Subject
Ghosts -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Jane Pentzer Myers
Stories of Enchantment
"Stories of Enchantment" by Jane Pentzer Myers is a collection of children's stories written in the early 20th century. The book weaves a magical tapestry of narratives where children embark on whimsical adventures, often encountering fairies, ghosts, and other fantastical beings. The stories feature young protagonists, exploring themes of magic, identity, and the interplay between fantasy and reality. The opening of the collection sets the stage for enchanted tales, beginning with the story of "The Ghost Flower, or the White Blackbird." It follows a little girl named Snow-flower, who, after surviving a massacre of her family, is raised by a kind Indian couple. As Snow-flower grows, the spirit of her adoptive father guides her towards her true heritage, leading her on a journey that intertwines themes of loss, belonging, and the melding of the real and the supernatural. The rich imagery and emotional depth hint at the mystical experiences that await in the other stories of the collection.
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
The Galloping Ghost A Mystery Story for Boys
"The Galloping Ghost" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for boys written in the early 20th century. The book follows the protagonist, Red Rodgers, a college football star known as the "Red Rover," who has been kidnapped and taken to a mysterious island. As he navigates his unexpected captivity, he encounters comradery in another captive, Berley Todd, who becomes an ally in their quest for escape. The beginning of the story establishes the premise of Red's kidnapping, detailing his bewilderment as he wakes in an unfamiliar place after being abducted from a train. He recalls his life as a football player and his aspirations intertwining with the urgency of escaping his captors. As he contemplates the situation, he also overhears a tense conversation involving another captive, a girl named Berley, who refuses to comply with her captors’ demands. Their shared predicament leads to the formation of a bond as they strategize an escape from the island, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure filled with danger and growing camaraderie.
Carol Norton
The Phantom Yacht
"The Phantom Yacht" by Carol Norton is a mystery and adventure novel for young adults, likely written in the early 20th century. Set against the backdrop of a quaint seaside community, the story follows the central character Dories Moore as she grapples with the emotions of losing her beloved friend Nann Sibbett to a move to Boston and facing a daunting journey to live with her estranged Great-Aunt Jane at the eerie Siquaw Point. The book outlines themes of friendship, longing, and the sense of adventure intertwined with elements of the supernatural. At the start of the novel, Dories is portrayed as a melancholic girl, mourning the impending departure of her best friend Nann. Despite their hopeful vows of sisterhood, Dories feels abandoned and distressed about her uncertain future, which includes a forced stay with her aunt, whom she perceives as unpleasant and wealthy. As the girls share tender goodbyes, the plot delves into Dories’ feelings of rebellion against her circumstances, including their family's financial struggles and the mysterious history of her aunt’s home. The opening intricately sets the stage for the adventure that is to come, hinting at spooky elements with mention of ghosts and the haunting legacy of Darlina, the last occupant of the now-ruined old house that is said to harbor secrets.
Edith Lavell
Linda Carlton's Perilous Summer
"Linda Carlton's Perilous Summer" by Edith Lavell is a novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the adventures of Linda Carlton, a young aviation enthusiast, as she navigates challenges and encounters mysterious situations during her summer in Green Falls. The story showcases the importance of friendship, bravery, and the pursuit of truth against a backdrop of thrilling aerial exploits. At the start of the novel, Linda and her friend Dot embark on a picnic in their autogiro, the "Ladybug." During their flight, they witness a tragic hit-and-run accident, which prompts them to land and provide aid to a young girl, who is left memory-less and confused. As they attempt to uncover her identity, they face various obstacles, including the mysterious appearance of a woman claiming to be the girl's aunt. The beginning sets the tone for a mix of adventure, personal growth, and an evolving mystery that will keep readers engaged.
Margaret Sutton
The Puzzle in the Pond A Judy Bolton Mystery
"The Puzzle in the Pond" by Margaret Sutton is a mystery novel likely written in the mid-20th century. The story centers around the young and adventurous Judy Bolton as she navigates various mysteries surrounding her life in a small town, including the theft of a friend’s typewriter and the unsettling discovery of a familiar piece of furniture in a beaver dam. At the start of the novel, Judy is busy preparing an exhibit for the library while reminiscing about her grandmother's treasures. Her day takes a turn for the dramatic when her friend Holly arrives, frantic over her stolen typewriter, prompting Judy to join her on a quest to recover it. As they chase after potential suspects and piece together clues, their adventure leads them to unexpected encounters, including a strange shopkeeper and a mysterious boy watching beavers. The opening sets the foundation for Judy's determined and resourceful character as she tackles the challenges that come her way, hinting at the deeper puzzles waiting to be unraveled.
Cleo F. Garis
The Mystery of Jockey Hollow Arden Blake Mystery Series #2
"The Mystery of Jockey Hollow" by Cleo F. Garis is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows three college friends, Arden Blake, Terry Landry, and Sim Westover, as they embark on a thrilling adventure centered around the haunted and mysterious Sycamore Hall. As they explore the area, which has ties to the Revolutionary War, the girls encounter supernatural elements and uncover a deeper mystery involving ghostly inhabitants and the fate of the historic mansion. At the start of the narrative, the three friends are excitedly preparing to ride out to Jockey Hollow. They are intrigued by tales of the historic Sycamore Hall, rumored to be haunted. During their initial ride, they experience a fright when workmen, seemingly scared by ghostly occurrences, run out of the mansion, suggesting that something strange is indeed afoot. The girls decide to investigate further, their curiosity piqued by stories of a wounded soldier and the courageous woman who had hidden him during the war. Their curiosity unfolds into an intricate mystery involving the ghost stories of the area, lost deeds, and the fate of Granny Howe, the keeper of its history.
