Subject
Montana -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Franklin W. Dixon
Hunting for hidden gold
"Hunting for Hidden Gold" by Franklin W. Dixon is a mystery novel written in 1928. When detective Fenton Hardy is injured while investigating stolen gold from a Montana mining camp, his sons Frank and Joe join the case. The brothers must navigate kidnapping attempts, outlaw gangs, and dangerous encounters with wolves as they search for missing gold connected to a mysterious miner's tale. Their investigation leads them through treacherous mine shafts and confrontations with criminals, testing their detective skills in the rugged Western frontier.
Clarence Young
The Motor Boys on Thunder Mountain; Or, The Treasure Chest of Blue Rock
"The Motor Boys on Thunder Mountain; Or, The Treasure Chest of Blue Rock" by Clarence Young is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a trio of young friends known as the Motor Boys—Jerry Hopkins, Ned Slade, and Bob Baker—as they embark on a thrilling quest after receiving a letter about a potential gold mine. With themes of friendship, exploration, and the spirit of adventure, the boys find themselves drawn into tales of treasure and danger that could change their lives forever. At the start of the narrative, Jerry, Ned, and Bob discuss a letter from an acquaintance, Tinnith Mallison, who invites them to investigate a gold mine near Thunder Mountain. Amid playful banter and discussions about food, they express a mutual desire for adventure following their experiences in the war. Their conversation quickly turns serious as they note the urgent need to respond to Mallison’s suggestion. As they head off for lunch, they discover their bravery will soon be tested when they encounter a fire at a farmhouse, prompting them to leap into action to save a trapped family. Just as they begin to settle in for their new journey, hints are dropped about potential conflicts with a nemesis, Noddy Nixon, setting the stage for an exciting adventure full of dilemmas and unexpected encounters.
Howard Roger Garis
The Curlytops at Uncle Frank's Ranch; Or, Little Folks on Ponyback
"The Curlytops at Uncle Frank's Ranch; Or, Little Folks on Ponyback" by Howard R. Garis is a children's novel written during the early 20th century. This delightful adventure follows the Curlytops—siblings Janet and Teddy Martin, along with their mischievous little brother Trouble—as they embark on a journey to Uncle Frank’s ranch in Montana. The story captures the excitement of childhood imagination and the thrill of exploration, particularly as it introduces themes of family, fun, and the adventures awaiting on a vast ranch. The opening of the story introduces us to the Curlytops through their playful banter and imaginary games on a rainy Saturday, which quickly turns into a humorous situation when Trouble takes a tumble down the stairs. As the Martin family prepares for their trip to the ranch after receiving an invitation from Uncle Frank, readers meet the Curlytops’ cherished pet goat, Nicknack, and engage with the joyful chaos of a lively household. The initial chapters set up the characters' playful personalities while hinting at the exciting adventures awaiting them on Uncle Frank's ranch, including the prospect of meeting cowboys and possibly even Indians. Through a mix of lighthearted sibling interactions and imaginative play, the foundation for the upcoming journey is delightfully established.
Amy Bell Marlowe
The Girl from Sunset Ranch; Or, Alone in a Great City
"The Girl from Sunset Ranch; Or, Alone in a Great City" by Amy Bell Marlowe is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Helen Morrell, a sturdy and independent 16-year-old girl who manages Sunset Ranch following the death of her father. As she grieves, Helen grapples with the responsibilities of ranch life, her father's mysterious past, and her desire for a refined existence, ultimately deciding to travel to New York City to connect with relatives she has never met. The opening of the novel introduces us to Helen as she rides her beloved pony, reflecting on her father's death and the memories they shared at the scenic View on their ranch. Following a close encounter with a reckless rider who falls off a cliff, Helen begins to demonstrate her resourcefulness and courage as she helps the injured man, Dudley Stone. This incident leads to a friendship where Helen shares her dreams and determination to clear her father's name of the dishonor that plagued him. While preparing for her journey to New York, Helen's inner strength and yearning for a life beyond the ranch become clear, setting the stage for her challenges in the great city ahead.
Frank Gee Patchin
The Pony Rider Boys in Montana; Or, The Mystery of the Old Custer Trail
"The Pony Rider Boys in Montana; Or, The Mystery of the Old Custer Trail" by Frank Gee Patchin is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventurous tale follows a group of boys, led by Tad Butler, on a thrilling journey through Montana as they seek to explore the old Custer Trail while possibly getting involved in local challenges, including facing real dangers. This installment continues the exploits of the Pony Rider Boys, who have already experienced notable adventures in previous tales featuring trails, cattle, and wild encounters. The opening of the story introduces Tad Butler and his friends as they disembark from a train in Forsythe, Montana. The boys, eager to set out on their next adventure, are met by a banker who informs them about the local sheep ranching scene and hints at the presence of profitable sheep drives. As they prepare to purchase ponies and begin their exploration, they exhibit typical camaraderie and lively banter among themselves. However, their spirits boost upon hearing tales of potential dangers from the area, including errant Indians, setting the stage for the adventures and mishaps that will follow as they navigate the wilderness and face both natural challenges and the mysterious threats to ranchers in the region.
