Subject
Competition -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Ralph Henry Barbour
Winning his game
"Winning His Game" by Ralph Henry Barbour is a sports novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Dudley Baker, a shy and introspective teenage boy at Grafton School, who seeks to prove himself as a pitcher on the school baseball team. With the support of his more outgoing roommate, Jimmy Logan, Dud aims to navigate the social dynamics of school life while pursuing his dream of being a successful athlete. The opening of the book introduces us to Dudley and Jimmy as they engage in a lighthearted yet insightful conversation that reveals Dudley's aspirations and insecurities. While Dud contemplates trying out for the baseball team, he grapples with self-doubt and the fear of rejection from his peers. The contrasting personalities of Jimmy, who encourages Dud to be more social and confident, and Dud's more reserved nature set the stage for a narrative that explores friendship, competition, and personal growth in the context of adolescence and athletic ambition.
Alice Dale Hardy
The Riddle Club at Sunrise Beach : $b How they toured to the shore, what happened on the sand and how they solved the mystery of Rattlesnake Island
"The Riddle Club at Sunrise Beach: How they toured to the shore, what happened…" by Alice Dale Hardy is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the members of the Riddle Club, a group of friends consisting of Jess, Polly, Margy, Fred, Artie, and Ward, as they embark on their summer vacation to Sunrise Beach. Their adventures include solving riddles, navigating challenges, and engaging in festive activities, all set against the backdrop of the beach and the Fourth of July celebrations. At the start of the narrative, the children discuss the oppressive heat and their excitement about their upcoming trip to Sunrise Beach. They hold an informal meeting in the attic barn of the Larue family, where they express their enthusiasm for the beach, illustrate camaraderie, and engage in riddles. However, the mood shifts dramatically when they discover that a package of fireworks intended for the Fourth of July has been destroyed in an accident caused by a rival club member, Joe Anderson. Concerned about having no fireworks for the celebration, the Riddle Club rallies together to procure supplies, setting the stage for the adventures that will unfold throughout their stay at the beach.
Janet D. Wheeler
Billie Bradley and Her Classmates; Or, The Secret of the Locked Tower
"Billie Bradley and Her Classmates; Or, The Secret of the Locked Tower" by Janet D. Wheeler is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Billie Bradley and her friends as they navigate their lives at Three Towers Hall, a boarding school, embarking on various adventures that mix fun with a sense of mystery and danger. At the start of the story, Billie, along with her classmates Violet and Laura, is excitedly skating on a lake that has frozen unusually early in the season. Their joy is abruptly interrupted when they hear cries for help and rush to the scene, discovering three small children stuck in icy water. The girls spring into action, displaying their bravery and resourcefulness as they rescue the frightened children. The opening sets a lively tone while introducing key characters and laying the groundwork for themes of friendship, adventure, and the challenges that lie ahead.
Edward Stratemeyer
The Rover Boys at Big Bear Lake; or, The Camps of the Rival Cadets
"The Rover Boys at Big Bear Lake; or, The Camps of the Rival Cadets" by Arthur M. Winfield is a children's adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows the Rover boys—Jack, Fred, Andy, and Randy—as they experience excitement and rivalry while rowing and competing near Big Bear Lake, and navigating challenges related to their military academy. As they engage in both aquatic competitions and unforeseen events, the narrative introduces themes of friendship, bravery, and the spirit of competition. At the start of the story, the Rover boys are enjoying a day out on Clearwater Lake, practicing their rowing skills when they witness an aeroplane incident that leads to a dramatic rescue of Ruth Stevenson and her father, who are in peril following a crash landing. As the story unfolds, readers are introduced to the characters’ backgrounds and the rivalry with Longley Academy, setting the stage for an impending series of rowing competitions. The Rovers also face personal challenges, such as dealing with their military academy responsibilities and forming bonds with their peers, all while encountering exciting adventures that highlight their camaraderie and courage.
Margaret Penrose
Dorothy Dale's School Rivals
"Dorothy Dale's School Rivals" by Margaret Penrose is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Dorothy Dale, a vivacious girl returning to Glenwood School, and her interactions with friends and rivals as they navigate the trials of school life. The narrative hints at themes of friendship, competition, and personal growth, emblematic of the schoolgirl genre popular during that time. At the start of the narrative, Dorothy and her lively friend Tavia are on a train journey back to Glenwood School but soon face chaos when the train halts due to a broken bridge. Amid the moments of tension, a young man on the train, who is later revealed to be Mr. Armstrong, assists with an injured classmate. Tavia's impulsive nature shines through as she suggests an audacious plan to leave the train and walk to their destination, highlighting both her adventurous spirit and a growing sense of camaraderie among the girls. As the girls finally arrive at Glenwood, they are met with social dynamics that will challenge Dorothy, including the rivalry with the newcomer Jean Faval, setting the stage for the unfolding drama and friendships at school.
Gertrude W. Morrison
The Girls of Central High at Basketball; Or, The Great Gymnasium Mystery
"The Girls of Central High at Basketball; Or, The Great Gymnasium Mystery" by Gertrude W. Morrison is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds at Central High School, focusing on a group of girls who are passionate about basketball and the challenges they face as they compete against other schools. Central to the narrative is Hester Grimes, whose temperamental nature often leads to conflicts with her teammates, impacting their performance and relationships. At the start of the book, Hester finds herself in trouble during a basketball practice due to her disobedience and bad temper, culminating in a confrontation with her physical instructor, Mrs. Case. Despite holding a significant position on the team, Hester's inability to control her emotions creates a rift with her peers, particularly after a recent incident where she struck another girl. As the practice continues, whispers about her conduct and the damaging of gym equipment heighten the tension, leading to speculation about her involvement in the gymnasium's recent vandalism. The opening of the story sets the stage for Hester's inner struggles, her relationships with friends and rivals, and the upcoming challenges that will define her journey at Central High.
