The Motor Girls at Camp Surprise; Or, The Cave in the Mountains

by Margaret Penrose

"The Motor Girls at Camp Surprise; Or, The Cave in the Mountains" by Margaret Penrose is a young adult fiction novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging story follows the adventures of Cora Kimball and her two friends, the Robinson twins, as they embark on a summer trip to Camp Surprise. Set against a backdrop of mystery and camaraderie, the narrative hints at surprising events that await them at the camp, stirring curiosity and thrilling anticipation. At the start of the story, the main characters are introduced as Cora, Bess, and Belle, who are on a drive to a local tea room in Cora's automobile. Their light-hearted banter, filled with sibling teasing and discussions about their upcoming camping trip, reflects their playful friendships and personalities. However, the mood shifts dramatically when they discover that Cora's car is missing, allegedly taken by two young men. As they investigate and interact with the characters around them, including their brother Jack and his friend Walter, they navigate a series of comedic misunderstandings and initial mysteries, setting the stage for their summer adventure filled with unexpected twists and potential secrets at Camp Surprise.