Subject
Brigands and robbers -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Bracebridge Hemyng
Jack Harkaway and His Son's Escape from the Brigands of Greece
"Jack Harkaway and His Son's Escape from the Brigands of Greece" by Bracebridge Hemyng is a novel written in the late 19th century. This adventurous tale continues from "Jack Harkaway and His Son's Adventures in Greece," following the escapades of the titular character, Jack Harkaway, and his interactions with a colorful cast, including his son and their companions as they face off against a band of brigands in Greece. The opening of this novel introduces us to a light-hearted yet tension-filled atmosphere, beginning with a mysterious letter from the Contessa Maraviglia inviting Mr. Mole to a grand ball. As the story unfolds, we see Mole’s amusing misadventures, including his reluctance to attend the ball due to fears of a romantic entanglement and possible danger from the contessa's affections. Meanwhile, a subplot involving the brigands is hinted at, as we are introduced to Mathias and his crew, who plot mischief. The scene sets a whimsical tone, interspersed with suspense, laying the groundwork for future confrontations and escapades that promise both humor and action as the characters deal with the brigands lurking nearby.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
On the Irrawaddy: A Story of the First Burmese War
"On the Irrawaddy: A Story of the First Burmese War" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative appears to center on the military campaigns of the First Burmese War, focusing on the adventures of a young protagonist named Stanley, who navigates complex socio-political landscapes and personal challenges while exploring the implications of British imperial actions in Burma. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the aftermath of Stanley's father’s death and his subsequent decision to stay in India with his uncle, Tom Pearson, a trader. As the story unfolds, Stanley becomes embroiled in the burgeoning conflict between the British Empire and Burma, showcasing his linguistic skills and adaptability amid rising tensions marked by combat and territorial disputes. The early chapters lay a foundation for a tale steeped in ambition, courage, and the harsh realities of war, positioning Stanley as a character who is likely to face numerous trials as the narrative progresses.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Enchanted Island of Yew Whereon Prince Marvel Encountered the High Ki of Twi and Other Surprising People
"The Enchanted Island of Yew" by L. Frank Baum is a children's fantasy novel published in 1903. A bored fairy convinces three mortal girls to transform her into a human boy for one year. Now called Prince Marvel, this adventurous newcomer sets out across the island of Yew with magical weapons and an enchanted steed. Along the way, Marvel encounters peculiar challenges: a reformed bandit king, a glittering dragon without fire, twin rulers who share one mind, and fraudulent magicians—all in a quest to bring peace to a land overrun by rogues.
Clarence Young
The Motor Boys in Mexico; Or, The Secret of the Buried City
"The Motor Boys in Mexico; Or, The Secret of the Buried City" by Clarence Young is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows three boys—Ned, Bob, and Jerry—who embark on a journey from Arizona to Mexico after learning about a buried city rumored to hold great treasures. Their journey is filled with encounters both amusing and perilous as they deal with old enemies and new challenges along the way. At the start of the narrative, the boys are living in a mining camp in Arizona when a familiar figure, Professor Uriah Snodgrass, gets himself trapped in an abandoned mine shaft while collecting specimens. After rescuing the professor, he reveals the tale of a buried city in Mexico, igniting their curiosity. The boys decide to make the trip in their automobile, despite the looming threat of Noddy Nixon, a former nemesis, who they discover may also be heading to Mexico. The opening chapters set the tone for a mix of adventure and humor, foreshadowing the various challenges they will encounter on their quest.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Mary Louise Adopts a Soldier
"Mary Louise Adopts a Soldier" by Edith Van Dyne is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Mary Louise, a spirited young girl, and her grandfather, Colonel Hathaway, as they navigate life after the Great War and welcome returning soldiers to their small town of Dorfield. Central to the plot is their interaction with Danny Dexter, a soldier who becomes a point of interest for Mary Louise, leading to themes of friendship, duty, and the complexities of human nature. The opening of the book introduces readers to Mary Louise and her grandfather as they discuss the return of the Dorfield Regiment. Mary Louise expresses her desire to welcome the soldiers and possibly help those who have no homes to return to. Their conversation reveals her warmth and patriotism, which set the tone for the story. As they prepare to greet the soldiers, a deeper narrative unfolds surrounding the enigmatic figure of Danny Dexter, whose motivations seem more complicated than initially apparent. The reader is drawn into a mix of community spirit and suspense as Mary Louise's interactions hint at a budding mystery involving Danny and the soldiers returning from war.
Grace Brooks Hill
The Corner House Girls Solve a Mystery What It Was, Where It Was, and Who Found It
"The Corner House Girls Solve a Mystery" by Grace Brooks Hill is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows the adventures of the Kenway sisters—Ruth, Agnes, Dot, and Tess—as they engage in mystery-solving activities in their home at the Corner House. The narrative is lively and focuses on the girls' interactions with their friends and the amusing antics that unfold as they encounter strange characters and unexpected situations. At the start of the book, the young Corner House girls are found in their kitchen, preparing cakes with the help of their friend Sammy Pinkney. As they bake, an excited atmosphere builds around Sammy's plans to show them a trick involving his newly acquired pet alligator, Snapper. The scene shifts rapidly when Sammy's alligator inadvertently causes chaos, leading to spilled eggs, alarmed reactions from the older sisters, and foreshadowing a mystery involving two suspicious men who had been caught lurking around their home. This opening sets the tone for a light-hearted yet adventurous tale that promises laughter and an engaging mystery.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Aunt Jane's Nieces Abroad
"Aunt Jane's Nieces Abroad" by L. Frank Baum is a young adult novel written in 1907. Eccentric millionaire John Merrick takes his three nieces on a grand European tour, where adventure and danger await. In Sicily, they encounter the mysterious Victor Valdi, who leads a double life as a brigand kidnapping tourists for ransom. When Uncle John is captured, his courageous nieces must mount a daring rescue, while romantic intrigue unfolds and trust proves dangerously misplaced in this tale of Americans abroad.
