Subject
Florida -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Kirk Munroe
Through Swamp and Glade: A Tale of the Seminole War
"Through Swamp and Glade: A Tale of the Seminole War" by Kirk Munroe is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around the Seminole War, specifically focusing on the character Coacoochee, a young Seminole leader, who is caught between his people's struggle for survival and the encroaching dangers from white settlers and slave catchers. The story interweaves themes of friendship, betrayal, and the fight against oppression within the context of a tumultuous time in American history. At the start of the novel, the setting is vividly described as Florida's wilderness, where Coacoochee mourns his deceased twin sister, Allala. As he contemplates her spirit guiding him, he encounters Nita Pacheco, the daughter of a neighboring planter. The opening chapters introduce us to the oppressive circumstances facing the Seminoles following their forced removal by white settlers and the treachery embodied by slave traders like Troup Jeffers. The young Indian's path is haunted by the threat of violence as he grapples with changing alliances and the looming impact of the white man’s ambition on both his life and that of his friend Louis Pacheco.
Kirk Munroe
Canoemates: A Story of the Florida Reef and Everglades
"Canoemates: A Story of the Florida Reef and Everglades" by Kirk Munroe is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around the adventures of a young boy named Sumner Rankin, who is eager to escape his life of poverty in Key West and embarks on a canoe trip with his wealthy companions, the Mantons. The narrative unfolds in the picturesque yet challenging setting of the Florida Reef and the Everglades, highlighting themes of friendship, adventure, and self-discovery. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Sumner, a skilled sailor and a dreamer who feels trapped in a life of genteel poverty with his mother after the death of his naval officer father. His feelings of jealousy arise when he sees wealthy boys with beautiful cedar canoes, stirring a desire for adventure and exploration within him. As he encounters the Mantons, who are visiting Key West for a canoeing expedition, Sumner's pride initially leads him to refuse their offer to join. However, incidents involving storms and canoe mishaps ultimately forge a path into adventure, testing Sumner's character and skills as they navigate the exquisite yet perilous waters of the reef.
Robert Shaler
The Boy Scouts of the Life Saving Crew
"The Boy Scouts of the Life Saving Crew" by Robert Shaler is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of young Boy Scouts who engage in various rescue missions and encounters with danger while they're on vacation in Florida. The main characters, Alec Sands, Billy Worth, and Chester Brownell, showcase bravery, teamwork, and resourcefulness as they navigate challenges that arise during their vacation. At the start of the narrative, the boys are on their way to Santario, a town on the Florida coast, where they are visiting Alec's family. During their journey, they encounter a girl in distress on a railway trestle; a freight train approaches, and she is unable to get off the trestle in time. The Scouts spring into action to rescue her, displaying quick thinking and courage as they set off in pursuit, with one Scout risking his safety to ensure her well-being. This opening sets the stage for their adventures and establishes themes of bravery and the importance of the Boy Scout ideals as they engage in life-saving missions throughout their stay.
Ralph Delahaye Paine
The Wrecking Master
"The Wrecking Master" by Ralph Delahaye Paine is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the adventures and challenges faced by Captain Jim Wetherly, the master of the tug "Resolute", and his young deckhand, Dan Frazier. Set against the backdrop of the perilous Florida Reef, the narrative explores themes of loyalty, suspicion, and the moral dilemmas of wrecking masters who salvage ships in distress, bringing to light the darker side of maritime trade. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Captain Wetherly and Dan Frazier as they navigate the foggy harbor of Pensacola after rescuing a dismasted bark. During this tense moment, they collide with a small boat, which leads to the rescue of two men, one being Jeremiah Pringle, a notorious wrecking master. Suspicions arise about Pringle's actions and those of Captain Bruce of the "Kenilworth", who seems to have ulterior motives. As Dan grapples with the implications of his uncle's suspicions and his friendship with Pringle's son, the stage is set for a gripping tale of adventure, intrigue, and the moral quandaries presented in the world of wrecking.
