Subject
Missing persons -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Richard H. Stone
Lost over Greenland : $b or, Slim Tyler's search for Dave Boyd
No description available.
Franklin W. Dixon
The missing chums
"The Missing Chums" by Franklin W. Dixon is a mystery novel written in 1928. When Chet Morton and Biff Hooper set out on a coastal motorboat trip, they vanish without a trace. Frank and Joe Hardy must locate their missing friends while navigating dangerous encounters with suspicious criminals. Their search leads them through storms, mysterious threats, and eventually to a remote island where captors lurk. The boys face kidnapping and peril as they work to solve multiple mysteries and rescue their chums from unknown dangers.
Emma Speed Sampson
Mary Louise Stands the Test
"Mary Louise Stands the Test" by Edith Van Dyne is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book centers around Mary Louise, a young woman who grapples with her grandfather Colonel Hathaway's deteriorating mental state and the strain it places on her marriage to Danny Dexter. As she navigates the complexities of familial loyalty and love, the characters' challenges and growth unfold amid the backdrop of social expectations and personal dilemmas. At the start of the story, we are introduced to Mary Louise, who is experiencing the unfathomable tension between her love for her husband, Danny, and her deep-seated affection for her increasingly irrational grandfather. The initial chapter showcases Colonel Hathaway's troubling behavior, which causes him to express unfounded disdain for Danny, leading to a rift in their relationship. Mary Louise is torn between two loves as she observes her grandfather's decline and Danny's confusion and hurt. The complex dynamics of their relationships set the stage for Mary Louise’s journey of self-discovery and resilience as she attempts to reconcile her loyalty to her grandfather with her commitment to her husband.
Clarence Young
The Motor Boys on Road and River; Or, Racing To Save a Life
"The Motor Boys on Road and River; Or, Racing To Save a Life" by Clarence Young is a work of juvenile fiction written in the early 20th century. This adventure novel centers around a trio of boys—Jerry Hopkins, Ned Slade, and Bob Baker—who often embark on thrilling escapades involving motor vehicles and intrigue. In this particular story, they are embroiled in a mystery regarding the value of land owned by Jerry’s mother and an urgent mission that unfolds as they contend with urgency to save a life. The opening of the book introduces Jerry and his friends reflecting on a local baseball game, hinting at Jerry's absent-mindedness which has recently troubled him. As the boys decide to take a spin in their car, Jerry's erratic driving reveals that something preoccupies his mind. It is soon disclosed that Jerry is concerned over an intriguing offer for a swamp land owned by his mother from the Universal Plaster Company, which he suspects carries hidden motives. The boys plan to investigate the land themselves and uncover a potential mystery involving clay diggers, adding suspense and adventure to their summer escapades. The stage is set for an exhilarating journey as they determine to uncover the truth behind the land's value and the company's intentions.
Margaret Sutton
The Phantom Friend A Judy Bolton Mystery
"The Phantom Friend" by Margaret Sutton is a mystery novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around Judy Bolton and her friends as they navigate their day in New York City, where they encounter Clarissa Valentine, a girl who mysteriously appears to be in trouble. The narrative combines elements of friendship, the search for identity, and the intrigue of hidden dangers as Judy gets drawn into Clarissa's predicament. At the start of the book, Judy and her friends are enjoying a skating outing at Radio City when they notice a girl named Clarissa arguing at a cashier's desk over a missing twenty-dollar bill. After offering her help, the group invites Clarissa to join them for lunch, leading to conversations about dreams, ambitions, and the pressures of appearing on television. As the day unfolds, strange occurrences surround Clarissa, including her claims of being invisible in mirrors, prompting Judy to become increasingly curious and concerned for her. The opening sets the stage for a mix of charm and mystery, as Judy's intuition tells her that there is more to Clarissa's story than meets the eye.
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
A Ticket to Adventure A Mystery Story for Girls
"A Ticket to Adventure" by Roy J. Snell is a mystery story for girls written in the late 1930s. The narrative centers around Mary Hughes and her cousin Florence as they embark on a journey to Alaska, encountering various characters and challenges along the way. The girls hope for an adventurous life as pioneers but soon realize that their journey is not without its dangers and mysteries. The opening of the story introduces Mary Hughes as she arrives in Anchorage, Alaska, where she unexpectedly meets a peculiar little man, Mister Il-ay-ok, who is an Eskimo. The encounter with Il-ay-ok piques Mary’s curiosity, especially when a stranger expresses disdain for him, implying a deeper enmity. After this disconcerting introduction, the narrative unfolds to show the girls' excitement for pioneering life in the Matamuska Valley, as they grapple with the unexpected discovery about Florence's possibly alive grandfather, Tom Kennedy. The sisters face an uncertain future, filled with hopes of adventure amid the realities of life in an unfamiliar wild, setting the stage for a rich exploration of themes like curiosity, family ties, and the unpredictability of life.
