Subject
Rocky Mountains -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Ambrose Newcomb
Wings Over the Rockies; Or, Jack Ralston's New Cloud Chaser
"Wings Over the Rockies; Or, Jack Ralston's New Cloud Chaser" by Ambrose Newcomb is a fictional adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around two Secret Service pilots, Jack Ralston and Gabe "Perk" Perkiser, who are testing a new aircraft while waiting for their next assignment. As they prepare for flying missions, both men demonstrate their excitement for flying and their strong camaraderie, which sets the stage for thrilling escapades in the skies. At the start of the narrative, Jack and Perk enthusiastically test their state-of-the-art plane and exchange banter that reflects their close friendship and eagerness for action. They anticipate new orders from their superiors and share concerns about a missing air mail pilot named Buddy Warner, whose fate has become a mystery. The tension rises when they encounter suspicious figures watching them closely, leading to an action-packed showdown. With a blend of humor, camaraderie, and a sense of duty, the opening establishes a fascinating premise filled with aerial adventure, intrigue, and the thrill of the unknown.
George Bird Grinnell
Jack the Young Trapper: An Eastern Boy's Fur Hunting in the Rocky Mountains
"Jack the Young Trapper: An Eastern Boy's Fur Hunting in the Rocky Mountains" by George Bird Grinnell is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows the adventures of Jack Danvers, a young boy from the East who travels to the Rocky Mountains to learn about trapping and fur hunting during the transformative years of America’s westward expansion. With a mix of excitement and learning, Jack’s journey unfolds in a wilderness rich with wildlife, including antelope and beaver, aiming to capture the spirit of the old trappers and the rugged beauty of the western landscape. The opening of the novel introduces Jack Danvers as he returns to his uncle's ranch after a long winter away at school. Full of enthusiasm, he is eager to reconnect with old friends and the natural beauty of the prairie. As he settles in, a conversation between Jack, his uncle Mr. Sturgis, and his friend Hugh Johnson hints at plans for a summer expedition—potentially trapping beaver in North Park. This setting lays the groundwork for Jack's upcoming adventures, showcasing themes of friendship, the challenges of wilderness survival, and the excitement of discovery as they prepare to embark on their trapping journey into the Rocky Mountains.
Percy Keese Fitzhugh
Westy Martin in the Rockies
"Westy Martin in the Rockies" by Percy Keese Fitzhugh is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Westy Martin, a young scout, who is about to embark on an exciting adventure in the Rocky Mountains with Uncle Jeb Rushmore, an experienced old scout. Themes of exploration, friendship, and the spirit of scouting are likely to be prevalent throughout the narrative. The opening portion of the book introduces Westy Martin at Temple Camp, where he is overwhelmed by the announcement that Uncle Jeb has chosen him for a journey to the Rockies. The scene is filled with the camaraderie of summer camp, where meals are plentiful and laughter is abundant, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Westy grapples with mixed emotions, including disbelief and excitement, as he thinks about the upcoming adventure and his responsibilities back home. The interactions with his fellow scouts, the anticipation of leaving, and the introduction of Uncle Jeb help set the stage for the thrilling adventures that await them.
Clarence Young
The Motor Boys Over the Rockies; Or, A Mystery of the Air
"The Motor Boys Over the Rockies; Or, A Mystery of the Air" by Clarence Young is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure story follows the escapades of a trio known as "The Motor Boys"—Ned, Bob, and Jerry—as they navigate challenges in their airship, the "Comet". Their journey is launched by the theft of their beloved craft, which propels them into a series of thrilling mysteries that intertwine their past adventures with new dilemmas, particularly an involving figure from their previous escapades, Jackson Bell. At the start of the novel, the boys are relaxing on a hot afternoon, debating where to go on their vacation in their airship. Their plans are abruptly disrupted when a frantic young boy arrives with news that their airship has been stolen. This revelation sparks immediate action among the trio, as they rush to investigate. They discover signs of forced entry and a missing watchman, Sud Snuffles. As they piece together what happened, clues lead them towards the involvement of their known adversary, Noddy Nixon, and to Jackson Bell, a mysterious old man whose story remains entangled with their quest to retrieve not only their airship but also unravel the larger mystery surrounding Bell's intentions.
