Subject
Arizona -- Description and travel -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Carol Norton
The Phantom Town Mystery
"The Phantom Town Mystery" by Carol Norton is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in a desert setting in Arizona and centers around four young characters: Mary Moore, Dora Bellman, Dick Farley, and the cowboy Jerry Newcomb. The narrative hints at a thrilling mystery involving an old hermit named Sven Pedersen, also known as "Lucky Loon," and his long-lost sister, Bodil. As the characters explore their surrounding ghost town and mountains, they become intrigued by the eerie tales and mysteries that the area has to offer, setting the stage for an adventurous plot. At the start of the book, the four friends enjoy a horseback excursion in the desert when they discover an ancient, mysterious rock house associated with Sven Pedersen. Their excitement builds as they hear tales of past tragedies and treasures linked to the hermit and his sister. The girls express interest in the legend of the "Evil Eye Turquoise," while the boys recount the history of the ghost town and the oddities surrounding it. Meanwhile, they also touch upon the fates of a poor family that has recently settled nearby. The blend of adventure and mystery in the opening chapters invites readers into a world filled with suspense and curiosity, as the characters prepare to delve deeper into the secrets of their surroundings.
Margaret Vandercook
The Camp Fire Girls on the edge of the desert
"The Camp Fire Girls on the Edge of the Desert" by Margaret Vandercook is a novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging story follows a group of young girls, members of the Camp Fire organization, as they embark on an adventurous journey into the Arizona desert. Centered around Bettina Graham, a shy and introspective girl, the narrative explores her dynamic with other girls, including her spirited cousin Polly, as they confront the challenges and excitement of their new environment. The opening of the novel introduces Bettina as she enjoys a quiet moment by a campfire, immersed in her poetry. Her contemplative nature contrasts sharply with the more pragmatic personality of her cousin Polly, who finds Bettina’s dreamy tendencies amusing. During their walk home, Polly reveals that a relative has written with plans for their summer, hinting at upcoming adventures. The girls' interactions set the tone for their journey and highlight themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the excitement of venturing into new territories—a foreshadowing of their experiences in the wild desert that lies ahead.
Annie F. (Annie Fellows) Johnston
The Little Colonel in Arizona
"The Little Colonel in Arizona" by Annie F. Johnston is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the Ware family, particularly the spirited young Mary Ware, as they relocate from Kansas to Arizona in search of a better life for Mary’s ailing mother. This transition to a new home filled with adventures and challenges provides a rich backdrop for exploring themes of family, resilience, and the charm of childhood innocence." "At the start of the book, the Ware family is introduced while they travel on a train to Arizona, where they will live in a boarding camp for invalids, Lee's Ranch. Young Mary quickly becomes an engaging character, captivating fellow travelers with her chatter about her family's move and their past home. She eagerly looks forward to living in a tent and embarking on new adventures, while her older siblings exhibit more apprehension and embarrassment, particularly concerning her outspoken nature. The family's dynamic is highlighted through the interactions between the siblings and their new acquaintances, setting the stage for further developments as they settle into their new desert life."
Lillian Elizabeth Roy
Girl Scouts in Arizona and New Mexico
"Girl Scouts in Arizona and New Mexico" by Lillian Elizabeth Roy is a historical account written in the early 20th century. It recounts the adventures of the Dandelion Troop of Girl Scouts as they embark on a summer camping trip to explore the natural beauty of Arizona and New Mexico. The narrative follows several girls, primarily focusing on Juliet Lee, as they plan and anticipate their exciting expedition into the wilderness, showcasing their camaraderie and various challenges they face along the way. At the start of the book, the Dandelion Troop members gather to discuss their upcoming trip and express their eagerness to travel with Mr. Gilroy, their sponsoring adult leader. The girls, each with distinct personalities and aspirations, react differently to their parents' concerns about safety and adventure. The chapter introduces their excitement and the dynamics among the troop members, particularly highlighting Juliet's ambitious nature as she prepares to document their journey for a local newspaper. This opening segment sets the stage for their adventure, filled with friendships, challenges, and personal growth as they journey into the Southwest’s captivating landscapes.
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