Edith Lavell
The Mystery at Dark Cedars
"The Mystery at Dark Cedars" by Edith Lavell is a juvenile detective novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Mary Louise Gay, a spirited sixteen-year-old girl detective, and her friend Jane Patterson, who find themselves embroiled in a mystery involving a robbery at the eerie estate of Miss Mattie Grant. As they navigate the peculiar circumstances surrounding Miss Grant’s home and its inhabitants, the duo is determined to uncover the truth while also helping a neglected niece, Elsie, who is unjustly suspected of theft. At the start of the narrative, Mary Louise and Jane rescue a kitten from a tree, which leads them to the sinister confines of the Grant residence, rumored to be haunted. Through their visit, they learn about a robbery involving stolen money from Miss Grant's safe, with suspicion falling on her niece, Elsie. As the girls dig deeper into the family dynamics and secrets surrounding the case, they encounter various characters, including Elsie's selfish relatives. The opening chapters set the stage for their budding detective work, highlighting their determination to clear Elsie's name and solve the mystery while offering a glimpse of the atmospheric world that Lavell has crafted.
Laura Dent Crane
The Automobile Girls Along the Hudson; Or, Fighting Fire in Sleepy Hollow
"The Automobile Girls Along the Hudson; Or, Fighting Fire in Sleepy Hollow" by Laura Dent Crane is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of adventurous young women known as the "Automobile Girls," led by a character named Ruth, as they embark on a summer motor trip along the Hudson River, soon finding themselves involved in a series of exciting escapades, including encounters with forest fires and potential kidnappings. The opening of the narrative presents an engaging and humorous scene among the main characters, Barbara and Mollie, who are playfully debating their roles and appearances while preparing for a visit from their wealthy friend Ruth. This light-hearted exchange sets the stage for the arrival of Ruth and other companions as they scheme their upcoming journey. They enthusiastically plan a motor trip to Sleepy Hollow, eager for adventures filled with local history and romance. As the narrative progresses, we are introduced to the dynamic of the girls and their interactions with various characters, including a mysterious motorcyclist who later becomes crucial in an unexpected encounter. This blend of humor, friendship, and adventure will likely resonate with readers seeking a charming and adventurous tale.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
The Flying Girl and Her Chum
"The Flying Girl and Her Chum" by L. Frank Baum is a fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around two adventurous girls, Orissa Kane, a skilled aviator known as the 'Flying Girl,' and her friend Sybil Cumberford. Their journey begins aboard a train to San Diego, where they are eager to participate in an aviation meet and experience the thrill of flying. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the main characters as they travel together, sharing their aspirations and backgrounds. They encounter various challenges on their journey, such as discussions about the world of aviation and the dynamics of wealth and fame represented by Madeline Dentry, another passenger on the train. Orissa, poised to showcase her flying skills, reveals her deep connection to aviation, born from a long apprenticeship under her brother Stephen, an ingenious aircraft inventor. As the opening chapters unfold, the groundwork is laid for an adventurous flight that will test their resolve and ingenuity, particularly when they find themselves stranded on an uncharted island after an aerial mishap.
E. C. (Edith C.) Kenyon
Lost in the backwoods
"Lost in the Backwoods" by E.C. Kenyon is a fictional adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Cyril Morton, a young boy who finds himself in perilous situations after a train robbery that leads to his father's presumed death. As Cyril navigates the dangers of the backwoods of North America, he grapples with loneliness, fear, and the desire to reunite with his father while encountering various characters along the way. At the start of the narrative, Cyril and his father are aboard a train when they are attacked by a group of robbers. In the chaos of the robbery, Cyril's father is shot, and Cyril is taken away by one of the robbers, Whiterock. Cyril soon finds himself alone in the wilderness, battling despair as he searches for his father. The opening chapters depict his struggles to survive in the forest, his encounters with wild animals, and his emerging faith as he relies on prayer for guidance. Despite the perilous circumstances, Cyril showcases bravery, compassion, and a strong moral compass, setting the stage for his journey of resilience and the quest for familial reconnection.
Grace Brooks Hill
The Corner House Girls on a Houseboat How they sailed away, what happened on the voyage, and what was discovered
"The Corner House Girls on a Houseboat" by Grace Brooks Hill is a novel aimed at a young audience, likely written in the early 20th century. This charming story follows the lives of four sisters—Ruth, Agnes, Dot, and Tess—who embark on new adventures during their summer vacation, particularly around the intriguing setting of a houseboat. The girls’ plans are intertwined with themes of family, friendship, and youthful mischief, as they navigate various escapades brought on by their spirited personalities. At the start of the book, we find the Corner House bustling with excitement as Ruth is busy preparing for a luncheon gathering with friends to discuss forming a Civic Betterment Club. The scene quickly escalates as Ruth's younger sisters, Dot and Tess, get themselves into a commotion involving a barrel, resulting in Dot’s beloved doll being crushed. Tension builds as the narrative introduces Neale, a local boy with news about his father, which adds a layer of emotion to the unfolding events. Amid the humorous chaos, the sisters contemplate an upcoming houseboat adventure, which promises further excitement and challenges, not just with their personal dynamics but also within their broader community engagements. The opening sets the stage for a delightful exploration of youthful ambition, community involvement, and the various dilemmas that come with both.
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