Author

Roy Rockwood

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Subjects

Science fictionAdventure and adventurers -- Juvenile fictionAdventure storiesAeronautics -- Juvenile fictionAmazon River Region -- Juvenile fictionJungle survival -- Juvenile fictionJungles -- Juvenile fictionAirships -- Juvenile fictionBoys -- Juvenile fictionSouth America -- Juvenile fictionSubmarines (Ships) -- Juvenile fictionTreasure troves -- Juvenile fictionAction and adventure fictionAir pilots -- Juvenile fictionAirplanes -- Piloting -- Juvenile fictionAnimal attacks -- Juvenile fiction

Books by Roy Rockwood

Bomba the jungle boy : $b or, The old naturalist's secret

"Bomba the Jungle Boy: or, The Old Naturalist's Secret" by Roy Rockwood is an adventure novel published in 1926. The story follows Bomba, a white boy raised in the South American jungle, as he embarks on a quest to uncover the mystery of his origins. Navigating dangerous terrain and encountering various challenges, Bomba must rely on his jungle skills and instincts while grappling with questions of identity and belonging in a world divided between native and white civilization.

Five Thousand Miles Underground; Or, the Mystery of the Centre of the Earth

"Five Thousand Miles Underground; Or, the Mystery of the Centre of the Earth" by Roy Rockwood is an adventurous novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Professor Amos Henderson and his young companions, Mark Sampson and Jack Darrow, as they embark on a daring expedition to explore a mysterious hole in an island, which is believed to lead to the center of the Earth. This journey promises excitement, technological marvels, and perils that challenge their bravery and ingenuity. The opening of the novel introduces us to the characters and the setup for their incredible adventure. Professor Henderson is busy with his new invention, the "Flying Mermaid", a unique craft capable of both air and water travel. The story quickly establishes a lighthearted interaction between Henderson and his assistant, Washington, a comically apprehensive character. As the professor prepares for their upcoming journey into the unknown, he gathers Mark and Jack, who are eager yet cautious about the professor's audacious plans. Through a mix of discussions and preparations, readers gain insights into the friendships and dynamics among the group, setting the stage for thrilling adventures filled with invention, exploration, and typically fantastical challenges as they confront the mysteries that lie beneath the Earth's surface.

Jack North's Treasure Hunt; Or, Daring Adventures in South America

"Jack North's Treasure Hunt; Or, Daring Adventures in South America" by Roy Rockwood is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book follows the journey of the main character, Jack North, who is a determined young man seeking a job in his manufacturing town. As he navigates not just the world of work, but also confronts personal rivalries and adventures, Jack's story unfolds amidst the backdrop of South America, where he ultimately finds himself on a quest for treasure. The beginning of the novel introduces us to Jack North as he races to secure a job at John Fowler & Company, eager to prove himself and fend off his rival, Fret Offut. Their competition escalates into a physical confrontation, which Jack ultimately wins, securing the position he desperately needs. As Jack begins his apprenticeship, he faces challenges not only from Fret, who is determined to undermine him, but also from other setbacks at work. His journey shifts gears when he learns he may have the opportunity to travel to South America for his employer, which promises to change his life and set the stage for more daring adventures ahead.

Bomba the jungle boy on Jaguar Island : $b or, Adrift on the river of mystery

"Bomba the Jungle Boy on Jaguar Island, or Adrift on the River of Mystery" by Roy Rockwood is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows Bomba, a young boy raised in the Amazon jungle, as he faces various dangers and confrontations with headhunters while trying to protect his sick companion, Cody Casson. This adventure explores themes of loyalty, survival, and the search for identity in a wild and treacherous setting. The opening of the narrative plunges readers into the midst of a tumultuous storm where Bomba, crouched under a rock, prepares for imminent danger as he hears the approach of bloodthirsty headhunters. He is determined to protect Casson, who is vulnerable due to his frail condition. The storm acts as both a physical challenge and a backdrop for Bomba's inner turmoil, setting the stage for an intense conflict as he relies on his wits and physical prowess to evade threats from nature and man alike. As he navigates through the chaos, Bomba's deep-seated loyalty and courage emerge, promising an exciting journey filled with peril and action.

