Subject
Mexico -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Mayne Reid
The Rifle Rangers
"The Rifle Rangers" by Mayne Reid is a novel published in 1850, set during the Mexican War of 1846-1848. Captain Jack Haller leads a newly formed American volunteer battalion through dangerous missions in Mexico's Tierra Caliente region. As the Rangers navigate battles with guerrilla forces and attempt a siege of Vera Cruz, Haller becomes entangled with a local family whose son is trapped in the besieged city. Based on Reid's own military service, the novel captures the perils and adventures of American soldiers in unfamiliar territory.
Victor Appleton
Tom Swift in the City of Gold; Or, Marvelous Adventures Underground
"Tom Swift in the City of Gold; Or, Marvelous Adventures Underground" by Appleton is a novel published as Volume 11 in the original Tom Swift series. When Tom receives word of a legendary underground city filled with gold treasures hidden deep in Mexico, he sets off on a daring expedition. But he's not alone in the quest—his rival Andy Foger, a band of scheming Mexicans, and mysterious Head Hunters all compete for the ancient riches. Underground dangers and accidental entrapment threaten the adventure at every turn.
Burt L. Standish
Frank Merriwell Down South
"Frank Merriwell Down South" by Burt L. Standish is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the adventures of Frank Merriwell, a young hero, as he explores the wild regions of Mexico alongside his companions. The novel is rich with themes of exploration and danger, and it hints at a quest for a legendary treasure known as the Silver Palace, intertwining elements of mystery and action as the characters confront bandits and unexpected foes. The opening of the book introduces Frank Merriwell and his companions in a remote adobe hut in the Mexican desert. They encounter a dying man, Jack Burk, who speaks of a mythical treasure in the Sierra Madre Mountains but ultimately succumbs to his injuries. As Frank and his friends grapple with disbelief and the reality of the man's tale, they soon find themselves in peril as bandits, led by the notorious Pacheco, chase an American who seeks refuge. Burk's quest for the Silver Palace instigates a series of thrilling escapades that involve mystery, danger, and a fight for survival, foreshadowing the challenges the characters will face on their journey.
Clarence Young
The Motor Boys in Mexico; Or, The Secret of the Buried City
"The Motor Boys in Mexico; Or, The Secret of the Buried City" by Clarence Young is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows three boys—Ned, Bob, and Jerry—who embark on a journey from Arizona to Mexico after learning about a buried city rumored to hold great treasures. Their journey is filled with encounters both amusing and perilous as they deal with old enemies and new challenges along the way. At the start of the narrative, the boys are living in a mining camp in Arizona when a familiar figure, Professor Uriah Snodgrass, gets himself trapped in an abandoned mine shaft while collecting specimens. After rescuing the professor, he reveals the tale of a buried city in Mexico, igniting their curiosity. The boys decide to make the trip in their automobile, despite the looming threat of Noddy Nixon, a former nemesis, who they discover may also be heading to Mexico. The opening chapters set the tone for a mix of adventure and humor, foreshadowing the various challenges they will encounter on their quest.
G. Harvey (George Harvey) Ralphson
Boy Scouts in Mexico; Or, On Guard with Uncle Sam
"Boy Scouts in Mexico; Or, On Guard with Uncle Sam" by G. Harvey Ralphson is an adventure novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of Boy Scouts, particularly focusing on George Fremont, who finds himself embroiled in a mystery involving a robbery and an attack on his benefactor, Mr. Cameron. As the story unfolds, Fremont must evade capture while unraveling the truth behind the crime, all while facing dangers that lead him and his friends on an exciting journey into Mexico. At the start of the book, the Boy Scouts are gathered in their clubroom, brainstorming plans for a trip down the Rio Grande. The excitement quickly takes a dark turn when Fremont discovers Mr. Cameron's office ransacked and his mentor injured, leading him to be accused of the crime. With the clock ticking, Fremont's situation becomes precarious as he is pursued by the police. He receives help from fellow scouts and their patrol leader, Ned Nestor, who blocks the police from arresting Fremont. The stage is set for a gripping adventure filled with mystery, camaraderie, and the determination of these young scouts to clear their friend's name and navigate the complications that lie ahead.
W. Crispin (William Crispin) Sheppard
The Rambler Club on the Texas border
"The Rambler Club on the Texas Border" by W. Crispin Sheppard is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows a lively group of boys, known as the Rambler Club, as they venture from Wisconsin to Texas, seeking excitement and connection with the famed Texas Rangers. The narrative revolves around the rambunctious character of Cranny Beaumont and his friends as they get caught up in thrilling escapades, consistently driven by their thirst for adventure. The beginning of the story introduces the Rambler Club's enthusiastic members as they arrive in Texas, eager for new experiences. They reunite with their friend Cranny Beaumont and are quickly drawn into the dynamic world of the Texas Rangers, who face challenges from lawlessness on the border. The club's curiosity leads them to cross the Rio Grande into Mexico, where they encounter a mixture of adventure and danger amid the backdrop of a revolutionary landscape. These opening chapters set the tone for a tale filled with friendship, daring exploits, and the spirited pursuit of challenges, inviting readers to follow along on this journey of exploration and camaraderie.
