Subject
Houseboats -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
St. George Rathborne
The House Boat Boys; Or, Drifting Down to the Sunny South
"The House Boat Boys; Or, Drifting Down to the Sunny South" by St. George Rathborne is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story follows two close friends, Maurice Pemberton and Thad Tucker, who embark on an adventurous journey down the Ohio River with dreams of reaching New Orleans. Facing challenges from their home situations and encouraged by a letter from Maurice's uncle, they decide to float south on a makeshift shanty-boat, promising excitement and camaraderie as they navigate the unpredictable waters. The opening of the novel introduces the characters and sets the stage for their journey. After Maurice learns that he will soon be homeless, Thad encourages him to join him on an adventurous trip down the river, spurred by Maurice's uncle’s invitation to join him on a tramp steamer in New Orleans. The boys excitedly prepare for their voyage as they hope to enjoy nature and the thrill of exploration together. However, they quickly encounter the reality of their undertaking when they find themselves struggling against the challenges of navigation and weather, unveiling a mix of friendship, resourcefulness, and youthful enthusiasm that marks the beginning of their adventure.
Grace Brooks Hill
The Corner House Girls on a Houseboat How they sailed away, what happened on the voyage, and what was discovered
"The Corner House Girls on a Houseboat" by Grace Brooks Hill is a novel aimed at a young audience, likely written in the early 20th century. This charming story follows the lives of four sisters—Ruth, Agnes, Dot, and Tess—who embark on new adventures during their summer vacation, particularly around the intriguing setting of a houseboat. The girls’ plans are intertwined with themes of family, friendship, and youthful mischief, as they navigate various escapades brought on by their spirited personalities. At the start of the book, we find the Corner House bustling with excitement as Ruth is busy preparing for a luncheon gathering with friends to discuss forming a Civic Betterment Club. The scene quickly escalates as Ruth's younger sisters, Dot and Tess, get themselves into a commotion involving a barrel, resulting in Dot’s beloved doll being crushed. Tension builds as the narrative introduces Neale, a local boy with news about his father, which adds a layer of emotion to the unfolding events. Amid the humorous chaos, the sisters contemplate an upcoming houseboat adventure, which promises further excitement and challenges, not just with their personal dynamics but also within their broader community engagements. The opening sets the stage for a delightful exploration of youthful ambition, community involvement, and the various dilemmas that come with both.
Harold L. (Harold Leland) Goodwin
The Flying Stingaree: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story
"The Flying Stingaree: A Rick Brant Science-Adventure Story" by Harold L. Goodwin is a science-adventure novel written in the early 1960s. The story revolves around Rick Brant, a curious and scientifically-minded teenager, who embarks on an exploration of the mysterious flying stingaree spotted over Chesapeake Bay, alongside his friend Don Scott and an intelligence agent named Steve Ames. As they delve into the enigma, they stumble upon local legends and the disappearance of a man presumed taken by this otherworldly creature, leading to a thrilling investigation. The opening of "The Flying Stingaree" introduces the protagonists as they navigate the waters of Chesapeake Bay in a houseboat named the "Spindrift". Caught in a storm, Rick and Scotty anchor in a cove where they witness a mysterious flying object resembling a stingray. This encounter piques their scientific curiosity, prompting them to investigate further, following clues that suggest a connection to recent abduction stories in the area. Their journey sets the stage for a suspenseful quest to uncover the truth behind the sightings, giving readers a taste of adventure filled with intriguing local lore and the promise of high-voltage excitement.
W. Crispin (William Crispin) Sheppard
The Rambler Club's house-boat
"The Rambler Club's House-boat" by W. Crispin Sheppard is an adventurous novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of boys, led by Bob Somers and his friend Jack Lyons, as they embark on an exciting trip along the historic Hudson River aboard a houseboat named the "Gray Gull." Their journey is filled with challenges, friendships, and the exploration of the river's beauty, making it a delightful tale for younger readers and adventure enthusiasts alike. The opening of the novel introduces the central characters as they arrive in New York excited to meet Jack Lyons, who invites them to join his crew on the "Gray Gull." As they discuss their plans and previous adventures, they are informed about an important twist in their journey involving a former tutor in distress, leading to new friendships. The boys are enthusiastic about their upcoming trip, mingling humor with camaraderie, while also addressing minor misunderstandings that foreshadow the adventures ahead. Overall, the beginning sets a light and adventurous tone, suggesting a blend of friendship, excitement, and youthful energy as they navigate their way into new experiences on the water.
