Subject
Missing children -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Frank A. Warner
Bobby Blake on a Plantation; Or, Lost in the Great Swamp
"Bobby Blake on a Plantation; Or, Lost in the Great Swamp" by Frank A. Warner is a fictional novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows Bobby Blake, a resourceful and adventurous young boy, as he embarks on a series of exciting escapades with his friends at Rockledge School. The narrative explores themes of bravery, friendship, and adventure, with Bobby being a central character who often takes the lead during critical moments. The opening of the story introduces Bobby and his friends after a thrilling football victory, showcasing their camaraderie and playful banter. Shortly after the game, the boys hear about a dangerous situation involving a sinking boat, prompting Bobby to galvanize his friends for a rescue mission. This not only demonstrates Bobby’s quick thinking and leadership but also hints at the many adventures and challenges to come as the story unfolds, setting the stage for Bobby's character development and the action that will later take place on his visit to a Southern plantation.
James Otis
Jack the Hunchback: A Story of Adventure on the Coast of Maine
"Jack the Hunchback: A Story of Adventure on the Coast of Maine" by James Otis is a children's novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a young hunchback named Jack Dudley, who becomes embroiled in a series of adventures after he and a baby, Louis, escape a catastrophic incident at sea. With themes of friendship, resilience, and loyalty, Jack’s journey emphasizes his determination to care for Louis while navigating the challenges that arise from his appearance and social status. The opening of the book presents an intriguing scenario where Jack and the baby are found adrift in a lifeboat off the coast of Maine after a ship explosion. Farmer Pratt and his son Tom discover them on the beach. While Farmer Pratt initially contemplates taking them to the poorhouse, Jack's quick thinking and bravery lead him to escape from that fate. The introduction sets the stage for Jack's adventures, highlighting his strong sense of responsibility for little Louis and establishing the conflict with Farmer Pratt, who is determined to return them to a life devoid of freedom. As Jack seeks shelter with Aunt Nancy, they develop a bond, but the ongoing threat from Farmer Pratt looms over them, creating tension and interest in their uncertain future.
Clarissa A. (Clarissa Abia) Kneeland
Smugglers' Island and the devil fires of San Moros
"Smugglers' Island and the Devil Fires of San Moros" by Clarissa A. Kneeland is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Marian Hadley and her younger brother Delbert, along with their little sisters, as they embark on a daring trip to Smugglers' Island, which is rich in unsolved mysteries from pirate days. This seemingly simple picnic evolves into a survival narrative when they find themselves stranded on the island after the unexpected theft of their launch boat. The opening of the novel introduces the Hadley family, where Marian is tasked with caring for her siblings, including spirited Delbert and frail Jennie. As excitement builds around their planned excursion to Smugglers' Island, tensions rise when they discover their launch has been stolen by Mr. Pearson, leaving them alone on the island. Facing initial fears and the challenges of survival, Marian steps into the role of protector, demonstrating resourcefulness and resolve as she leads her younger siblings in foraging for food, seeking shelter, and constructing a makeshift existence while they await rescue. The beginning sets the stage for an adventurous tale rich in themes of courage, family bonds, and resilience against the odds.
Joanna H. (Joanna Hooe) Mathews
Bessie on Her Travels
"Bessie on Her Travels" by Joanna H. Mathews is a children's adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows Bessie Bradford and her sister Maggie, along with their friends, as they embark on a journey filled with excitement and curiosity, particularly revolving around their experiences traveling by sea. The narrative captures the joys and challenges faced by children during their adventures, highlighting themes of friendship, kindness, and the wonders of exploration. At the start of the story, the sisters and their friends are seen in a flurry of excitement as they prepare for their upcoming sea voyage. The opening scenes depict Maggie's enthusiasm as she attempts to help with packing, leading to humorous situations that reveal her determined yet impulsive nature. While Maggie's eagerness to assist leads to a bit of chaos, Bessie appears more thoughtful and sensitive, demonstrating their contrasting personalities. The stage is set for their travels, with the anticipation of new experiences ahead, particularly the sea voyage, capturing the readers' attention and inviting them to join in the children's playful adventures.
