Pemrose Lorry, Camp Fire Girl

by Isabel Hornibrook

"Pemrose Lorry, Camp Fire Girl" by Isabel Hornibrook is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Pemrose Lorry, a fifteen-year-old Camp Fire Girl, who is deeply inspired by her father's ambition to conquer space through his invention, a rocket called the Thunder Bird. Through a blend of adventure, friendship, and the inner struggle of a young girl, this tale likely explores themes of aspiration and determination against the backdrop of a budding scientific era. The opening of the novel introduces Pemrose and her father, Toandoah, in his laboratory where they discuss the exciting possibilities of space travel. Pemrose imagines herself as the one who will launch the Thunder Bird, her father's dream project, evoking feelings of pride and excitement. However, tension arises from external skepticism, particularly from Una Grosvenor, who undermines the project. As Pemrose prepares to ski with friends at Poplar Hill, her enthusiasm contrasts with her thoughts of a recent train accident, hinting at the dangers that lie ahead. The narrative sets the stage for a combination of personal growth, adventure, and dramatic confrontations as Pemrose navigates both the physical and emotional challenges in her journey.