Subject
Smuggling -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Dorothy Wayne
Dorothy Dixon and the Mystery Plane
"Dorothy Dixon and the Mystery Plane" by Dorothy Wayne is a mystery novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the adventurous protagonist, Dorothy Dixon, a keen aviatrix with a knack for solving mysteries, as she investigates a suspicious seaplane that has been flying over her beach club repeatedly. With her friend Terry, Dorothy finds herself embroiled in danger when their curiosity leads them to confront a bearded aviator, ultimately tying their adventure to a larger mystery of diamond smuggling. The opening of the novel sets the stage on a summer day at a beach club, where Dorothy and her friends enjoy a carefree afternoon until they spot a mysterious plane that appears to be in distress. As Dorothy displays her bravery and keen interest in aviation, she engages the pilot in conversation, only to be met with hostility. Following a series of comedic but alarming encounters, including an altercation with the aviator that turns physical, Dorothy reveals her determination to uncover the truth behind the plane and its enigmatic pilot, setting off a chain of thrilling events that lead to Terry's mysterious disappearance and Dorothy’s own harrowing experiences with the smuggling gang. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Dorothy's instincts and her resourceful nature will be crucial in solving the mystery and saving those she cares about.
Edward P. Hendrick
Copper Coleson's Ghost
"Copper Coleson's Ghost" by Edward P. Hendrick is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set in the fictional town of Truesdell, the story revolves around a group of teenage friends who become intrigued by the mysterious and abandoned Coleson house, rumored to be haunted. The main characters, including Ned Blake and his newly acquainted friend Dick Somers, embark on an adventure that intertwines their youthful camaraderie with elements of mystery and ghostly legends. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Ned Blake and his friends as they engage in typical teenage activities of summer, including climbing trees and working out in makeshift gyms. They notice a new boy, Dick Somers, moving into the neighborhood, and their initial interactions hint at both friendships and potential conflicts, particularly with a local bully named Dan Slade. The narrative quickly shifts as the boys head out to explore the legend of Copper Coleson’s mine and the strange happenings surrounding it, setting the stage for a blend of adventure and supernatural elements that promise to engage the reader throughout the story.
Erle Spencer
Contraband: A Tale of Modern Smugglers
"Contraband: A Tale of Modern Smugglers" by E. R. Spencer is a novel written in the early 20th century. This engaging adventure story follows Dare Stanley, a young man eager to join his father, Captain Stanley, who has recently taken up the role of special inspector in the Revenue Service amidst rampant smuggling activities in the Newfoundland coastal region. The book delves into the challenges of combating smuggling and the dangers associated with it. At the start of the story, Dare is aboard the S.S. "Glenbow", sailing towards St. Lawrence. He yearns for adventure and is intrigued by conversations among the ship's passengers about the rampant smuggling taking place in Saltern Bay. As he arrives in Saltern, he learns of his father's recent injuries sustained during an encounter with smugglers, highlighting the treacherous environment they are in. The opening sections set the stage for the unfolding conflict, with Dare eager to help his father investigate the smuggling operations and discover the culprits involved. As the plot progresses, Dare's determination to protect his family's reputation and support his father becomes the primary motivation, promising an exciting journey filled with intrigue and peril.
Claude A. LaBelle
The Ranger Boys and the Border Smugglers
"The Ranger Boys and the Border Smugglers" by Claude A. LaBelle is a novel written in the early 20th century, part of a series aimed at young readers. This adventure tale follows three boys—Garry Boone, Phil Durant, and Dick Wallace—as they embark on a quest to investigate smuggling activities along the Canadian border. As public service-minded youths, they are determined to assist the Customs Chief in uncovering a band of fur smugglers and navigate various challenges that come their way. At the start of the book, the boys gather in the Customs Chief's office in Maine, where they receive their mission brief. They are tasked with acting as campers while investigating the smuggling operations in the illicitly trafficked forests near the border. The narrative introduces their personalities, backstory, and camaraderie, establishing the setting for their upcoming adventures. Shortly after departing for Bangor, they experience an unexpected turn of events as they stumble upon an urgent situation involving a potential crime, leading to their unexpected interaction with law enforcement. The opening chapters set the tone for an action-packed story rich in adventure and youthful bravery.
William Henry Giles Kingston
Washed Ashore; Or, The Tower of Stormount Bay
"Washed Ashore; or, The Tower of Stormount Bay" by W.H.G. Kingston is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around young Jack Askew, who lives in Stormount Tower on the south coast of England. His adventurous spirit leads him into trouble with smugglers, setting the stage for a narrative filled with themes of courage, family ties, and the hope of rescue amidst perilous circumstances. At the start of the book, we are introduced to Stormount Tower, a historical and picturesque structure overlooking the sea, inhabited by Captain Askew, his family, and their loyal servant Tom. Jack Askew, the captain's son, becomes embroiled in an escapade with smugglers that culminates in a critical decision to go to sea to escape punishment. Meanwhile, his family is torn with worry for his safety, leading to mysterious happenings and the eventual quest to uncover the truth about Jack's fate. With the gripping backdrop of coastal life, elements of adventure, and budding relationships, the opening encapsulates a vivid world where danger lurks close to home, making the story compelling for young adult readers.
