The Outdoor Girls at the Hostess House; Or, Doing Their Best for the Soldiers

by Laura Lee Hope

"The Outdoor Girls at the Hostess House; Or, Doing Their Best for the Soldiers" by Laura Lee Hope is a work of juvenile fiction likely written in the early 20th century. This engaging novel is part of a series featuring a group of adventurous girls known as the Outdoor Girls, and it centers around their efforts to support soldiers and their families during wartime, mixing themes of friendship, bravery, and social responsibility along the way. At the start of the story, the four main characters—Mollie, Betty, Grace, and Amy—are enjoying a carefree day in Mollie's car when they have a moment of concern about their soldier friends who are preparing to go overseas. Their drive leads to a serious incident when they encounter a little old woman who has been injured in a motorcycle accident. Reacting quickly, the girls rush to assist her, demonstrating their commitment to helping others while hinting at the broader themes of duty and sacrifice that will unfold in the narrative. Mollie's reckless driving and the girls' light-hearted banter provide a backdrop that contrasts with the gravity of the situation they face, setting the tone for both humor and heroism that characterizes their adventures throughout the book.