Subject
Ocean travel -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Harold Bindloss
Sunshine and snow
"Sunshine and Snow" by Harold Bindloss is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Charley Gordon, a young boy at Firdene School, as he navigates the challenges brought on by financial hardship and the loss of family. The narrative highlights his growth as he transitions from school days filled with childish pursuits to a rugged life as a settler on the prairies of Canada, facing trials that test his resilience and emerging sense of responsibility. The opening of the story introduces Charley during a winter paper-chase at Firdene School, where he excels in both academics and athletic pursuits. However, a profound change occurs when he learns from his brother, Arthur, that they must abandon their hopes of military careers due to financial troubles that have resulted in the loss of their family’s savings. Faced with the challenge of relocating to Canada for a new start, Charley grapples with disappointment and uncertainty about the future. As he adjusts to the harsh realities of prairie life, enduring physical labor and the rigors of farming, the opening chapters set the stage for Charley’s transformation from a proud schoolboy to a capable young man, learning valuable lessons about hard work and adversity.
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.
Laura Lee Hope
Bunny Brown and his sister Sue on the rolling ocean
"Bunny Brown and His Sister Sue on the Rolling Ocean" by Laura Lee Hope is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. This charming tale follows two young siblings, Bunny and Sue Brown, as they embark on a journey filled with imaginative play and real-life adventures, including a thrilling trip on a ship to the West Indies. The vibrant and playful interactions between Bunny and Sue capture the wonder and excitement of childhood as they navigate through both pretend scenarios and unexpected events. The opening portion of the story introduces Bunny and Sue engaging in imaginative play, specifically pretending to run a store, which soon gets interrupted by the commotion of a runaway horse. This incident results in the unexpected appearance of a sailor who has fallen off his horse, introducing a storyline involving mystery and treasure tied to his lost son. As the children react with innocence and enthusiasm to the chaos unfolding around them, readers are drawn into a whimsical narrative that sets the stage for their upcoming adventures on the ocean, filled with potential for treasure hunting and unique encounters.
Mary Grant Bruce
From Billabong to London
"From Billabong to London" by Mary Grant Bruce is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Linton family, especially focusing on young Jim and his sister Norah, as they navigate life at their rural Australian homestead, Billabong, amidst the backdrop of World War I. Themes of adventure, growth, and the challenges brought by the war are expected to unfold throughout the narrative as the characters prepare for a significant transition. The opening of the novel introduces readers to the idyllic homestead of Billabong, with its sprawling gardens and welcoming atmosphere, setting up the peaceful life the characters lead before the impending upheavals of war. We meet the central figures, including David Linton, the nurturing father; Jim, who is grappling with the desire to enlist; and Norah, who not only cares for the home and animals but is also eager to partake in the upcoming journey to England with her father and brother. The relationships and daily activities at Billabong are depicted in a lively manner, hinting at a mixture of both excitement and apprehension as the family braves the uncertainties of the world beyond their home.
Carolyn Judson Burnett
The Blue Grass Seminary Girls on the Water Or, Exciting Adventures on a Summer Cruise Through the Panama Canal
"The Blue Grass Seminary Girls on the Water" by Carolyn Judson Burnett is a fictional novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure story follows the enthusiastic and spirited characters, particularly Shirley Willing and her close friend Mabel Ashton, as they set out for a summer trip filled with excitement and unexpected turns related to their journey. At its heart, the book explores themes of friendship, courage, and adventure against the backdrop of an era marked by exploration and wonder. At the start of the novel, Shirley and Mabel express their desire for adventure, which quickly leads to a planning session with their fathers to embark on a trip through the Panama Canal. The early chapters introduce us to their lively personalities, emphasizing their close bond and occasional flirtation with danger. As they prepare for their journey, readers are drawn into their childhood reminiscences and plans, amidst charming mischief. The introduction of Dick Stanley, a young reporter who aims to join their voyage, adds an element of romantic tension and intrigue, setting the stage for the thrilling escapades that await them.
Helen Leah Reed
Irma in Italy: A Travel Story
"Irma in Italy: A Travel Story" by Helen Leah Reed is a travel narrative written in the early 20th century. The story follows a sixteen-year-old girl named Irma as she embarks on a journey from her home to Italy, leaving behind friends and school for a unique opportunity to experience European culture. Throughout her travels, Irma contemplates her studies, friendships, and the adventures awaiting her. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Irma and her friends as they discuss her impending departure for Europe. Despite the excitement, there are hints of concern regarding her schoolwork and the impact of her absence on her studies. Irma’s journey begins as she sets off with her Aunt Caroline and Uncle Jim to explore Naples and Italy, highlighting her observations about family, friendships, and the emotional weight of leaving home. The beginning establishes Irma’s character as thoughtful and eager, setting the stage for her adventures and discoveries in Italy.
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.