Ross Kay
The Go Ahead Boys on Smugglers' Island
"The Go Ahead Boys on Smugglers' Island" by Ross Kay is a fictional adventure story written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows a group of boys, particularly focusing on Fred Button, John Clemens, Grant Jones, and George Washington Sanders, as they embark on a fishing trip filled with unexpected thrills and challenges. Their journey takes a turn when they find themselves involved with mysterious figures on an island and an encounter that hints at larger dangers related to smuggling and intrigue. At the start of the book, the boys are excitedly setting out on a fishing expedition aboard the motorboat "Gadabout", under the watchful eye of their captain. The atmosphere is light-hearted as they discuss various topics and joke with one another, showcasing their camaraderie. However, the mood quickly shifts when they notice a mysterious man signaling from the shore of Cockburn Island, leading to a series of events that involve storms, near disasters, and ultimately, the intrigue surrounding their unexpected encounters with strangers, including a mysterious house and a Japanese servant. As tension builds with the disappearance of their boat and the captain's suspicious behavior, the boys are left questioning their safety and the motives of those around them, setting the stage for an exciting adventure filled with mystery and action.
Willard F. Baker
The Boy Ranchers on Roaring River; Or, Diamond X and the Chinese Smugglers
"The Boy Ranchers on Roaring River; Or, Diamond X and the Chinese Smugglers" by Willard F. Baker is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. This book is part of a series focusing on young ranchers as they face various challenges and mysteries in the American West. The story centers on three boys—Nort, Dick, and Bud—as they embark on an exciting mission involving smuggling and a mysterious sheep ranch that raises suspicion. The opening of the book introduces the main characters at their ranch where they have been called for a job. They're soon given a task by Bud’s father, Mr. Merkel, to manage a sheep ranch near Roaring River, amidst the backdrop of rumors concerning smuggling activities in the area. The boys's adventure begins when they overhear suspicious conversations hinting at illegal dealings connected to the arrival of Chinese immigrants. Their excitement escalates upon learning of the shooting of a marshal linked to smugglers, and they quickly set off to uncover the mystery, facing dangers such as a potential cyclone, unexpected enemies, and intrigue as they arrive at their new ranch. The camaraderie among the boys and their swift action in the face of peril sets the stage for a thrilling narrative.
Janet Aldridge
The Meadow-Brook Girls by the Sea; Or, The Loss of The Lonesome Bar
"The Meadow-Brook Girls by the Sea; Or, The Loss of The Lonesome Bar" by Janet Aldridge is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of spirited young girls, known as the Meadow-Brook Girls, who embark on a seemingly mysterious summer excursion led by their guardian, Miss Elting. What begins as an engaging journey filled with anticipation quickly turns into an adventure fraught with unexpected challenges, including a near-disastrous car accident that leaves them submerged in a cold pond. The beginning of the narrative introduces the Meadow-Brook Girls as they set off for a surprise destination, only to find themselves facing mishaps that test their bravery and camaraderie. As they travel down a narrow road in Jane's automobile, they encounter a sudden rainstorm, leading to a moment of panic when their vehicle plunges into a pond. Struggling to free themselves from the sinking car, the girls display resilience and teamwork as they navigate the water. This opening segment establishes the tone for a thrilling adventure filled with humor, suspense, and the spirit of friendship, as the girls come together to overcome challenges that will continue throughout their journey.
Edward Berens
Christmas Stories Containing John Wildgoose the Poacher, the Smuggler, and Good-nature, or Parish Matters
"Christmas Stories" by Edward Berens is a collection of short stories written in the early 19th century. The opening tale, "The History of John Wildgoose," focuses on the life of Thomas Wildgoose, a hardworking man who faces tragedy and moral dilemmas after becoming a poacher. The narrative explores themes of conformity to law, family responsibility, and the impact of poor choices on both personal and community levels. The beginning of the collection introduces Thomas Wildgoose, who leads a simple, honest life until a tragic accident leaves him seriously injured. As he prepares for his death, he makes provisions for his family, revealing his love for them. The story then transitions to his wife, Susan, who struggles to cope with her husband's passing while finding a way to support her children. The tale hints at the challenges their children, particularly their son John, will face as he is drawn into a life of poaching due to bad company, setting the stage for a moral decline that threatens to unravel their family's integrity.
Gerald Breckenridge
The Radio Boys with the Revenue Guards
"The Radio Boys with the Revenue Guards" by Gerald Breckenridge is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a trio of boys—Frank, Jack, and Bob—who engage in thrilling escapades involving radio technology, smuggling plots, and mystery as they uncover secrets surrounding their seaside home. Their past experiences with daring adventures set the stage for an exciting summer where they investigate peculiar happenings near Starfish Cove. The opening of the book introduces the main characters as they discuss their previous summer adventures while enjoying their vacation at their radio station on Long Island. As Frank reminisces about past encounters with bandits and smugglers, Jack interrupts him, engrossed in listening to their radio equipment, which has been plagued by mysterious interference. Soon after, their friend Bob arrives, excitedly sharing that he discovered strange tracks left by a peg-legged man leading to a hidden radio station. The boys immediately sense that they are on the brink of a new mystery, prompting them to investigate further and setting the stage for their next adventurous quest.
Robert Shaler
The Boy Scouts on Picket Duty
"The Boy Scouts on Picket Duty" by Robert Shaler is an adventure novel written during the early 20th century. The story revolves around a group of Boy Scouts who embark on a summer expedition, encountering mystery and danger as they become involved in thwarting smugglers operating along the Florida coast. The main characters include Captain Vinton and a group of young scouts, particularly highlighting Hugh, who faces perilous situations that challenge their courage and resourcefulness. The opening of the story sets the scene aboard the sloop "Arrow", where Captain Vinton is on a mission to report suspicious activity from a mysterious steamer seen cruising near the shore. Along with a party of scouts and a Seminole guide, they head toward Key West, fueled by their curiosity and a sense of duty. As they sail, the scouts learn of a potential smuggling operation involving contraband cargo meant for nefarious purposes. The narrative introduces a tense atmosphere as the boys become embroiled in a thrilling chase against the backdrop of the beautiful yet dangerous Florida coastline, hinting at the unfolding adventures that await them.
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