John Henry Goldfrap
The Border Boys with the Mexican Rangers
"The Border Boys with the Mexican Rangers" by Fremont B. Deering is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of adventurous young boys—Jack Merrill, Ralph Stetson, and their companions—as they embark on a dangerous quest in Mexico. Their journey leads them to encounter Mexican outlaws, including the notorious Black Ramon, as they delve deeper into the mysterious territory surrounding the Trembling Mountain in search of treasure and adventure. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the group's initial adventures while camping in a canyon in Sonora, Mexico. The seemingly peaceful night is disrupted when a curious bear approaches their camp, leading to a series of events that ignite a thrilling pursuit. Shortly after this encounter, the boys receive a warning note from a mysterious horseman, suggesting that their mission is perilous. The opening culminates in a dramatic confrontation, where Jack encounters Black Ramon and narrowly escapes, setting the stage for an explosive series of adventures filled with peril and camaraderie among the group as they continue their quest through treacherous terrain.
G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
In the Hands of the Cave-Dwellers
"In the Hands of the Cave-Dwellers" by G. A. Henty is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story follows William Harland, a young sailor who becomes embroiled in adventures in early Californian territories during the early 1830s, as he encounters and befriends Juan Sarasta, a young Mexican nobleman. As the narrative unfolds, tensions mount with the threat of Indian raids, weaving themes of bravery, friendship, and danger throughout. The opening of the book introduces us to young William Harland, who has recently deserted his ship and finds himself in San Diego. After a chance encounter in which he saves Juan Sarasta from a group of attackers, the two form an immediate friendship. Juan, although grateful, has his own troubles involving a rival suitor who seems intent on harming him. As they navigate their way through San Diego and beyond, they form plans for Juan's visit to his wealthy father’s ranch, while ominous hints of conflict and adventure loom ahead with Indian tribes known for their volatility. The initial chapters establish a rich historical context, character development, and set the stage for future conflicts involving both human antagonists and the wilderness itself.
Helen Beecher Long
The Mission of Janice Day
"The Mission of Janice Day" by Helen Beecher Long is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Janice Day, a spirited and optimistic young woman, as she navigates the troubles faced by her family, particularly concerning her Uncle Jason, who is in financial distress due to a deceptive business partner. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Polktown, the narrative explores themes of community, resilience, and the impact of familial bonds. The opening of the book introduces Janice and her family dynamics, highlighting her loving but concerned relationship with her Uncle Jason and Aunt 'Mira. As Janice sets out to meet the steamboat, she reflects on her efforts to invigorate the sleepy town of Polktown with her activism. However, a cloud hangs over her family's happiness as it becomes clear that Uncle Jason is harboring unexplained troubles, leading to a palpable tension in the household. The reader is drawn into Janice's world, eager to uncover the deeper issues plaguing her family while experiencing her unwavering spirit and affection for her community.
Harry Castlemon
George at the Wheel; Or, Life in the Pilot-House
"George at the Wheel; Or, Life in the Pilot-House" by Harry Castlemon is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the adventures of George Ackerman, a boy who navigates the dangers of the Texas frontier while dealing with family intrigue and encounters with cattle thieves. The novel promises a blend of excitement and conflict as George tries to protect his ranch and his interests against those who wish to undermine him. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to George and his cousin Ned, who are discussing the troubling events that have unfolded since George was captured by a gang of cattle thieves. Throughout their dialogue, it becomes apparent that there are deeper family dynamics at play, particularly concerning Uncle John, George's guardian, and his potential motives against his charge. The opening sets up a tension-filled backdrop, placing George in peril while hinting at an ongoing scheme related to his inheritance. As George navigates his challenges, readers are positioned to witness not only a thrilling adventure but also the evolution of his character against the adversities posed by both external threats and internal family conflict.
Frances Trego Montgomery
Billy Whiskers, Jr.
"Billy Whiskers, Jr." by Frances Trego Montgomery is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young goat named Billy Jr., who is driven by a desire for adventure and yearns to explore the vast, exciting West. Along his journey, he faces various challenges and encounters a number of colorful characters, all while discovering his role as a leader. The opening portion of the book introduces Billy Jr. as he expresses dissatisfaction with his quiet life on the farm. Eager for adventure, he confides in his sister, Day, about his plans to venture westward. Despite her concerns about the dangers he might face, including wolves and the vast distance, Billy Jr. remains resolute. He plans his escape with hopes of joining the ranks of the great goat leaders in the West and begins to gather information on how to make his journey. This section sets the stage for an adventurous tale filled with humor, challenges, and important life lessons reflecting Billy Jr.'s spirited personality.
John Henry Goldfrap
The Boy Scouts Under Fire in Mexico
"The Boy Scouts Under Fire in Mexico" by Lieut. Howard Payson is a children's adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of Boy Scouts led by Rob Blake as they embark on a series of thrilling escapades that include sailing, dealing with unexpected dangers, and ultimately assisting in the capture of escapees from prison. The narrative showcases the camaraderie and resourcefulness inherent in scouting, with a focus on teamwork and bravery in the face of threats. The opening portion introduces the main characters as they navigate an exciting sailing trip. With the weather turning unfavorably, they face a crisis when their sailboat springs a mysterious leak. Their adventure takes a dramatic turn as they encounter men fleeing from the authorities, setting up a web of intrigue surrounding their unexpected troubles. The boys utilize their scout training to take charge of the situation, demonstrating problem-solving skills while they also deal with the comical mishaps and challenges of youth. Overall, it sets the stage for an engaging story filled with adventure and valuable life lessons.
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