Subject
South America -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
George Manville Fenn
Old Gold: The Cruise of the "Jason" Brig
"Old Gold: The Cruise of the 'Jason' Brig" by George Manville Fenn is an adventure novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around a couple of wealthy Englishmen who embark on an unprecedented journey to explore the Amazon River, accompanied by a brash young man named Briscoe. As they navigate the treacherous waters of South America, they encounter local natives, mysterious ruins, and the tantalizing possibility of hidden treasures, all while grappling with the dangers that accompany their ambitious quest. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the oppressive heat of Johnstown, Guiana, where Captain David Banes converses with Sir Humphrey Leigh and his brother Brace over breakfast. As they discuss the impending voyage and Briscoe's unwelcome presence among them, tensions arise about potential risks, including the threats posed by the indigenous people and the perils of navigating unfamiliar waters. The plot quickly escalates as they venture into the Amazon, facing numerous challenges such as attacks from locals and natural obstacles like cataracts, all while searching for fabled treasures hidden in an otherworldly ancient city. The opening sets the stage for a tale of exploration filled with suspense and adventure.
Victor Appleton
Tom Swift in Captivity, Or, A Daring Escape By Airship
"Tom Swift in Captivity, Or, A Daring Escape by Airship" by Victor Appleton is an adventurous novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story follows Tom Swift, a young inventor known for his various escapades with technological marvels, as he embarks on a quest in search of giants in a mysterious land. Accompanied by his loyal friend Ned Newton and the eccentric Mr. Damon, Tom's adventure quickly promises excitement as they navigate the challenges of South America while aiming to rescue a lost circus man. At the start of the narrative, Tom Swift expresses his restlessness after a period of inactivity following various thrilling adventures, prompting him to take a joyride in his aeroplane. His plans, however, are interrupted by Mr. Damon, who presents an intriguing proposition: to capture a giant from a faraway land. As Tom, Ned, and Mr. Damon leap into preparations, they address practical matters such as assembling supplies and hiring native drivers for their expedition. The beginning sets a lively tone, hinting at impending perils and the excitement of a journey filled with the unknown, including encounters with native tribes and wildlife as they strive to achieve their improbable goal.
Roy Rockwood
Bomba the jungle boy : $b or, The old naturalist's secret
"Bomba the Jungle Boy: or, The Old Naturalist's Secret" by Roy Rockwood is an adventure novel published in 1926. The story follows Bomba, a white boy raised in the South American jungle, as he embarks on a quest to uncover the mystery of his origins. Navigating dangerous terrain and encountering various challenges, Bomba must rely on his jungle skills and instincts while grappling with questions of identity and belonging in a world divided between native and white civilization.
Charles Gilson
Treasure of Kings Being the Story of the Discovery of the "Big Fish," or the Quest of the Greater Treasure of the Incas of Peru.
"Treasure of Kings" by Major Charles Gilson is an adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young protagonist, Dick Treadgold, who finds himself drawn into a quest for the legendary treasure of the Incas, spurred on by his encounters with John Bannister, a strong and enigmatic figure. The narrative is set against a backdrop of exploration and danger, mixing elements of thrilling action with the pursuit of gold. At the start of the tale, Dick, a 16-year-old boy, meets the formidable John Bannister on a secluded Sussex beach. Bannister, a man steeped in adventure and mystery, captivates Dick with tales of far-off places and treasures, igniting his desire for exploration. As Dick forms a bond with Bannister, he inadvertently becomes embroiled in a darker plot involving the nefarious Amos Baverstock, who seeks to reclaim a valuable map that holds the key to the Inca treasure. The opening chapters establish a sense of impending adventure mingled with danger, as Dick's life quickly spirals from innocent curiosity into a harrowing escapade full of unexpected turns and threats.
Roy Rockwood
Jack North's Treasure Hunt; Or, Daring Adventures in South America
"Jack North's Treasure Hunt; Or, Daring Adventures in South America" by Roy Rockwood is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The book follows the journey of the main character, Jack North, who is a determined young man seeking a job in his manufacturing town. As he navigates not just the world of work, but also confronts personal rivalries and adventures, Jack's story unfolds amidst the backdrop of South America, where he ultimately finds himself on a quest for treasure. The beginning of the novel introduces us to Jack North as he races to secure a job at John Fowler & Company, eager to prove himself and fend off his rival, Fret Offut. Their competition escalates into a physical confrontation, which Jack ultimately wins, securing the position he desperately needs. As Jack begins his apprenticeship, he faces challenges not only from Fret, who is determined to undermine him, but also from other setbacks at work. His journey shifts gears when he learns he may have the opportunity to travel to South America for his employer, which promises to change his life and set the stage for more daring adventures ahead.