Dave Dashaway and His Hydroplane; Or, Daring Adventures over the Great Lake

"Dave Dashaway and His Hydroplane; Or, Daring Adventures over the Great Lake" by Roy Rockwood is a fictional adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young aviator named Dave Dashaway as he embarks on a series of bold exploits with his trusty hydroplane, navigating the challenges of competitive aviation and unraveling mysteries related to the aircraft industry. The opening of the tale introduces readers to a rainy day at the Columbus aero meet, where Dave receives a telegram that hints at urgent matters concerning the Interstate Aeroplane Company. As he contemplates the significance of the message, Dave, accompanied by his friend Hiram Dobbs, quickly realizes that they must investigate a potential trick played on their aviation team. Their shared enthusiasm for aeronautics and the sense of adventure sets the tone for the ensuing challenges and escapades involving contracts, rivalries, and the high-stakes world of early aviation. The introduction effectively establishes the characters and their ambitions, compelling readers to join Dave on a thrilling journey filled with aerial feats and unexpected twists.

Through Space to Mars; Or, the Longest Journey on Record

"Through Space to Mars; Or, the Longest Journey on Record" by Roy Rockwood is a science fiction novel likely written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around two young inventors, Jack Darrow and Mark Sampson, who are students at the Universal Electrical and Chemical College, and their daring aspirations to travel to Mars as part of a remarkable journey filled with scientific discoveries. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Jack and Mark in their college laboratory, where they are conducting experiments. Their adventures take a dramatic turn when they receive a telegram from their guardian, Professor Henderson, summoning them home, stirring anxieties about his safety. Upon their arrival, they meet Professor Henderson's acquaintance, Mr. Santell Roumann, who proposes an extraordinary plan: a trip to Mars using a revolutionary projectile powered by a mysterious force known as "Etherium." As they prepare for their ambitious voyage, they tackle various challenges, including the theft of crucial machinery. The opening chapters set the stage for a thrilling interplanetary journey brimming with potential scientific wonders and unforeseen dangers.

Dave Fearless and the Cave of Mystery; or, Adrift on the Pacific

"Dave Fearless and the Cave of Mystery; or, Adrift on the Pacific" by Roy Rockwood is a young adult adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Dave Fearless and his father, Amos, two skilled divers as they navigate a series of thrilling escapades in pursuit of a hidden treasure in the Pacific. Set against the backdrop of their quest, the tale is filled with high-seas adventure, deception, and battles against foes as they strive to reclaim the fortune that has slipped from their grasp. At the start of the narrative, we find Dave and his father on the deck of their ship, the "Swallow", having just discovered that their precious treasure has been stolen and replaced with worthless scrap. This shocking revelation sends them on a frantic mission to recover what is rightfully theirs, as they deal with treacherous rivals and unexpected challenges. The opening chapter sets the stage for an exhilarating quest filled with danger, camaraderie, and resourcefulness, as Dave plots to outsmart their enemies and ensure their treasure is ultimately reclaimed.

Bomba the jungle boy at the giant cataract : $b Or, Chief Nascanora and his captives

"Bomba the Jungle Boy at the Giant Cataract: Or, Chief Nascanora and His Captives" by Roy Rockwood is an adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the brave fourteen-year-old protagonist, Bomba, who navigates the dangers of the jungle while seeking to uncover the truth about his parents. Throughout his journey, he faces numerous perils, including human enemies, wild beasts, and the unforgiving elements of nature. At the start of the tale, Bomba is portrayed as a young boy adept at surviving in the treacherous jungle, where he must remain vigilant against both animals and hostile natives known as headhunters. After reuniting with a friendly monkey named Doto, Bomba reflects on the recent loss of his companion, Jojasta, the local medicine man who could have revealed information about his parents. Soon, he detects a threat from the headhunters, leading to a sudden attack that forces him to draw on all his skills to evade capture. The opening sets the stage for Bomba's impending challenges and establishes a tone of suspense and adventure that will engage readers drawn to stories of bravery in exotic settings.