Amy D. V. Chalmers
Madge Morton's Victory
"Madge Morton's Victory" by Amy D. V. Chalmers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Madge Morton, a spirited young girl who has just graduated from Miss Tolliver's Select School for Girls. As the valedictorian, Madge grapples with her responsibilities and the pressures of friendship, particularly with her best friend Phyllis, while also embarking on new adventures during their summer holidays. The opening of the book sets the stage for a pivotal moment in Madge's life as she faces the excitement and anxiety of graduation day. Her internal conflict about being chosen as valedictorian despite her friend Phyllis's deserving performance highlights themes of friendship, fairness, and self-identity. As the commencement ceremony unfolds, Madge experiences stage fright but ultimately delivers her speech, supported by her friends and family. By introducing moments of charm, humor, and tension, the beginning suggests that Madge is on the cusp of new adventures that will challenge her bravery, resilience, and connection to those around her.
Laura Lee Hope
The Bobbsey Twins on a Houseboat
"The Bobbsey Twins on a Houseboat" by Laura Lee Hope is a children's novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the Bobbsey twins—Bert and Nan, Flossie and Freddie—as they embark on a summer adventure aboard a houseboat called the Bluebird. The book promises a blend of family fun, exciting encounters, and the innocent misadventures typical of children in a pastoral setting. The opening of the novel introduces the characters and establishes a playful tone. The Bobbsey family is depicted engaging in a lighthearted dilemma involving a missing harness for their pet dog, Snap, and the excitement builds when they learn about their father's purchase of a houseboat. As the children discover these delightful tidbits and get involved in humorous antics—like Freddie's ill-fated attempt to ride his older brother's bicycle—the stage is set for a summer characterized by friendship, exploration, and the thrill of aquatic life. The narrative effectively captures the spirited essence of childhood, making it an appealing read for young audiences who enjoy tales of adventure and familial bonds.
Amy D. V. Chalmers
Madge Morton, Captain of the Merry Maid
"Madge Morton, Captain of the Merry Maid" by Amy D.V. Chalmers is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows the adventurous teenager Madge Morton as she embarks on a summer vacation aboard a houseboat with her friends. Filled with youthful exuberance and spirited plans, the story presents themes of friendship, adventure, and the joys of self-discovery. The opening of the story introduces Madge, who is frustrated by her summer plans that threaten to separate her from her friends. However, upon discovering she won't have to visit her cousin Louisa after all, her spirits lift. She proposes a creative solution for the summer: renting a houseboat for a vacation on the water with her friends. The excitement builds as Madge and her companions embark on the hunt for a suitable houseboat, exploring their surroundings and developing their plans, laying the groundwork for the adventure-filled summer ahead. Their journey soon takes unexpected turns, highlighting the bonds of friendship and sharing challenges, such as dealing with personal conflicts and mysterious circumstances.
Evelyn Raymond
Dorothy on a House Boat
"Dorothy on a House Boat" by Evelyn Raymond is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Dorothy Calvert, a spirited young girl who has had a life filled with adventures and new beginnings. After receiving an unexpected gift of a house boat named "The Water Lily," Dorothy embarks on a journey that promises fun, exploration, and the introduction of new friends and experiences. The opening of the novel introduces us to Dorothy and her great-aunt Betty as they react to the astonishing news of the house boat gift. Dorothy's joy is palpable, and her quick enthusiasm for sailing and adventure shines through, while Aunt Betty is initially skeptical about the practicality of such a gift. The story sets the stage for their preparations to explore the boat, the diverse group of characters that will join them, and the promise of new adventures on the water, highlighting themes of friendship, generosity, and the spirit of exploration. As Dorothy begins to plan her cruise, she invites a mix of friends and acquaintances onto the boat, hinting at the social dynamics and potential conflicts that may arise during their journey.