Carroll Watson Rankin
The Castaways of Pete's Patch (A Sequel to The Adopting of Rosa Marie)
"The Castaways of Pete's Patch" by Carroll Watson Rankin is a charming children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a group of young friends, who are part of the Dandelion Cottage series, as they embark on an adventurous camping trip that takes unexpected turns. Lively characters such as Bettie Tucker, Mabel, and others from their previous escapades are reunited to explore the beauty of the wilderness while facing challenges and uncovering surprises along the way. The opening of the book sets a delightful tone as Bettie, recovering from illness, prepares for a much-anticipated outing with her friends, organized by Mr. Black and Mrs. Crane. The girls are excited at the prospect of spending time at the lake, filled with hopes of fresh air, fun, and exploration. However, despite their plans, unforeseen circumstances arise that leave them temporarily stranded, prompting the introduction of a mysterious castaway sailor boy and sparking thrilling adventures that will ensue. The narrative invites readers into a world of childhood wonder and camaraderie, suggesting that the journey may lead to more than they initially bargained for.
Mary Holdsworth
Sing a Song of Sixpence
"Sing a Song of Sixpence" by Mary Holdsworth is a children's book written in the late 19th century. This whimsical tale revolves around the imaginative adventures of a young girl named Nellie as she reflects on the treasures and responsibilities of childhood, encapsulated in her new sixpence. The book, characterized by its playful narrative and charming illustrations, explores themes of innocence and creativity through a mix of fantasy and everyday life. The story follows Nellie, who is captivated by her shiny new sixpence, causing her to daydream about buying a lamb and chocolates. Throughout her whimsical thoughts, she envisions interactions with various characters, including a personified Queen who appreciates poetry and shares in Nellie's playful imagination. As the tale unfolds, they indulge in a delightful tea party with a magical pie filled with singing blackbirds. The storytelling seamlessly intertwines fantasy with the innocence of childhood, culminating in a narrative that celebrates imagination, generosity, and the joys of young companionship.
Gordon (Adventure story writer) Stuart
Hal Kenyon Disappears
"Hal Kenyon Disappears" by Gordon Stuart is a children's adventure novel written in the mid-20th century. The story unfolds around a group of Boy Scouts at Lakefarm School who embark on outdoor adventures, led by their charismatic headmaster, Dr. Regulus Byrd. The main character, Hal Kenyon, faces an unexpected ordeal when he attempts to explore a mysterious cave behind a waterfall in Mummy Cañon, leading to exciting twists and challenges. The opening of the novel introduces the picturesque setting of Mummy Cañon, highlighting the boys’ enthusiasm during a summer outing. As Hal and his friend Byron attempt to ignite a campfire, the camaraderie and spirited atmosphere of the group are established. However, Hal's adventure takes a turn when the excitement of exploring the hidden cave leads to his accidental entrapment. The narrative sets up a tense search for Hal, emphasizing themes of friendship, bravery, and the unpredictability of adventure as the other boys, led by Dr. Byrd, band together to rescue him from behind the waterfall.
E. C. (Edith C.) Kenyon
Lost in the backwoods
"Lost in the Backwoods" by E.C. Kenyon is a fictional adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Cyril Morton, a young boy who finds himself in perilous situations after a train robbery that leads to his father's presumed death. As Cyril navigates the dangers of the backwoods of North America, he grapples with loneliness, fear, and the desire to reunite with his father while encountering various characters along the way. At the start of the narrative, Cyril and his father are aboard a train when they are attacked by a group of robbers. In the chaos of the robbery, Cyril's father is shot, and Cyril is taken away by one of the robbers, Whiterock. Cyril soon finds himself alone in the wilderness, battling despair as he searches for his father. The opening chapters depict his struggles to survive in the forest, his encounters with wild animals, and his emerging faith as he relies on prayer for guidance. Despite the perilous circumstances, Cyril showcases bravery, compassion, and a strong moral compass, setting the stage for his journey of resilience and the quest for familial reconnection.