Lost on the Moon; Or, in Quest of the Field of Diamonds

"Lost on the Moon; Or, in Quest of the Field of Diamonds" by Roy Rockwood is a science fiction novel likely written in the early 20th century. This adventurous tale centers around two boys, Jack Darrow and Mark Sampson, who embark on a quest inspired by a Martian newspaper article suggesting the existence of diamonds on the moon, referred to as "Reonaris." The boys, along with their mentor, Professor Henderson, are eager to explore this possibility and intend to build a spacecraft for their lunar journey. At the start of the story, Jack and Mark engage in an animated debate about the authenticity of a newspaper article they brought back from Mars, which claims that a field of diamonds was discovered on the moon. They bring in their professors to help interpret the article, confirming their suspicions. Excited by the prospect of the expedition, they start planning their journey to the moon. However, there is a twist as Mark later disappears after exploring a mysterious nearby old house, leading to Jack's growing concern for his friend. This early setup introduces elements of adventure, exploration, and an intriguing hint of danger, which foreshadows the challenges they will face on their journey.

Dave Fearless after a sunken treasure : $b or, The rival ocean divers

"Dave Fearless after a Sunken Treasure: or, The Rival Ocean Divers" by Roy Rockwood is a juvenile adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Dave Fearless, a resourceful and courageous young man, as he embarks on a thrilling treasure-hunting journey alongside his father, Amos Fearless. They face various challenges, including rival treasure hunters and dangerous sea creatures, in their quest to locate a sunken fortune. The opening of the novel introduces Dave and his father as they discuss a sunken treasure worth a million dollars, believed to be located at the wreck of the steamship "Happy Hour". Dave learns that their rivals, the Hankers family, are also interested in the treasure, igniting a competitive tension. When Bart Hankers overhears their plans, it sparks a confrontation between him and Dave, showcasing Dave's determination and skills. The chapter sets the stage for an adventurous pursuit filled with underwater exploration, clever strategies, and the spirit of rivalry, hinting at the exciting challenges that await the characters as they dive deeper into their quest.

On a Torn-Away World; Or, the Captives of the Great Earthquake

"On a Torn-Away World; Or, the Captives of the Great Earthquake" by Roy Rockwood is a novel that likely hails from the early 20th century. The story revolves around two boys, Jack Darrow and Mark Sampson, who, under the guidance of Professor Henderson, work on an advanced flying machine called the "Snowbird". The narrative promises a thrilling adventure as these characters embark on expeditions that push the boundaries of science and exploration, encountering unique challenges along the way. At the start of the novel, Jack and Mark celebrate the completion of their airship, the "Snowbird", while they prepare for a test flight. Their playful banter with Washington White, the amusing African American servant, sets a lighthearted tone before they shift to the seriousness of the launch. The group's dynamics are established, showing camaraderie and humorous interactions. As they engage in a daring air adventure, they abruptly face unforeseen challenges, including a potential attack from another aircraft. The opening sets the stage for a gripping tale of exploration mingled with elements of danger, showcasing the excitement of early aeronautical endeavors.

Dave Dashaway the Young Aviator; Or, In the Clouds for Fame and Fortune

"Dave Dashaway the Young Aviator; Or, In the Clouds for Fame and Fortune" by Roy Rockwood is a juvenile aviation novel published in 1913. Young Dave, the orphaned son of a famous balloonist, escapes his cruel guardian to pursue his dreams of flight. Finding work at an airport, he studies under renowned aviator Robert King and earns his chance as a pilot. With his loyal assistant Hiram Hobbs at his side, Dave embarks on daring adventures in the early days of aviation.

Dave Dashaway, Air Champion; Or, Wizard Work in the Clouds

"Dave Dashaway, Air Champion; Or, Wizard Work in the Clouds" by Roy Rockwood is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure story centers around the young aviator Dave Dashaway, who is passionate about aviation and seeks to secure his prominence in the field. He, along with his enthusiastic friend Hiram, prepares for a significant international aviation contest that promises fame and fortune, all while navigating challenges and adversaries who seek to thwart his success. The opening portion of the story introduces readers to Dave Dashaway and his friend Hiram as they discuss an upcoming Grand International Aviation Contest. While Dave is initially hesitant to enter, Hiram's excitement and encouragement push him to consider the opportunity. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of a suspicious Englishman, Lieutenant Mortimer, who tries to recruit Dave for a secret mission. Shortly after this encounter, an explosion occurs in their hangar, hinting at potential sabotage, which adds tension to their preparations for the contest. The narrative sets the stage for thrilling events, showcasing Dave's skills, the challenges he will face from rivals, and the underlying mystery of the forces working against him.