Quincy Allen
The Outdoor Chums on a Houseboat; Or, The Rivals of the Mississippi
"The Outdoor Chums on a Houseboat; Or, The Rivals of the Mississippi" by Quincy Allen is a young adult adventure novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows four college boys known as the Outdoor Chums—Frank Langdon, Will Milton, Jerry Wallington, and Bluff Masters—as they embark on a river journey down the Mississippi. The narrative sets the stage for an exciting summer filled with outdoor adventures, rivalries, and unexpected encounters. At the start of the tale, the friends are buzzing with excitement as Will reveals that his Uncle Felix has invited them to take a houseboat down the river. The situation quickly evolves, and the boys prepare for the adventure ahead, despite having a wistful idea of an extravagant boat. However, the reality is much more modest, which leads to amusing banter among the group. As they set off, they are alert to the potential dangers of the river and unpredictable characters, particularly a mysterious figure named Marcus Stackpole, about whom Uncle Felix has expressed concern. The opening chapters deftly introduce the characters, their camaraderie, and the thrilling elements of youth and adventure, setting the stage for what promises to be a summer filled with challenges and discoveries.
Amy D. V. Chalmers
Madge Morton's Secret
"Madge Morton's Secret" by Amy D. V. Chalmers is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the ambitious Madge Morton, who navigates her youthful adventures against the backdrop of societal expectations and personal relationships. As she prepares for her second houseboat party with friends, Madge discovers mysteries from her past that intertwine with her present challenges. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Madge as she enjoys a peaceful morning reading in an apple tree, completely unaware of her cousin Eleanor's desperate search for her. The narrative quickly establishes Madge's free-spirited nature and her deep connection to the idyllic Virginia countryside. After learning of unexpected visitors and confronting the consequences of her actions, Madge's journey evolves as she discovers a hidden key in her mother's belongings, igniting her curiosity about her family's past. This discovery signals the beginnings of both personal growth and mysterious revelations that will shape her future as she prepares for the delightful yet complex experiences that come with growing up.
Amy D. V. Chalmers
Madge Morton's Trust
"Madge Morton's Trust" by Amy D. V. Chalmers is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story continues the adventures of Madge Morton and her friends as they navigate the challenges of summer, friendship, and personal growth, all while dealing with the complexities of family ties and their beloved houseboat, the "Merry Maid." The opening of the book introduces us to Phyllis Alden, who is caring for her family while her mother recovers from illness. Phyllis receives a lively letter from her friend Madge, revealing a desire for their summer houseboat adventures, which are unfortunately hindered by financial constraints. The scene shifts to Madge's unexpected arrival at Phyllis's home, where she brings excitement and energy to an otherwise monotonous household. As Madge settles in, the dynamics between the characters begin to unfold, hinting at their upcoming adventures and the challenges they'll face, including responsibility, trust, and the need for companionship. This early portion sets the stage for the narrative's unfolding drama, filled with both humor and tension, as Madge and her friends seek to maintain their bond throughout the summer.
Edward Stratemeyer
The Rover Boys on the River; Or, The Search for the Missing Houseboat
"The Rover Boys on the River; Or, The Search for the Missing Houseboat" by Arthur Winfield is an adventure novel likely written in the late 19th century. This story is part of "The Rover Boys Series for Young Americans," and it follows brothers Dick, Tom, and Sam Rover as they embark on a thrilling summer outing on the Ohio River aboard a houseboat. Readers can expect an entertaining mix of fun, friendship, and intrigue, featuring various old enemies and a touch of mystery. The opening of the novel introduces us to the Rover boys at the end of their term at Putnam Hall, where they are filled with excitement about their summer plans. Tom reveals a suggestion from their Uncle Randolph that they take a houseboat named the "Dora" for a trip down the Ohio River. As the brothers discuss who to invite on this adventure, their camaraderie shines through. Additionally, hints of trouble arise from characters like Dan Baxter and Lew Flapp, who are poised to create mischief for the Rover boys. The scene is set for a summer filled with exploration, friendship, and potential conflict as the boys prepare to take their journey.
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