Subject
Haunted houses -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Harriet Pyne Grove
The Phantom Treasure
"The Phantom Treasure" by Harriet Pyne Grove is a novel written in the early 20th century. This coming-of-age story revolves around a fourteen-year-old girl named Janet Eldon, who discovers her mysterious heritage and grapples with her newfound identity after receiving a package that unveils her connection to her mother’s family. The narrative explores themes of family, belonging, and self-discovery, illustrating Janet's journey as she navigates her emotions and relationships in a school for girls. The opening of the story introduces Janet at her school, where she is intrigued by a mysterious package addressed to her—bearing an unfamiliar name that hints at a hidden lineage. As she uncovers the contents of the package, including personal belongings from her mother, Janet begins to learn about her family's past, including the existence of an uncle and the possibility of a new home. The initial chapters set a tone of excitement and curiosity for Janet’s exploration of her family's history, while simultaneously hinting at deeper family secrets yet to be revealed. This blend of mystery and personal growth establishes a compelling foundation for the narrative to unfold.
Mildred A. (Mildred Augustine) Wirt
Dan Carter and the Haunted Castle
"Dan Carter and the Haunted Castle" by Mildred A. Wirt is a children's adventure novel written in the mid-20th century." The story centers around a group of Cub Scouts, particularly focusing on young Dan Carter, as they embark on a thrilling project to stage a play based on the tales of Robin Hood. Set against the backdrop of a mysterious abandoned castle, the boys encounter rivalries, competition, and even hints of supernatural intrigue. "The opening of the book establishes the excitement amongst the Cub Scouts during one of their meetings, where they are introduced to a prize contest to create the best play." The characters are introduced through their interactions, highlighting Dan Carter's intelligence and his rivalry with Ross Langdon, who is determined to outdo him. Upon deciding to adapt a Robin Hood play for the contest, the group learns about an abandoned castle nearby that could serve as their setting. As they prepare for their adventure, Dan discovers a peculiar clue within the castle itself, leading to questions of possible hauntings and creating a sense of mystery that promises further excitement throughout the story.
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.
May Hollis Barton
Two girls and a mystery : $b or, The old house in the glen
No description available.
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.
Edward P. Hendrick
Copper Coleson's Ghost
"Copper Coleson's Ghost" by Edward P. Hendrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the fictional town of Truesdell, the story revolves around a group of teenage friends who become intrigued by the mysterious and abandoned Coleson house, rumored to be haunted. The main characters, including Ned Blake and his newly acquainted friend Dick Somers, embark on an adventure that intertwines their youthful camaraderie with elements of mystery and ghostly legends. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Ned Blake and his friends as they engage in typical teenage activities of summer, including climbing trees and working out in makeshift gyms. They notice a new boy, Dick Somers, moving into the neighborhood, and their initial interactions hint at both friendships and potential conflicts, particularly with a local bully named Dan Slade. The narrative quickly shifts as the boys head out to explore the legend of Copper Coleson’s mine and the strange happenings surrounding it, setting the stage for a blend of adventure and supernatural elements that promise to engage the reader throughout the story.
Joan Clark
Penny Nichols and the Mystery of the Lost Key
"Penny Nichols and the Mystery of the Lost Key" by Joan Clark is a mystery novel first published in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the protagonist Penelope "Penny" Nichols, a clever and adventurous young girl who finds herself entwined in a web of intrigue while assisting a new acquaintance, Rosanna Winters. Initially, Penny's life takes a dramatic turn after witnessing a theft in a department store, which introduces her to Rosanna, who has recently inherited an estate—leading Penny on a quest filled with potential dangers and hidden treasures. At the start of the story, Penny and her friend Susan are rushing to a jewelry counter just before the store closes, where Penny witnesses a man quickly stealing a valuable diamond ring. As she raises the alarm, she becomes involved with Rosanna, who is distressed after narrowly losing a significant letter and key that explain her inheritance from a deceased uncle. The opening chapters explore Penny's resourceful nature as she offers to drive Rosanna to meet a lawyer regarding her inheritance, creating a backdrop ripe for mystery as they discover that many others are also vying for the estate, each presenting their own claims and secrets. The mix of theft, inheritance, and personal drama sets the stage for an engaging mystery with a young detective at its heart.
Ross Kay
The Go Ahead Boys and the Mysterious Old House
"The Go Ahead Boys and the Mysterious Old House" by Ross Kay is a children’s adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of four boys—George Sanders, Fred Button, John Clemens, and Grant Jones—who are affectionately known as the Go Ahead Boys. The narrative invites readers to join their journey as they explore an old, supposedly haunted house in the countryside, sparking curiosity and bravery in the face of local myths and legends. The beginning of the book introduces the boys as they discuss the old Meeker House, known in their community for being haunted. Prompted by George's recounting of his own spooky experience at the house, the boys decide to investigate further despite their initial fears. As they approach the eerie dwelling, they encounter strange noises and bizarre occurrences that fuel their anxiety. A series of humorous exchanges among the boys and their interactions with Uncle Sim, the family’s longtime employee, add depth to their adventure, setting the stage for the unfolding mystery and excitement that promises to follow.
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