Grace May North
Meg of Mystery Mountain
"Meg of Mystery Mountain" by Grace May North is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around a group of girls, primarily focusing on Jane Abbott, a selfish and beautiful young woman who struggles with the realities of her family's financial downfall. As they transition from the comforts of the Highacres Seminary to the less glamorous life in the mountains, the narrative explores themes of personal growth, friendship, and the clash between social status and true character. At the start of the book, we meet Jane Abbott and her friends as they depart the prestigious Highacres Seminary. Jane grapples with her pride and vanity, feeling mortified at the thought of returning to her family's modest home in Edgemere after their father's financial troubles. The dynamics of her friendships are tested when she initially expresses disinterest in supporting her ailing brother, Dan, who has worked hard to ensure she could enjoy her time at the seminary. Despite her self-absorbed nature, Jane eventually decides to accompany Dan on a journey to their father's cabin in the mountains, setting the stage for her potential character development as they face life's challenges together.
Sidford F. (Sidford Frederick) Hamp
The treasure of Mushroom Rock : $b A story of prospecting in the Rocky Mountains
"The Treasure of Mushroom Rock: A Story of Prospecting in the Rocky Mountains" by Sidford F. Hamp is a novel written in the late 19th century. This adventurous tale seems to revolve around the escapades of two boys, Tom Swayne and Percy Goodall, who embark on a daring journey full of mischief, exploration, and the quest for treasure in the Rocky Mountains. The story unfolds through their daring escapes and misadventures as they attempt to navigate their way through challenges that test their friendship and resolve. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Tom and Percy at Moseley’s school where they devise a plan to escape after some mischievous activities. Their escape leads them to uncover a hidden passage in a castle, and eventually, the consequences of their actions unfold as they deal with the repercussions of poaching and their subsequent decision to run away. The opening chapters set a thrilling tone for the story, showcasing a blend of youthful adventure and the consequences that follow, hinting at the exploration of both the Rocky Mountains and their personal growth throughout their journey.
Frank Gee Patchin
The Pony Rider Boys in the Rockies; Or, The Secret of the Lost Claim
"The Pony Rider Boys in the Rockies; Or, The Secret of the Lost Claim" by Frank Gee Patchin is an adventurous novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story follows a group of boys, particularly focusing on Tad Butler, as they engage in thrilling outdoor exploits and horse riding adventures, aimed at exploring the natural beauty and mystery of the Rocky Mountains. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Tad Butler, an aspiring rider with a deep love for ponies, who dreams of owning one. Alongside his wealthy friends Walter Perkins and Chunky, Tad's passion for horses shines, particularly when he impressively rides Walter’s new pony, Jo-Jo. As their camaraderie develops, the group forms a club named the Pony Rider Boys and soon embarks on plans for an adventurous summer trip into the Rockies. However, Tad’s dream of joining them seems jeopardized by his lack of a pony and his responsibilities at home. This opening sets the stage for a tale filled with adventure, friendship, and the spirit of exploration, suggesting that the narrative will blend youthful endeavor with themes of loyalty and ambition as the characters journey into the wilderness.
George Bird Grinnell
Jack, the Young Ranchman: A Boy's Adventures in the Rockies
"Jack, the Young Ranchman: A Boy's Adventures in the Rockies" by George Bird Grinnell is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around a young boy named Jack Danvers, who embarks on an adventure to his uncle's ranch in the Rockies, where he aspires to become a cowboy and learn about life in the wild. Through the experiences of Jack, the narrative offers a vivid depiction of ranch life and the challenges faced by those who inhabit the rugged landscapes of the American West. At the start of the novel, Jack, a pale and bookish fourteen-year-old from New York City, prepares to leave for his uncle Will Sturgis's ranch, following a physician’s advice for a healthier lifestyle. He expresses enthusiasm for the adventure ahead, despite acknowledging the hardships that come with ranch life, such as rough weather and physical labor. As he arrives at the ranch, he is introduced to the ways of cattle ranching, the beauty of the Rockies, and the animals that dwell there. The story sets the stage for Jack's growth and learning as he engages with nature, wildlife, and the skills necessary for survival, all while forming relationships with the ranch hands and understanding the intricacies of his new environment.
