimensional chess under the oppressive tropical heat. The atmosphere shifts dramatically when they encounter a mysterious assailant aboard the ship, suggesting trouble awaits in their quest to uncover the fabled golden skull. As they arrive in Manila, the stakes are raised with warnings from locals and unexpected encounters with dubious characters, alluding to potential threats as they prepare for their expedition into the mountainous regions that could lead them to ancient treasures and perilous situations. The narrative establishes a thrilling tone, engaging readers with the promise of adventure and intrigue in the backdrop of Filipino culture and history.

The Pirates of Shan: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Pirates of Shan: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by John Blaine is a science-adventure novel written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around young adventurer Rick Brant and his close friend Scotty as they embark on a mission to rescue two missing scientists from the Spindrift Scientific Foundation, who have mysteriously disappeared during an expedition in the Sulu Sea. As the boys navigate through thrilling and dangerous circumstances, they uncover a shadowy group tied to the enigmatic "Pirates of Shan." The opening of the novel introduces Rick Brant and his friend Scotty as they deal with the anxiety of their fathers, particularly Rick's scientist father, concerning the unexplained absence of colleagues Dr. Shannon and Dr. Briotti. As concerns mount, Colonel Rojas joins the investigation, and the boys eagerly get involved in the search mission, demonstrating their resourcefulness and bravery. With the help of their Hindu friend, Chahda, and scientific experts, they aim to unravel the mystery behind the scientists' disappearance and its connection to a larger threat. The narrative sets the stage for an adventurous pursuit, filled with intrigue, danger, and a hint of the supernatural.

The Blue Ghost Mystery: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Blue Ghost Mystery: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by Harold L. Goodwin is a science-adventure novel written in the early 1960s. The story follows a young boy named Rick Brant, along with his friend Scotty and sister Barbara, as they embark on an unexpected journey to investigate the mysterious appearances of a ghost rumored to haunt their surroundings in Virginia. The blend of science, youthful curiosity, and supernatural intrigue sets the stage for an exciting and captivating adventure. The opening of the book introduces readers to Rick Brant, a budding scientist with a passion for microscopy, who receives a spooky invitation from his sister Barby urging him to come witness a ghost sighting. As Rick and Scotty prepare to fly to Virginia, they learn about the legendary Blue Ghost, which is tied to a historical love story from the Civil War era. After they arrive, they are captivated by the tale of Captain Seth Costin, who met a tragic fate while trying to meet his love at an old mine. However, the boys maintain their skepticism about ghosts, particularly after witnessing the eerie mist that precedes a ghostly apparition. Rick is motivated to investigate further, using scientific methods and explorations into the mine and surrounding areas, all while trying to unravel the mystery behind the ghost and its relation to past events, ultimately propelling the story into an engaging blend of adventure and discovery.

The Scarlet Lake Mystery: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Scarlet Lake Mystery: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by Harold L. Goodwin is a fiction novel written in the late 20th century. It follows the adventures of a young protagonist, Rick Brant, and his friends as they embark on a thrilling mission involving rocket launches and an enigmatic enemy known as the "Earthman." The book combines elements of science and adventure as the characters navigate challenges related to their work at a secretive rocket base and uncover a mystery that threatens their projects. The opening of the novel introduces Rick and his friends, Scotty and Barby, on Spindrift Island as they practice using a sling while waiting for Dr. Gordon, who has arrived from a rocket experimental station. Rick learns about a special assignment involving a secret government project at a rocket base, where sabotage has been occurring. Dr. Gordon explains the mysterious connection to someone referred to as the "Earthman" after a rocket launch that went awry. The trio is eager to participate and work undercover at the Scarlet Lake base to uncover the identity of the saboteur, setting the stage for an exciting and dangerous adventure filled with high-tech intrigue and personal growth.

The Flaming Mountain: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story

"The Flaming Mountain: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by Harold L. Goodwin is a novel written in the early 1960s. This adventure story revolves around the teenage protagonist, Rick Brant, and his friend, Scotty, as they join forces with scientists to tackle the impending eruption of the volcano El Viejo on the island of San Luz. The narrative promises a blend of scientific intrigue, danger, and the challenge of battling nature's catastrophic forces. At the start of the story, Rick and Scotty work on a detailed scale model of San Luz for a significant meeting at the Spindrift Scientific Foundation, led by Rick's father, Dr. Hartson Brant. Their excitement heightens when they learn there is a potential volcanic eruption threatening the small island, where many residents, driven by superstition, are unaware of the imminent danger. As the plot unfolds, the team of scientists discovers increasing geological activity and the possibility of using scientific tactics, including nuclear options, to avert disaster. The opening chapters lay the groundwork for a suspenseful and action-packed adventure, filled with scientific exploration and the urgency to save lives before the volcano erupts.

Rip Foster in Ride the Gray Planet

"Rip Foster in Ride the Gray Planet" by Harold L. Goodwin is a young adult science fiction novel published in 1952. Freshly commissioned Lieutenant Rip Foster must navigate inter-service rivalry while undertaking a dangerous mission: retrieve a pure thorium asteroid from the asteroid belt and bring it to Earth. But he's not alone in this quest. Enemy agents from the Consolidation of Peoples Governments will stop at nothing to seize control of this valuable resource first.