Subject

Adirondack Mountains (N.Y.) -- Juvenile fiction Books

Best books

Mary Constance Du Bois

The Lass of the Silver Sword

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Lillian Elizabeth Roy

Girl Scouts in the Adirondacks

"Girl Scouts in the Adirondacks" by Lillian Elizabeth Roy is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of Girl Scouts, led by their Captain, Mrs. Vernon, as they embark on a summer camping trip to the Adirondacks. Throughout their journey, they partake in various outdoor activities, face challenges, and develop camaraderie while navigating the adventures of camp life. The opening of the book introduces the main characters, a lively group of girls who are part of the Dandelion Troop. They are excitedly preparing for their journey, packing their belongings into two touring cars, and implementing their plans for a camping adventure. Amidst the cheerful banter, the girls encounter some mishaps, including a car issue that delays their arrival, but they maintain a positive attitude. As they set off, the camaraderie among the troop members is highlighted, foreshadowing the fun and trials they will experience throughout their time in the Adirondacks. This start sets the tone for a summer filled with exploration, learning, and growth for the Girl Scouts.

Edward Stratemeyer

The Rover Boys In The Mountains; Or, A Hunt for Fun and Fortune

"The Rover Boys In The Mountains; Or, A Hunt for Fun and Fortune" by Stratemeyer is a children’s adventure novel written in the early 20th century. This book follows the Rover brothers—Dick, Tom, and Sam—as they embark on a winter adventure in the Adirondacks, navigating their school life, dealing with adversaries, and uncovering mysteries related to a brass-lined money casket they discovered during a previous trip. The opening of the novel introduces the Rover boys at Putnam Hall, where excitement builds over the frozen lake, promising great skating ahead. As the brothers discuss potential skating matches, a conflict arises with a wealthy but arrogant peer, William Tubbs, leading to a physical altercation. This situation attracts the attention of their strict teacher, Jasper Grinder, who punishes Sam and Tubbs by sending them to confinement, under the care of the increasingly volatile Grinder. The narrative establishes the dynamics between characters, setting the stage for the boys' inventive escapades, and hints at further conflict with their namesake antagonist, Dan Baxter, suggesting that the boys' winter adventure will lead to both fun and unforeseen challenges.

Silas K. Boone

Phil Bradley's Mountain Boys : $b or, The Birch Bark Lodge

"Phil Bradley's Mountain Boys: or The Birch Bark Lodge" by Silas K. Boone is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a group of four adventurous boys—Phil, Lub, Raymond (X-Ray), and Ethan—as they embark on a thrilling camping trip in the Adirondacks, drawn by the allure of exploring Phil's mountain estate and the mysterious Lake Surprise. The narrative seems rich with themes of friendship, adventure, and the excitement of outdoor life, particularly in the presence of untamed nature. The opening of the book introduces us to the four friends as they navigate through a rugged wilderness, laden with camping gear and fishing supplies. Their banter sets a light-hearted tone, particularly highlighting Lub's humorous complaints about the arduous trek. As they finally near Lake Surprise, tension arises when they encounter a mother bobcat, which could potentially pose a danger to them. Phil's quick thinking leads to a narrowly averted crisis as they manage to evade the wild animal, showcasing their varying personalities. The boys arrive at their destination only to discover the remnants of previous occupants, creating a sense of mystery and setting the stage for adventure that lies ahead.

Percy Keese Fitzhugh

Tom Slade at Temple Camp

"Tom Slade at Temple Camp" by Percy Keese Fitzhugh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Tom Slade, a young boy who has progressed from a reckless youth known for his mischievous behavior to a responsible scout leader after being elected by his peers. The narrative centers around Tom's journey with his friends as they prepare for a summer camp filled with adventures, self-discovery, and the spirit of scouting. At the start of the book, we are introduced to the dynamics of the Scout troop as they elect Tom Slade as the assistant camp manager for Temple Camp. This event sets the stage for Tom’s character development and hints at the camaraderie and competitive spirit among the boys. Tom's humble acceptance speech reveals his determination to prove himself and his desire to embark on a hike to the camp instead of taking a train, which emphasizes his commitment to the scout ethos. The opening also introduces key characters, including Roy Blakeley, who orchestrates the election, and Pee-wee Harris, the comedic mascot of their group, highlighting their personalities and the humorous banter that characterizes their interactions. The contrast between Tom's serious demeanor and Pee-wee’s playful character forms a foundation for their upcoming adventures.

Ross Kay

The Go Ahead Boys in the Island Camp

"The Go Ahead Boys in the Island Camp" by Ross Kay is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around four young boys—John, Fred, Grant, and George—who embark on a summer camping trip in the Adirondacks. As they set up camp, indulge in various outdoor activities, and navigate the challenges of nature, the narrative captures the excitement and camaraderie of childhood adventures. At the start of the tale, the boys are busy pitching their tent and preparing for their first night at the camp. The dynamic between the friends quickly unfolds, revealing their distinct personalities through playful banter and teamwork. Tensions arise as they discuss the best location for their tent and ponder about fishing opportunities. The chapter ends with hints of mischief and the anticipation of more challenges ahead, setting a light-hearted yet adventurous tone for the rest of the novel. The opening portion establishes a strong sense of friendship and adventure, drawing readers into the excitement of summer and the great outdoors.

Gertrude Hall Brownell

The Nowadays Girls in the Adirondacks : $b or, The deserted bungalow on Saranac Lake

"The Nowadays Girls in the Adirondacks: or, The Deserted Bungalow on Saranac…" by Gertrude Calvert Hall is a juvenile adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows four spirited friends—Sylvia Pursell, Rose Bancroft, Alice Harrow, and Hazel “Baby” Reed—who call themselves the Nowadays Club and set off for an Adirondack summer with their dignified chaperon, Mrs. Theodora Leigh Brownley. Woven through their vacation plans is Sylvia’s worry for her brother Roy, recovering at Saranac after a breakdown tied to a lost chemical formula, hinting at mystery alongside outdoor fun. Expect dances, canoeing, mishaps, and budding friendships as the girls make their way toward Saranac and the promise of a deeper intrigue. The opening of the story introduces the club, their lively personalities, and Sylvia’s plan for an Adirondack tour that will end near Roy’s sanitarium at Saranac Lake. A troubling telegram about Roy is softened by a later reassuring call, and the girls plunge into New York shopping and theater before departing with Aunt Theodora. On the train they befriend Jack Benton, detour for a sociable week in Syracuse, then reach Old Forge. There, a ballroom mishap sees Alice’s emerald ring lost and dramatically recovered, a canoe collision tips Alice into the lake (rescued by practiced oarsmen), and a golf drive knocks a passerby—but only his pride—before the girls try their luck fishing. Finally, they set off by guide-boat through the Fulton Chain toward Raquette Lake, stopping at the first carry as their journey—and the larger mystery—begins to take shape.

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