Cornelia Meigs
The Pirate of Jasper Peak
"The Pirate of Jasper Peak" by Cornelia Meigs is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young boy named Hugh Arnold, who arrives in the seemingly dull town of Rudolm, Minnesota, to stay while his father serves in World War I. Unbeknownst to him, Hugh is about to embark on a thrilling adventure involving friendship, mystery, and the enigmatic figure of Half-Breed Jake, known as the pirate of Jasper Peak. The opening of the novel introduces Hugh as he steps off a delayed train at the isolated station of Rudolm. Initially perplexed and disappointed by the unexciting landscape, he begins to explore his new surroundings while grappling with the absence of his father. When he learns about his friends, John and Dick Edmonds, who have gone missing during a hunting expedition, Hugh realizes that his time in Rudolm will be far more adventurous than he had anticipated. As he interacts with local townsfolk, Indian guides, and navigates his emotions during this time, the mystery of the boys’ disappearance unfolds, hinting at dangers linked to the dubious pirate figure who lurks in the wilderness nearby.
Franklin W. Dixon
The secret of the caves
"The Secret of the Caves" by Franklin W. Dixon is a mystery novel written in 1929. When teenager Morgan Todd disappears, Frank and Joe Hardy team up with their detective father to find him while protecting a coastal radar station from sabotage. Their investigation leads them to mysterious Honeycomb Caves, where strange lights flicker and gunshots echo. As the brothers and their friends camp near the caves, they encounter a hostile hermit, unexplained explosions, and arson. The young detectives must unravel the connection between the missing man and sinister activities threatening national security.
Edward Stratemeyer
The Rover Boys in the Jungle; Or, Stirring Adventures in Africa
"The Rover Boys in the Jungle; Or, Stirring Adventures in Africa" by Arthur M. Winfield (Edward Stratemeyer) is a novel written during the late 19th century. This story continues the adventures of the Rover Boys—Dick, Tom, and Sam—who are young cadets set on a quest to find their father in the jungles of Africa. The plot revolves around their challenges and the many adventures they encounter in their search for Anderson Rover, who disappeared during an expedition years earlier. At the start of the novel, the Rover Boys return to Putnam Hall Military Academy, joyful to reunite with friends and resume their studies after a thrilling encounter on the ocean. However, the boys are soon met with unsettling news: their old enemy, Dan Baxter, has escaped from jail. This leads to a mix of concerns and determination among the brothers, reflecting their lingering battles with former adversaries. As they settle back into academy life, the arrival of new students and hints of further trouble arise, setting a tone of adventure and suspense that promises an exciting journey ahead as they eventually embark on their African expedition.
Horatio Alger
Brave and Bold; Or, The Fortunes of Robert Rushton
"Brave and Bold; Or, The Fortunes of Robert Rushton" by Horatio Alger Jr. is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a school setting where we are introduced to Robert Rushton, a young factory worker, and his rival, Halbert Davis, the arrogant son of a wealthy factory superintendent. The narrative addresses themes of social class disparity, perseverance, and moral integrity as Robert navigates tensions arising from class differences and his attempts to rise above his impoverished circumstances. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Millville Academy and its students under the tutelage of Professor Granville, who is praised by his students at the conclusion of their writing course. Amidst this, we witness a rivalry sparked between Robert Rushton and Halbert Davis. While Halbert is accustomed to privilege and self-importance, he is jealous of Robert, whose character, diligence, and kindness garner admiration, particularly from Hester Paine, a local belle. The conflict between the boys intensifies as Halbert feels insulted by Robert’s interaction with Hester, leading to a confrontation that not only tests their character but also sets the stage for further challenges, including Robert's struggle to maintain his job at the factory amidst Halbert’s social influence.
Edward Stratemeyer
Dave Porter in the South Seas; or, The Strange Cruise of the Stormy Petrel
"Dave Porter in the South Seas; or, The Strange Cruise of the Stormy Petrel" by Edward Stratemeyer is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure tale follows the main character, Dave Porter, a bright and determined boy with a mysterious past, as he embarks on a journey to discover more about his origins in the South Seas. Accompanied by friends from Oak Hall, Dave's quest is filled with challenges, rivalries, and the prospect of encountering unique cultures and dangers along the way. The opening of the story introduces us to the boys at Oak Hall, highlighting their camaraderie and the challenges they face, particularly with a bully named Gus Plum. We learn about Dave’s backstory, including childhood struggles in a poorhouse and a growing desire to uncover his heritage. Potential troubles with Plum add tension to Dave's life, while hints of an exciting trip to the South Seas set the stage for the adventure to come. This foundation not only builds anticipation but also raises questions about relationships and personal growth, making it an engaging read for those who enjoy coming-of-age stories with adventure and intrigue.
Josephine Chase
Grace Harlowe's Golden Summer
"Grace Harlowe's Golden Summer" by Josephine Chase is a novel written in the early 20th century. This installment follows the titular character, Grace Harlowe, as she navigates the joys and challenges of love, friendship, and personal growth in the lead-up to her marriage. Readers are drawn into the lives of Grace and her close-knit group of friends as they prepare for significant life changes while cherishing their recent reconnections. The opening of the story introduces us to a gathering of Grace's friends on the steps of the Omnibus House, where playful banter and camaraderie set a lighthearted tone. As they engage in witty exchanges and reminiscing, Grace reflects on the fleeting nature of their time together and the imminent changes in their lives. The atmosphere is laced with warmth and nostalgia as they anticipate Grace's wedding and celebrate their bond, all while hinting at deeper emotional currents that will unfold throughout the narrative. This setup invites readers to explore themes of loyalty and the bittersweet nature of growth and transition alongside the characters they have come to love.
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