George Manville Fenn
Quicksilver: The Boy With No Skid to His Wheel
"Quicksilver: The Boy With No Skid to His Wheel" by George Manville Fenn is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a boy named Obed Coleby, a foundling living in a poorhouse, who is adopted by a local doctor. The book touches on themes of social class differences and the challenges of upbringing as the doctor endeavours to raise Obed as a gentleman despite his challenging background. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to a scruffy but exuberant young boy who enjoys splashing in a stream, embodying the carefree spirit of childhood. Obed’s life takes a turn when he is adopted by the local doctor, who recognizes the boy’s potential despite his troublesome nature. The opening sections set the stage for Obed's journey as he navigates new experiences, friendships, and trials, emphasizing the contrast between his rough upbringing in the workhouse and the expectations of gentility in his new home. The narrative hints at both comedic and poignant moments as Obed tries to adjust to his new life, showcasing the complexity of identity and change.
Margaret Vandercook
The Camp Fire Girls Amid the Snows
"The Camp Fire Girls Amid the Snows" by Margaret Vandercook is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows two main characters, Esther Clark and Betty Ashton, as they navigate a challenging winter adventure in New Hampshire. The girls are members of a Camp Fire group and are preparing for various activities while facing unexpected trials, including a snowstorm that leads them into an emergency situation. At the start of the book, the two friends are caught in a snowstorm while returning to their camp after gathering supplies. Their sleigh overturns, leaving them temporarily stranded and vulnerable. As they work together to make the best of their predicament, relying on their Camp Fire skills, they encounter the challenges of survival and friendship in harsh winter conditions. The opening sets a tone of camaraderie and resilience, emphasizing the girls' determination to support each other despite their difficulties.
Janet D. Wheeler
Billie Bradley on Lighthouse Island; Or, The Mystery of the Wreck
"Billie Bradley on Lighthouse Island; Or, The Mystery of the Wreck" by Janet D. Wheeler is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Billie Bradley and her friends, Laura and Vi, as they embark on various adventures, starting with finding themselves lost in the woods during a botany lesson. The narrative is infused with elements of mystery and adventure, particularly revolving around their encounters in the woods, including a cryptic and enigmatic man named Hugo Billings and the lingering memory of a thief known as "The Codfish." The opening of the novel introduces Billie, Laura, and Vi as they attempt to gather ferns for their school project, only to discover they are lost in the woods as rain begins to fall. Their situation grows more intense as they navigate through the darkening forest, fueled by their imaginations that conjure fears of meeting the infamous Codfish. Their fears lead them to a mysterious hut in the woods where they encounter Hugo Billings, a peculiar man with a haunted look. The girls must decide whether to trust him while grappling with thoughts of danger that loom large in their minds, setting the stage for the unfolding mystery of the wreck that connects to their new summer adventure on Lighthouse Island.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
A Waif of the Mountains
"A Waif of the Mountains" by Edward Sylvester Ellis is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in a rugged mining camp called New Constantinople during a harsh blizzard, and follows the struggles and camaraderie of a group of miners. The introduction hint at the arrival of a small girl named Nellie, whose presence soon transforms the rough group of men into more caring and considerate individuals. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to the miners of New Constantinople, who gather at the local saloon to discuss important town business—naming their settlement—during a blizzard. As tensions rise with their humorous and argumentative discussions about potential names, the opening sets a light-hearted and comedic tone. The arrival of Maurice Dawson and his young daughter, Nellie, brings a dramatic turn to the atmosphere, as Dawson recounts the tragic loss of his wife in the blizzard while he miraculously saved his daughter. In this opening section, readers witness the miners' rough edges soften and their humanity begin to shine as they rally around the father-daughter duo, setting the stage for a heartwarming story of community, loss, and friendship.
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