Evelyn Raymond
Dorothy's Travels
"Dorothy's Travels" by Evelyn Raymond is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young girl named Dorothy, who embarks on an adventurous journey with her friends and teacher during their summer vacation. As they travel down the Hudson River, Dorothy encounters various situations that challenge her and reveal deeper emotional connections with her fellow travelers. At the start of the narrative, Dorothy is excited and a bit anxious as she prepares to set sail on the "Mary Powell." Among her friends is Alfaretta, a mountain girl who unexpectedly decides to join Dorothy for part of her journey. The opening chapters introduce an array of characters and highlight the spontaneous spirit of youth as the girls navigate their way through excitement and mishaps. Dorothy's impulsive nature leads her into trouble when she chases after a mysterious "shiny man" she suspects may have stolen her purse, ultimately causing her to get lost in the bustling streets of New York City. The early scenes set the stage for a heartfelt exploration of friendship, adventure, and personal growth.
Gordon Stables
In the Land of the Great Snow Bear: A Tale of Love and Heroism
"In the Land of the Great Snow Bear: A Tale of Love and Heroism" by Gordon Stables is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story follows Claude Alwyn, a young boy living at Dunallan Towers, as he grows up in a picturesque Highland setting, exploring themes of love, adventure, and the supernatural bonds one can have with nature, particularly through his connection to a snow-white gull. The narrative seems enriched with a sense of nostalgia and an exploration of the challenges faced by the characters both romantically and in the harsh wilderness. The opening of the tale introduces us to Dunallan Towers and its inhabitants, particularly young Claude Alwyn and his mother, Lady Alwyn. It paints a somber yet enchanting picture of their life, detailing the joy of Claude’s birth and the surrounding community's reactions, and hints at tragic foreshadowing with the impending demise of Lord Alwyn. As the story unfolds, readers are introduced to the bond between Claude and a snow-bird that became a loyal companion during his childhood adventures. The narrative blends elements of nature and mysticism, setting the stage for Claude’s formative years and the adventures that lie ahead, enriched by the deeper emotional layers woven through his relationships with family, friends, and the landscape around him.
Lillian Elizabeth Roy
Polly's Southern Cruise
"Polly's Southern Cruise" by Lillian Elizabeth Roy is a fiction novel written in the early 20th century. Centered around the adventures of two young women, Polly Brewster and her friend Eleanor Maynard, the narrative focuses on their excitement and challenges as they embark on a yachting trip from New York to South America aboard Mr. Dalken's yacht. Their journey is filled with personal dynamics, including the arrival of notable characters like Mrs. Courtney and Elizabeth Dalken, which leads to both camaraderie and conflicts among the group. The opening of the novel presents Polly and Eleanor as they finalize plans for the cruise and prepare to present their ideas to their friends. They intend to negotiate the itinerary for their journey while dealing with the complexities of friendship and rivalry, especially concerning Elizabeth and her relationships. As they gather for dinner at Mr. Dalken's apartment to discuss the voyage, underlying tensions surface, particularly related to Elizabeth's character and her potential impact on the group’s dynamic. This sets the stage for the forthcoming adventures, with themes of exploration, friendship, and social class interwoven throughout this lively narrative.
Clarence Young
The Motor Boys Bound for Home; or, Ned, Bob and Jerry on the Wrecked Troopship
"The Motor Boys Bound for Home; or, Ned, Bob and Jerry on the Wrecked Troopship" by Clarence Young is a novel written in the early 20th century. This story follows three adventurous boys—Ned, Bob, and Jerry—as they embark on a tumultuous journey home after serving in the military during World War I. As they travel on the transport ship "Sherman", their experiences take a dramatic turn due to unforeseen mishaps and a mysterious incident that hints at sabotage. The opening of the book introduces the boys aboard the transport ship as they leave Brest, France, filled with excitement for their return home. Amid the hustle and bustle on deck, humor is shared between the characters, but tension soon brews when the ship unexpectedly turns back toward port due to a reported malfunction. As confusion ripples through the vessel, Jerry attributes it to potential sabotage linked to a suspicious little man, known as "le cochon," whom they've encountered before. The suspense escalates with an explosion in the engine room, leading to their ship being disabled at sea, and casting the boys into a web of mystery as they prepare for the next developments in their gripping adventure.
Edward Stratemeyer
Dave Porter in the Far North; Or, The Pluck of an American Schoolboy
"DAVE PORTER IN THE FAR NORTH: Or, The Pluck of an American Schoolboy" by Edward Stratemeyer is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. This story is part of the "Dave Porter Series," which chronicles the adventures of the titular character, Dave Porter, an American schoolboy. In this installment, the plot revolves around Dave's journey to find his father and sister, with themes of friendship, bravery, and personal growth as he navigates challenges both familiar and new. The opening of the story introduces readers to Dave Porter as he boards a train with his friends after the Thanksgiving holidays. He reflects on his concerns about a lack of communication from his family while engaging in light-hearted discussions with his companions. The dynamic among the boys is established, hinting at past conflicts with rivals such as Nat Poole. As the train journey takes an unexpected turn when they find themselves traveling through severe weather conditions, it sets the stage for future adventures and potential dangers. The tone is lively and filled with camaraderie, showcasing the character development and relationships that are central to the narrative as they prepare for what lies ahead.
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