Subject
Gangsters -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Mildred A. (Mildred Augustine) Wirt
Behind the Green Door
"Behind the Green Door" by Mildred A. Wirt is a young adult mystery novel written in the early 1940s. The story revolves around Penny Parker, an adventurous and spirited girl who embarks on a skiing trip to the quaint winter resort of Pine Top, only to find herself tangled in a web of intrigue and potential danger surrounding her father's libel case against a wealthy hotel owner. As she explores her surroundings and gathers clues, Penny's resourcefulness and determination to protect her father from this threat come to the forefront. The opening portion introduces readers to Penny Parker in a lively setting as she prepares for her skiing adventure while maintaining a deep sense of familial loyalty. Shortly after arriving at Pine Top, she learns of the libel suit against her father and the cunning businessman, Harvey Maxwell, which sets the stage for her quest for justice. Penny's interactions with her father, the housekeeper Mrs. Weems, fellow travelers, and especially her encounter with a mysterious girl locked in a cabin introduce essential elements of suspense. This narrative establishes an enticing blend of carefree fun and serious undertones, making readers eager to follow Penny on her engaging and precarious journey as she unwittingly finds herself at the heart of a puzzling mystery.
Mildred A. (Mildred Augustine) Wirt
Clue of the Silken Ladder
"Clue of the Silken Ladder" by Mildred A. Wirt is a mystery novel written in the early 1940s. The story centers around Penny Parker, a spirited and adventurous young girl, as she navigates a series of puzzling events, including the acquisition of an old car, a friend's inheritance, and an encounter that hints at a deeper mystery involving a silk ladder found in a curio shop. This initial outing sets the stage for Penny's mix of mischief and inquisitiveness, promising readers a blend of excitement and intrigue as the plot unfolds. At the start of the book, Penny finds herself tangled in parking woes and a penchant for adventure after purchasing an old car, Leaping Lena. During a trip to a curio shop, she discovers a mysterious silk ladder that intrigues her. As she interacts with her friend Louise, they encounter a variety of challenges, including a car accident that leads to a fine and unexpected debt. The stage is set for Penny to follow her curiosity, becoming embroiled in a looming mystery that intertwines with her friend's newfound fortune and the shadowy figures connected to the silk ladder. This opening effectively introduces readers to Penny's character, her relationship with those around her, and hints at the thrilling escapades to come.
Dorothy Wayne
Dorothy Dixon Solves the Conway Case
"Dorothy Dixon Solves the Conway Case" by Dorothy Wayne is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Dorothy Dixon, a young aviator, and her friend Betty Mayo as they find themselves in precarious situations while investigating a troubling case involving the Conway family and a mysterious letter. Through thrilling escapades, daring escapes, and a touch of humor, the duo navigates the challenges that arise from their investigative journey. The opening of the novel introduces Dorothy and Betty in a dire situation as their plane runs low on fuel during a storm, forcing them to land in a remote area. As they exit the aircraft, the girls express fears of wildlife and the dangers of their surroundings. Dorothy's determination shines through as she comforts Betty and takes charge of their predicament. Soon, they discover a nearby house and decide to investigate, leading them to witness a young man being threatened by two men. As they decide to help him, the tension builds, and the plot hints at deeper mysteries unfolding within the Conway family, setting the stage for further twists and turns in their adventure.
Dorothy Wayne
Dorothy Dixon and the Mystery Plane
"Dorothy Dixon and the Mystery Plane" by Dorothy Wayne is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the adventurous protagonist, Dorothy Dixon, a keen aviatrix with a knack for solving mysteries, as she investigates a suspicious seaplane that has been flying over her beach club repeatedly. With her friend Terry, Dorothy finds herself embroiled in danger when their curiosity leads them to confront a bearded aviator, ultimately tying their adventure to a larger mystery of diamond smuggling. The opening of the novel sets the stage on a summer day at a beach club, where Dorothy and her friends enjoy a carefree afternoon until they spot a mysterious plane that appears to be in distress. As Dorothy displays her bravery and keen interest in aviation, she engages the pilot in conversation, only to be met with hostility. Following a series of comedic but alarming encounters, including an altercation with the aviator that turns physical, Dorothy reveals her determination to uncover the truth behind the plane and its enigmatic pilot, setting off a chain of thrilling events that lead to Terry's mysterious disappearance and Dorothy’s own harrowing experiences with the smuggling gang. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Dorothy's instincts and her resourceful nature will be crucial in solving the mystery and saving those she cares about.
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
The Arrow of Fire A Mystery Story for Boys
"The Arrow of Fire" by Roy J. Snell is a boys' mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Johnny Thompson, a young man recently returned to his native Chicago after three years of adventure, who quickly finds himself embroiled in crime-fighting. With engaging characters like Drew Lane, a young detective, and a host of intriguing criminal activity in the city, the novel blends elements of mystery with the thrill of detective work and the camaraderie of unexpected friendships. At the start of the novel, Johnny arrives back in Chicago aboard a freighter, feeling a mixture of nostalgia and anticipation for the adventures that await him. After meeting Drew Lane, who appears to lead a double life as an ordinary man and a detective, Johnny is drawn into a world filled with excitement and danger. The opening chapters establish Johnny's determination to take an active role in crime prevention as he becomes a witness in a significant case involving pickpockets, while a mysterious figure with a gun looms in the shadows, hinting at further peril. The narrative sets the stage for a thrilling journey as Johnny navigates the conflicts and challenges of city life, embracing his newfound responsibilities.
Dorothy Wayne
Dorothy Dixon Wins Her Wings
"Dorothy Dixon Wins Her Wings" by Dorothy Wayne is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a spirited sixteen-year-old girl named Dorothy Dixon, who exhibits a passion for adventure, particularly in sailing and flying. The narrative begins with her brash decision to sail in potentially dangerous weather, showcasing her determination and independent spirit, which sets the tone for her thrilling journey into aviation. The opening of the novel presents Dorothy's encounter with Bill Bolton, a young aviator and her neighbor, as she prepares to set sail. Despite his warnings about an impending storm, Dorothy's pride leads her to ignore his advice and venture out on the water. This choice results in a harrowing experience during which her sloop capsizes, leading to a dramatic rescue by Bill, who arrives in an amphibious plane. The beginning establishes the relationship between the two characters, setting the stage for both romantic tension and shared adventure, as they face challenges together in the aftermath of her ordeal. This mix of adventure, courage, and an emerging partnership invites readers into a world of youthful ambition and the quest for knowledge in the skies.
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