The Speedwell Boys and Their Racing Auto; Or, A Run for the Golden Cup

"The Speedwell Boys and Their Racing Auto; Or, A Run for the Golden Cup" by Roy Rockwood is a fictional adventure story written in the early 20th century. The book follows the escapades of brothers Dan and Billy Speedwell, who are part of the Riverdale Outing Club and eager to participate in thrilling motor races and adventures. Their journey begins amidst a series of conflicts with reckless drivers, the aftermath of a dramatic car crash, and even the pursuit of criminals tied to a bank robbery. The opening of the story introduces readers to the Speedwell brothers as they witness a chaotic scene involving a boy named Maxey Solomons, who is struggling to control his poorly driven automobile. This soon escalates into an accident where Maxey’s car is overturned, prompting Dan Speedwell to leap into action to follow the reckless drivers who caused the mishap. He soon learns that these same reckless drivers are tied to a larger narrative, which includes a robbery. As the brothers become more entwined in the events of the day, they also seize the chance to purchase a wrecked car, setting the stage for further thrills and challenges ahead. This engaging opening sets a tone of adventure, camaraderie, and suspense that will appeal to readers looking for an exciting narrative filled with youthful determination and racing escapades.

The Speedwell Boys and Their Ice Racer; Or, Lost in the Great Blizzard

"The Speedwell Boys and Their Ice Racer; Or, Lost in the Great Blizzard" by Roy Rockwood is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventurous tale follows the Speedwell brothers, Billy and Dan, as they navigate thrilling winter escapades, including their aspirations to build a racing iceboat amidst the challenges posed by winter storms, encounters with mysterious figures, and rivalries with other boys in their town. The opening of the story introduces the Speedwell brothers while they manage their family's milk delivery business, setting the tone for their hardworking, spirited personalities. As they grapple with a brewing blizzard, they encounter a strange boy, referred to as "Dummy," who cannot speak English. This chance meeting leads to a series of events that intertwine with their plans for building an ice racer. The boys' excitement for adventure is contrasted with the mysteries surrounding the silent stranger and foreshadows the adventures—and possible dangers—that lie ahead as the characters venture into winter sports and unforeseen challenges.

Dave Dashaway and His Giant Airship; or, A Marvellous Trip Across the Atlantic

"Dave Dashaway and His Giant Airship; or, A Marvellous Trip Across the Atlantic" by Roy Rockwood is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the young aviator Dave Dashaway as he embarks on adventurous flights in various airships, including his latest challenge—crossing the Atlantic in a giant airship called the "Albatross". The narrative is infused with elements of aviation, excitement, and the determination of youth. The opening of the book introduces readers to Dave Dashaway and the setting of his current life as an aviator. It begins with an encounter with a somewhat pretentious young man who wants to inspect Dave's airship, the "Gossamer". However, Dave is deeply focused on assisting a young girl named Amy Winston, who is in distress because her mother is ill. In a selfless act, Dave decides to pilot the "Gossamer" to help Amy reach her mother in time. As the introduction unfolds, it establishes Dave's character as brave, kind-hearted, and skilled, and sets the stage for further adventures and the development of his burgeoning proficiency in aviation.

Dave Dashaway Around the World; or, A Young Yankee Aviator Among Many Nations

"Dave Dashaway Around the World; or, A Young Yankee Aviator Among Many Nations" by Roy Rockwood is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young aviator, Dave Dashaway, as he embarks on a thrilling race around the world in his biplane, the "Comet", accompanied by his friends Hiram Dobbs and Elmer Brackett. The narrative sets the stage for high-flying escapades filled with intrigue, friendship, and challenges, as they prepare to face rivals and adversities along their journey. At the start of the tale, the characters are introduced in a dramatic setting where a hangar mischief unfolds. The young airmen are on the brink of an exciting adventure but are met with a pressing threat from an old enemy, Vernon. Hiram and Elmer express their concern as they await Dave, who has achieved fame in aviation. Their plans are jeopardized when they learn of a scheme potentially masterminded by Vernon to hinder their race. The opening establishes the high stakes and thrilling dynamics between the characters, setting the tone for the adventure that lies ahead.