Noel Sainsbury
Bill Bolton—Flying Midshipman
"Bill Bolton—Flying Midshipman" by Lieutenant Noel Sainsbury, Jr. is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Bill Bolton, a young midshipman, who finds himself in the midst of a hurricane while piloting a seaplane with his father. As they navigate through a perilous storm, they eventually crash and become entangled in a dangerous adventure on an uninhabited island filled with criminals and peril. At the start of the book, readers are introduced to Bill Bolton and his father as they struggle to maintain control of their amphibious plane against the ferocious winds of an impending hurricane. After managing a harrowing landing on the Bay of Florida, they experience a sudden turn of events that leads to their capture by armed men upon reaching the shore. The opening sets the stage for their subsequent entrapment in a sinister plot involving kidnapping and forced labor, drawing intriguing connections to themes of resilience, bravery, and the fight for freedom amidst overwhelming adversities as Bill grapples with his situation.
Ambrose Newcomb
Eagles of the Sky; Or, With Jack Ralston Along the Air Lanes
"Eagles of the Sky; Or, With Jack Ralston Along the Air Lanes" by Ambrose Newcomb is a thrilling adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Jack Ralston and his friend Gabe Perkiser, who are tasked by the Secret Service to combat smuggling activities along the Gulf Coast of Florida. Armed with a speedy amphibian plane, they embark on a high-stakes mission filled with danger, clever tactics, and the excitement of aerial operations. The opening of the narrative introduces Jack and Perk as they prepare for their assignment, eager for action as they aim to dismantle a smuggling ring. They discuss their past experiences and gather intelligence on their targets while setting off in their plane, presenting a sense of camaraderie and determination. As they navigate the challenges posed by smugglers using boats and planes, the groundwork is laid for an adventurous tale where they employ their wits to outsmart criminals and protect the coast, all while dealing with the unique aspects of flying and boarding a captured rum-runner.
Frank R. Stockton
Captain Chap; or, The Rolling Stones
"Captain Chap; or, The Rolling Stones" by Frank R. Stockton is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows three boys—Philip Berkeley, Chapman Webster (Chap), and Phineas Poole (Phœnix)—who set off on an exciting adventure involving a tug-boat voyage and subsequent escapades. Their youthful enthusiasm and ambition take them into unexpected situations, highlighting themes of friendship and adventure. At the start of the novel, the boys find themselves in an extended summer vacation while their school is closed due to their teacher's illness. They quickly seize the opportunity for a thrilling trip on a tug-boat, which leads to a series of incidents including a mishap at sea that forces them onto a rescue steamer. As their journey unfolds, they meet interesting characters, encounter wildlife, and tackle challenges that test their resourcefulness. The opening sets a whimsical yet adventurous tone as Captain Chap emerges as a natural leader eager to guide his friends through their escapades.
Edward G. (Edward Gheen) Cheyney
Scott Burton and the Timber Thieves
"Scott Burton and the Timber Thieves" by Edward G. Cheyney is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the protagonist Scott Burton, a resourceful ranger, who has been assigned to investigate a series of timber thefts in the Okalatchee forest. As he navigates the wild landscapes of Florida, he encounters various characters while piecing together the mystery of the disappearing logs. The opening of the novel introduces Scott Burton as he reflects on a letter that has brought him to Florida for this special assignment. He settles into a quaint cabin by the Gulf of Mexico, awaiting the arrival of his supervisor, Mr. Graham. As Scott ponders his task of tracking down timber thieves, readers are given insight into his past accomplishments and a hint of the challenges that lie ahead. The narrative also explores the lush and exotic environment of the region, setting the stage for an adventurous mystery that unfolds within the contrasts of nature and burgeoning intrigue.