Harry Castlemon
Frank at Don Carlos' Rancho
"Frank at Don Carlos' Rancho" by Harry Castlemon is a novel written in the late 19th century. This adventurous story unfolds in California, following the escapades of two young cousins, Frank Nelson and Archie Winters, as they encounter thrilling challenges involving horse thieves and a notorious bear named Old Davy. The narrative expertly weaves elements of youthful bravado and exploration amidst the backdrop of the rugged frontier. The opening portion introduces readers to the main characters, Frank and Archie, who are initially disillusioned by what they perceive to be a dull existence at their uncle’s rancho. However, their fortunes quickly change when they realize that adventure is lurking close by, especially with the recent theft of their prized horses and the menace of a grizzly bear known as Old Davy. Frank and Archie, fueled by a mixture of impatience and curiosity, embark on a series of misadventures that include a tumultuous encounter with Old Davy and a determination to recover their lost horses from the band of thieves. The combination of their youthful aspirations for heroism and the looming danger sets the stage for an engaging tale of courage and camaraderie.
D. W. (David W.) Belisle
The American family Robinson : $b or, The adventures of a family lost in the great desert of the West.
"The American Family Robinson; or, The Adventures of a Family Lost in the Great Desert of the West" by D. W. Belisle is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The narrative centers around the Duncan family, led by the father, Mr. Duncan, who embarks on a journey westward in search of new opportunities. Through their adventures in the wilderness, the family confronts dangers, encounters Native American tribes, and uncovers relics of ancient civilizations, presenting a vivid picture of the challenges and discoveries of frontier life. At the start of the story, Mr. Duncan expresses discontent with the encroachment of civilization on his life as a woodsman and decides to move his family westward in pursuit of a better life. The family, consisting of Mr. and Mrs. Duncan and their six children, prepares for the journey, selling their farm to venture into the uncharted territories. As they embark on their expedition, they face numerous trials, including the loss of two of their children, Edward and Anne, who become separated during a hunting trip. Their search leads to encounters with danger, such as a wolf attack, as well as awe-inspiring relics of a past civilization, setting the stage for the family's thrilling and tumultuous adventure in the American West.
Edwin L. (Edwin Legrand) Sabin
Pluck on the Long Trail; Or, Boy Scouts in the Rockies
"Pluck on the Long Trail; Or, Boy Scouts in the Rockies" by Edwin L. Sabin is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of young Boy Scouts from Colorado, led by their red-headed patrol leader, Roger Franklin, as they embark on an ambitious journey to deliver a secret message across the challenging Rocky Mountains. The narrative emphasizes themes of camaraderie, self-reliance, and the joys of outdoor discovery. At the start of the story, we are introduced to the Elk Patrol of the 14th Colorado Troop, a tight-knit group of six boys preparing for their challenging quest. Their mission is to traverse one hundred miles through unforgiving terrain, navigating potential dangers from nature and rival boys who wish to thwart their progress. As they set out equipped only with their knowledge of scoutcraft, personal skills, and pack burros, the Scouts face various obstacles, including the threat of rival campers. The boys' excitement and determination are palpable as they prepare to test their abilities and bond through shared challenges, setting the stage for an engaging tale of adventure and personal growth.
St. George Rathborne
Rocky Mountain Boys; Or, Camping in the Big Game Country
"Rocky Mountain Boys; Or, Camping in the Big Game Country" by St. George Rathborne is an adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows two boys, Tom Tucker and Felix Edmondson, who embark on an expedition to the Rocky Mountains for trapping and hunting, seeking the thrills and challenges of the wilderness. At the start of the narrative, Tom and Felix are nearing their destination—a dugout in the foothills where they plan to spend a couple of months hunting and enjoying nature. As they arrive at this rustic cabin, they quickly encounter a bobcat that has taken up residence inside, setting the tone for their exciting adventures in the wild. The boys' anticipation of impending challenges and the promise of hunting grizzly bears drive the storyline, hinting at the camaraderie, resourcefulness, and peril they are likely to face as they navigate the untamed wilderness together.
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