The Wizard of the Sea; Or, A Trip Under the Ocean

"The Wizard of the Sea; Or, A Trip Under the Ocean" by Roy Rockwood is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of boys, particularly the protagonist Montrose Folsom, as they embark on adventurous experiences connected with naval training at a boarding school, leading to extraordinary encounters under the ocean. The narrative combines elements of adventure, excitement, and encounters with the unknown, setting the stage for thrilling underwater escapades. The opening of the novel introduces Mont and his friends as they prepare for their journey to Nautical Hall, a nautical boarding school. Mont is excited and full of mischief, while banter with his friends reveals their personalities. After they arrive at the school, it becomes clear that tensions exist, particularly with a bully named Hoke Ummer. The turn of events quickly escalates as Mont finds himself in confrontations and narrowly escapes a serious accident with a cannon. As the boys' adventures continue, the initial light-hearted tone shifts towards suspense, especially when they encounter a mysterious sea monster, foreshadowing the extraordinary underwater exploits that will follow in the novel.

Under the Ocean to the South Pole; Or, the Strange Cruise of the Submarine Wonder

"Under the Ocean to the South Pole; Or, the Strange Cruise of the Submarine Wonder" by Roy Rockwood is an adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows Professor Amos Henderson and his two teenage companions, Mark and Jack, as they embark on an ambitious journey to traverse the ocean depths to reach the South Pole. The narrative introduces innovative technological concepts surrounding submarine travel, featuring a newly developed submersible named the "Porpoise", designed for exploration and adventure. At the start of the novel, we encounter Professor Henderson as he prepares to test the submarine, surrounded by the eager assistance of Mark and Jack. The opening pages set the scene with Mark and Jack’s camaraderie as they anticipate the adventures ahead. Following the professor's meticulous preparations, the narrative hints at the excitement and challenges they might face, including encounters with dangerous underwater creatures and the myriad of scientific mysteries lying beneath the ocean. This introduction effectively immerses the reader in an imaginative voyage filled with suspense and exploration, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy tales of adventure and scientific marvels.

Rival ocean divers : $b or, The search for a sunken treasure

"Rival ocean divers : or, The search for a sunken treasure" by Roy Rockwood is a juvenile adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows teen diver Dave Fearless and his father Amos as they join Captain Broadbeam’s government ship, the Swallow, to locate a fortune lost with the wrecked Happy Hour in the Pacific, while the wealthy Lemuel Hankers and his son Bart mount a rival hunt aboard the Raven. Expect inventive deep-sea gear (notably a new diving bell), fierce marine creatures, South Seas hazards, and a bitter family rivalry over a long-lost inheritance. The opening of this novel sets the stakes and the chase in motion: Dave learns of the treasure and the Happy Hour’s probable resting place; Bart Hankers eavesdrops and his father rushes to get a head start, even planting a hireling to frame Dave in Washington (a ploy that fails). Dave and Amos ship on the Swallow, descend in the bell, and survive a harrowing encounter with monstrous deep-sea fish, followed by a shark attack at the surface. A violent storm strikes; lightning leaves Amos alive but unable to speak. At San Murio Island, Dave and young engineer Bob Vilett go ashore, fall into underground caverns, and Dave is captured after overhearing Lemuel Hankers and his man Rackley plotting to sabotage the Swallow by infiltrating her as a “castaway.” Bob rescues Dave from a jaguar; the pair endure a gorilla attack, then reach the beach only to be seized by islanders occupied with butchering a stranded whale. The section closes with the boys bound inland as a group approaches, including a white man disguised among the natives.

Through the Air to the North Pole
 Or, The Wonderful Cruise of the Electric Monarch

"Through the Air to the North Pole" by Roy Rockwood is a science fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows two orphans, Jack Darrow and Mark Sampson, who escape a petty constable in their small town and find themselves embarking on an extraordinary adventure when they accidentally board a runaway freight train. Their journey leads them to an inventor, Professor Henderson, who has created a groundbreaking airship called the Electric Monarch, destined for the North Pole. The opening of the book introduces Jack and Mark as they flee from Freeport, facing the misjudgment of society and their fight for survival as they seek companionship and a new path in life. Their interaction with the brusque constable sets the tone for their daring escape, and their subsequent encounter with a freight train propels them into the eccentric world of the professor. As they delve into their adventures, they not only experience the thrill of traveling through the air but also confront challenges such as a railroad accident, an encounter with eagles, and the dangers of the arctic environment, all while forming friendships and uncovering their potential for bravery.