Kay Lyttleton
Jean Craig Grows Up
"Jean Craig Grows Up" by Kay Lyttleton is a novel written in the late 20th century. The story centers on Jean Craig and her family as they navigate the challenges of life, particularly focusing on Jean’s transition from childhood into the responsibilities of young adulthood amidst family crises. The narrative explores themes of resilience and adaptation as the Craigs face their father's illness and the ensuing changes in their living situation. The opening of the novel introduces us to the Craig family in a moment of levity, as they make preparations for a party while also grappling with the impending return of their ailing father from the hospital. The dynamics among the siblings are highlighted, showcasing Jean's sense of responsibility as she takes on a caretaker role. Interwoven with these initial moments of domestic life are hints of underlying worry and concern for their father's health, which ultimately lead to conversations about a significant change: relocating to a new home that offers a fresh start for the family. The stage is set for their journey of transition, resilience, and growth against the backdrop of familial love and support.
Frances Hodgson Burnett
In the Closed Room
"In the Closed Room" by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a novel written during the late 19th century, showcasing the author’s signature blend of fantasy and reality. This book delves into themes of childhood innocence, the search for identity, and the interconnection between life and the afterlife. The story primarily unfolds through the experiences of a young girl named Judith, who feels a profound sense of displacement from her mundane surroundings. The narrative follows Judith, a frail and curious child living in a cramped apartment with her hardworking parents. As she grapples with her solitude and the chaotic noise of city life, she discovers a magical "Closed Room" in a nearby abandoned house, where she meets the ghostly presence of a little girl resembling Aunt Hester, her deceased ancestor. Their interactions reveal a world of imagination and a longing for connection that transcends the limitations of Judith's reality. The book beautifully portrays Judith's internal struggle and her journey toward discovering her true self and the wonders that lie beyond her everyday life, culminating in a touching exploration of love, loss, and the bittersweet nature of childhood memories.
Morgan Scott
Oakdale Boys in Camp
"Oakdale Boys in Camp" by Morgan Scott is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of boys from Oakdale who embark on a camping expedition at Phantom Lake, filled with youthful adventure and camaraderie. Key characters include the enthusiastic Sleuth Piper, who contrasts with his more down-to-earth companions, as they navigate both the joys of camping and the unexpected challenges they encounter. At the start of the book, the boys are introduced as they journey to their campsite, establishing their individual personalities through playful banter and a shared excitement for outdoor activities. Sleuth Piper's imaginative nature contrasts with his friends' practicality, leading to humorous interactions as they prepare their camp. Their setting beside the tranquil Phantom Lake promises adventure, showcasing an idealistic view of boyhood and the beauty of nature during their summer outing.
E. M. Waterworth
Our Den
"Our Den" by E. M. Waterworth is a children's novel written during the late 19th century. The story focuses on the adventures of Edric, a boy with a physical disability, as he navigates life when his lively cousins come to stay with him at his family's rural farm. The book likely explores themes of family, friendship, courage, and the transformative power of companionship and play. In "Our Den," Edric feels constrained by his condition and often prefers the company of books to that of other children. However, when his cousins—three boisterous boys and their spirited sister—arrive unexpectedly, he is thrust into a whirlwind of excitement and energy that challenges his perceptions of his own limitations. As they explore their new environment, including an intriguing oak chest in a fort-like tower room, the group encounters various adventures that test their resilience and ingenuity. Through these experiences, Edric gradually learns to engage more fully with the world around him, ultimately leading to personal growth and deeper family connections, particularly with his uncle, whose return and hidden past add a layer of mystery and resolution to the story.
Capwell Wyckoff
The Mystery Hunters at the Haunted Lodge
"The Mystery Hunters at the Haunted Lodge" by Capwell Wyckoff is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of four high school friends—Barry Garrison, Kent Marple, and the Ford twins, Mac and Tim—who earn the title of “mystery hunters” after solving a case of stolen items at their school. They decide to embark on an adventure during their winter vacation to uncover the secrets behind a supposedly haunted lodge located on Lake Arrowtip, a challenge that sparks their curiosity and adventurous spirit. At the start of the book, the atmosphere is set at Cloverfield High School as the boys excitedly discuss their recent popularity due to their detective work. The plot thickens when Barry's father mentions the haunted hunting lodge, previously owned by a wealthy client, which has become notorious for ghostly disturbances and a mysterious disappearance. Intrigued by the challenge, Barry and his friends plan an expedition to investigate the lodge and find out the truth behind the hauntings. However, as they set off on their journey, they encounter peculiar events and hints of deeper mysteries, leading them further into uncharted territory filled with suspense and unexpected developments. The opening lays the groundwork for a thrilling adventure that promises to blend mystery, friendship, and the excitement of discovery.
Harry Castlemon
The Haunted Mine
"The Haunted Mine" by Harry Castlemon is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around two young boys, Julian Gray and Jack Sheldon, who are orphans trying to make a living through honest work. Their lives take a thrilling turn when Julian purchases a mysterious box at an auction within an express office, which he believes contains valuable papers that could lead to a hidden gold mine. As the boys navigate their discovery, they grapple with the moral obligation to find the rightful owner of the treasure, a man named S.W. Haberstro. At the start of the tale, Julian impulsively buys the box during an auction of unclaimed goods, despite the warnings from his friend Jack. Intrigued by the box's contents, which turn out to include an old letter and maps detailing a potentially lucrative mine, they deduce that the treasure might be theirs unless they locate Haberstro first. The opening chapters set the stage for a moral conflict as the boys consider the implications of keeping the wealth versus the imperative of seeking out its original owner. This premise is further complicated by the appearance of Casper Nevins, a shifty character who complicates their journey with his dubious intentions. Overall, the beginning of the novel establishes a blend of adventure, ethical dilemmas, and the camaraderie of young friends navigating life's challenges.
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