Clarence Young
The Motor Boys in Strange Waters; or, Lost in a Floating Forest
"The Motor Boys in Strange Waters; or, Lost in a Floating Forest" by Clarence Young is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure story follows a group of boys known as the "Motor Boys" who are excited to spend their summer vacation exploring. The main characters, Jerry Hopkins, Ned Slade, and Bob Baker, embark on a journey filled with unforeseen challenges and mysteries, beginning with a plan to travel to Florida. The opening portion of the story introduces the boys as they revel in the onset of their vacation after a long school year. They entertain ideas of adventure, leading to their decision to take a trip in their motorboat, the Dartaway. Early discussions reveal their rivalry with a local bully, Noddy Nixon, who boasts of a cocoanut plantation he claims to own in Florida. As the three friends unwind in lively banter, they also meet Professor Snodgrass, who becomes an important companion during their travels. The narrative sets the stage for their journey, teasing future excitement and mishaps as the boys prepare for their expedition.
Clara Ingram Judson
Mary Jane Down South
"Mary Jane Down South" by Clara Ingram Judson is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the adventures of young Mary Jane as she embarks on a family trip to the southern United States, experiencing new sights, sounds, and activities. The charming tale features Mary Jane and her sister Alice as they explore various destinations, making it a delightful read for young audiences interested in adventure and discovery. The opening of the story introduces us to Mary Jane, who is filled with excitement and anticipation about an upcoming trip South with her family. As the characters prepare for their journey to Florida, we are shown the hustle and bustle of packing and planning, emphasizing the joy and sense of adventure that comes with travel. The narrative captures Mary Jane's boundless enthusiasm, her imaginative conversations with her sister, and her eagerness to experience the palm trees and alligators she has seen in pictures. The lively interactions among family members set a playful tone, highlighting the themes of curiosity and exploration that will resonate throughout their journey.
Louis Arundel
Motor Boat Boys Among the Florida Keys; Or, The Struggle for the Leadership
"Motor Boat Boys Among the Florida Keys; Or, The Struggle for the Leadership" by Louis Arundel is a fictional adventure story likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows a group of boys who embark on a thrilling journey through the Florida Keys in their motorboats, engaged in a friendly rivalry centered on fishing prowess. The main characters include Nick Longfellow, a chubby boy eager to prove himself against his rival Jimmy Brannigan, as well as their companions Jack Stormways, George Rollins, and others who contribute to the group dynamic and the unfolding adventures. The opening of the story sets the scene with Nick preparing for a fishing competition against Jimmy, who has already caught a channel bass and generated some playful rivalry between the two. As Nick struggles with his cumbersome boat, the reader is introduced to the group of friends and their distinctive personalities. The narrative quickly escalates into excitement as Nick unexpectedly hooks a shark, leading to chaotic moments with his friends attempting to rescue him amid their ongoing competition. This set-up establishes the tone of camaraderie and adventure, making it clear that the boys' trip is sure to be filled with fun, challenges, and perhaps a touch of danger.
H. Irving (Harrie Irving) Hancock
The Motor Boat Club in Florida; or, Laying the Ghost of Alligator Swamp
"The Motor Boat Club in Florida; or, Laying the Ghost of Alligator Swamp" by H. Irving Hancock is an adventurous novel written in the early 20th century. This tale follows the young boat captains, Tom Halstead and Joe Dawson, as they navigate the treacherous waters of Florida and encounter supernatural mysteries while ensuring the safety of their passengers. Central to the story is Tom Halstead, a capable and determined young skipper, who faces both natural and potentially sinister challenges throughout their voyage. The opening of the novel introduces us to the motor cruiser "Restless" and its crew, featuring Mr. and Mrs. Tremaine, young heiress Ida Silsbee, and the enigmatic Oliver Dixon, among others. As the characters embark on their journey, they quickly find themselves caught in a sudden storm. During the tumultuous night, Tom and Joe must ensure the safety of everyone aboard while grappling with strange occurrences and feelings of distrust, particularly regarding Dixon's behavior. Tension is heightened as a mysterious phantom related to "Alligator Swamp" looms in the backdrop, setting the stage for an adventurous and thrilling narrative filled with conflict and camaraderie.
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