Harriet Pyne Grove
The S. P. Mystery
"The S. P. Mystery" by Harriet Pyne Grove is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around young girls who form a secret club filled with excitement, mystery, and adventure. Main character Jean Gordon is eager to transform the attic into a club room where she and her friends can participate in activities that blend fun with a spirit of exploration and camaraderie. The opening of the book introduces us to Jean as she rushes home with a vibrant enthusiasm for starting the club. She quickly seeks her mother's approval to use the attic for their gathering space and eagerly contacts her friends to share the news. The atmosphere is light and energetic as her friends gather to discuss their plans, and the idea of forming a secret society emerges when they realize the boys from their school have established one called the "Black Wizards." As the girls brainstorm names and activities for their own club, they settle on the moniker "Stealthy Prowlers," igniting a sense of adventure that promises to lead them into both fun and unusual challenges as they navigate the dynamics of friendship and curiosity.
Edith Lavell
The Girl Scouts' Canoe Trip
"The Girl Scouts' Canoe Trip" by Edith Lavell is a children’s novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of young Girl Scouts on an adventurous canoeing trip along Silver Creek, showcasing themes of friendship, teamwork, and the enjoyment of nature. The girls, led by their captain, Miss Phillips, are excited to learn new skills and take part in competitions, while also encountering unexpected challenges during their journey. At the start of the book, the girls gather at a rustic boathouse where they are introduced to their new canoes, eager for their upcoming adventure. The opening chapters detail their initial preparations, the choosing of canoe partners, and their first day on the water, highlighting the excitement and camaraderie among the scouts. Ruth and Marjorie, two of the main characters, embody the youthful enthusiasm and competitive spirit that drives the story forward. Tension arises when Ruth's eagerness for excitement leads to a canoe mishap, setting the stage for future adventures and challenges they will face as they travel down the creek.
Edith Lavell
Linda Carlton's Ocean Flight
"Linda Carlton's Ocean Flight" by Edith Lavell is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the ambitious and brave young aviatrix, Linda Carlton, who is determined to pursue her dreams of aviation against societal expectations. The narrative explores themes of adventure, courage, and the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated field during this time period. The beginning of the novel introduces Linda as a skilled pilot preparing for an important flying course whilst navigating personal conflicts with her family's expectations. After a routine check-up with Dr. Ginsley, she encounters a distraught mother, Mrs. Beach, whose child is in grave danger after swallowing a pin. Driven by compassion and bravery, Linda offers to fly them urgently to a surgeon in Philadelphia, showcasing her dedication to both her passion for flying and her willingness to save lives. As the fog thickens, she faces numerous challenges during the flight, which emphasizes her determination and commitment to her dream of aviation amidst the societal norms of her time.
Gertrude W. Morrison
The Girls of Central High on Track and Field Or, The Champions of the School League
"The Girls of Central High on Track and Field" by Gertrude W. Morrison is a fiction novel likely penned during the early 20th century. The story focuses on a lively group of seven girls at Central High, exploring themes of friendship, adventure, and competition in athletics, particularly track and field events. The characters display a mix of distinct personalities that engage in humorous banter, while the overarching narrative hints at competition and a need to help a mysterious Gypsy girl. At the start of the book, the group of friends embarks on a walking adventure during their Easter vacation, showcasing their camaraderie and spirited discussions. As they rest on a rock, they notice a girl in a yellow scarf running away, chased by an odd-looking man, sparking their curiosity and concern. When the girls perceive that the fleeing girl is likely of Gypsy descent, their interest deepens as they speculate about her situation. As the narrative unfolds, the girls face challenges related to both their athletic pursuits and the unfolding mystery surrounding the Gypsy girl, setting the stage for further exploration of friendship and bravery amidst the backdrop of their athletic ambitions.
L. Frank (Lyman Frank) Baum
Aunt Jane's Nieces out West
"Aunt Jane's Nieces Out West" by L. Frank Baum is a novel published in 1914. When Beth and Patsy accidentally become film extras in Hollywood, they're appalled by the crude state of cinema. But a visionary filmmaker convinces them that movies can educate and inspire. The cousins launch their own studio to create wholesome children's films, befriending starlet sisters and a mysterious man named A. Jones. When a jewel inspector accuses Jones of being an international thief, the family must prove his innocence before he's extradited.
George A. Warren
The Banner Boy Scouts; or, The Struggle for Leadership
"The Banner Boy Scouts; or, The Struggle for Leadership" by George A. Warren is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of boys in the town of Stanhope who band together to form a Boy Scout patrol led by their enthusiastic leader, Paul Morrison. The unfolding narrative promises themes of adventure, friendship, and the virtues of scouting as the boys embark on various outdoor exploits and face rivals in their community. At the start of the book, Paul gathers his friends in a secluded barn to discuss the idea of forming a Boy Scout troop, igniting excitement among them. As they plan their next steps, they are suddenly interrupted by Ted Slavin and his gang, who seem bent on causing trouble. The opening sets an adventurous tone, illustrating the camaraderie and spirited determination of the boys as they navigate various challenges, both from the environment and their rivals, while also hinting at deeper themes of honor and personal growth through scouting.
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