George Bird Grinnell
Jack the Young Explorer: A Boy's Experiances in the Unknown Northwest
"Jack the Young Explorer: A Boy's Experiences in the Unknown Northwest" by George Bird Grinnell is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young boy named Jack and his friend Hugh as they embark on an exploratory journey into the unknown territories of the Northwest, amidst interactions with Native American tribes and wild game. Readers can expect themes of exploration, friendship, and discovery. The opening of the book sets the stage for Jack's adventure as he arrives in Helena, Montana, eager to meet his friend Hugh. Their excitement is palpable as they prepare for a journey into the mountains, armed with rifles and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. During their first encounters, they reminisce about their previous travels and discuss the vibrant history of the region. Jack's enthusiasm contrasts with the harsh realities presented by Hugh regarding the challenges faced by local Native American tribes. This blend of youthful curiosity and somber reflections promises a richly layered narrative addressing both the adventure of exploration and the impact of changing times on indigenous cultures.
Cornelia Meigs
The Hill of Adventure
"The Hill of Adventure" by Adair Aldon is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Beatrice Deems, a sixteen-year-old girl who navigates her new life in a Montana town called Ely, which she recently moved to with her family. There, she encounters various challenges as she explores the surrounding mountains and interacts with the locals, all the while grappling with her responsibilities towards her ailing aunt and the mysterious circumstances of the area. The opening of the novel introduces Beatrice as she prepares to ride her new horse, Buck, through the rugged landscape of the Rocky Mountains. She experiences both excitement and trepidation as she ventures up to a piece of land left to her by her father. As Beatrice settles into her new home, she reflects on her family's recent relocation due to her Aunt Anna's health issues. The chapter sets the stage for her adventures, foreshadowing encounters with neighbors and hints at tensions in the nearby town related to a labor strike. This initial exploration underscores Beatrice's transition into a more independent and adventurous life as she begins to understand the complexities of her new environment.
Alice B. Emerson
Ruth Fielding at Silver Ranch; Or, Schoolgirls Among the Cowboys
"Ruth Fielding at Silver Ranch; Or, Schoolgirls Among the Cowboys" by Alice B. Emerson is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. This installment of the Ruth Fielding series follows the main character, Ruth Fielding, along with her friends as they transition from their schoolgirl lives to a summer adventure on a Montana ranch. The story presents a blend of camaraderie, new experiences, and the challenges of adapting to ranch life, especially in the presence of cattle, cowboys, and the uncertainties of the West. The beginning of the story introduces readers to Silver Ranch and its eccentric owner, Bill Hicks, along with several other colorful characters, including his niece, Jane Ann Hicks. As the characters embark on their journey, Ruth and her companions encounter comedic challenges that arise from the ranch's cowboy culture, including a rogue steer named "Old Trouble-Maker." The narrative sets the stage for a lively exploration of friendship and adventure, highlighting Ruth's determination, the playful rivalry among the girls, and hints of deeper personal issues, such as Ruth's concern for her uncle's financial troubles linked to a mining investment. Overall, the opening portion establishes an engaging mix of fun and tension, coupled with the promise of further exploits at Silver Ranch.
Alice B. Emerson
Ruth Fielding at Golden Pass : $b or, the perils of an artificial avalanche
"Ruth Fielding at Golden Pass : or, the perils of an artificial avalanche" by Alice B. Emerson is a young adult adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows motion-picture pioneer Ruth Fielding as she premieres her latest hit and then leads her company west to film a new drama amid the peaks and canyons of Montana’s Golden Pass. Professional rivalries, a temperamental leading lady, and the dangers of mountain filmmaking—including a staged avalanche—put Ruth, her chum Helen, and business partner Tom to the test. The opening of the novel finds Ruth back in Cheslow for the triumphant premiere of her film “Snowblind,” where a sudden explosion and smoke cause a theater panic until Tom rescues her. Reunited with old Briarwood friends and buoyed by praise from studio head Mr. Hammond, Ruth commits to a new Western picture at Golden Pass. She signs rugged star Layton Boardman (to Tom’s unease about rival mogul Sol Bloomberg) and hires glamorous, volatile Viola Callahan despite the cost. After a warm house party at the Red Mill, the company heads west, and in Chicago Ruth spots Viola in furtive talk with Bloomberg’s agent, stirring suspicion yet not halting the trip. They reach Montana, take quarters at Headwaters Ranch, and as Boardman’s horsemanship wins over the cowboys, Ruth readies to scout locations for the perilous mountain scenes ahead.
Recently surfaced classics