Herbert Strang
The Motor Scout: A Story of Adventure in South America
"The Motor Scout: A Story of Adventure in South America" by Herbert Strang is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Young Tim O’Hagan, a spirited sixteen-year-old boy living in the town of San Rosario in the Peruvian Andes, who gets caught up in thrilling escapades involving a motor-bicycle, brigands, and local politics, including the corrupt governor and the rebellions against the oppressive prefect. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Tim as he takes a wild ride through town with the local gobernador, Señor José Fagasta, who is humorously terrified of the motor-bicycle. The ride quickly turns serious when they are ambushed by brigands, and while Tim manages to escape, he is ultimately left grappling with his conscience about abandoning the gobernador. Subsequently, Tim decides to return and frees Señor Fagasta from captivity, leading to an unexpected friendship. This sets in motion a series of events involving Tim's family, corrupt officials, and a deeper political conflict, propelling the storyline into exciting and risky adventures as the young protagonist navigates his way through schemes and dangers that impact both his family and community.
William Henry Giles Kingston
My First Cruise, and Other stories
"My First Cruise, and Other Stories" by W.H.G. Kingston is a collection of short stories written in the mid-19th century. The first story, which shares the title of the collection, is told through the diary entries of a young midshipman named Pringle Rushforth detailing his experience on his first voyage at sea. This series of tales can be expected to explore themes of adventure, growth, and the adventures of youth in the naval context. The opening of the book introduces Pringle Rushforth as he writes a letter to his brother Harry from aboard a frigate. Filled with excitement, he describes his feelings about becoming a midshipman and details early incidents aboard, including the camaraderie amongst his fellow midshipmen and his initial challenges at sea. His excitement quickly turns to trepidation as he faces the harsh realities of naval life, including a sudden gale and the social dynamics within his crew. This introduction sets the stage for an array of youthful escapades and discoveries during his journey at sea, fascinating for readers interested in nautical adventures and coming-of-age stories.
G. Harvey (George Harvey) Ralphson
Boy Scouts in an Airship; Or, The Warning from the Sky
"Boy Scouts in an Airship; Or, The Warning from the Sky" by G. Harvey Ralphson is an adventurous novel written in the early 20th century. It follows a group of Boy Scouts, primarily focusing on Ned Nestor, Jimmie McGraw, and Sam Leroy, as they are engaged in a secret mission that requires them to fly an airship to South America. The book promises a thrilling journey filled with espionage and danger as the boys navigate both their mission and various adversaries who are intent on thwarting their efforts. At the start of the story, the young scouts are in San Francisco, preparing for their dangerous journey to Paraguay to rescue an American cattleman named Lyman, who has been imprisoned by corrupt officials. Lieutenant Gates, a Secret Service agent, has arrived to brief them, but the boys quickly suspect they are being watched and are not safe. They share concerns about their aeroplane, the Nelson, being in danger from mysterious foes. As the narrative unfolds, they confront secret enemies and explore the intriguing environment of espionage, with an emphasis on their camaraderie and bravery. The opening sets the tone for an action-packed adventure filled with mystery and excitement.
Stanley R. Matthews
Motor Matt's Defiance; or, Around the Horn
"Motor Matt's Defiance; or, Around the Horn" by Stanley R. Matthews is a thrilling adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the daring escapades of Motor Matt, a young mechanic skilled in operating various motor vehicles, including submarines, as he navigates treacherous situations and confronts enemies at sea. The narrative combines elements of suspense and excitement, centering around themes of bravery and cunning in the face of adversity. The opening of the story introduces the young hero, Motor Matt, and his friends as they operate the submarine Grampus, while they fall into both excitement and danger. After rescuing five Chilean convicts from an overturned boat, their situation complicates as they confront treachery from those very convicts, leading to an arrest by the Chilian Navy. Tensions escalate as Matt strives to navigate the challenges presented by the convicts and their connections, all while trying to protect the submarine from potential threats posed by mysterious foreign adversaries. This early intrigue sets the stage for a gripping oceanic adventure filled with unexpected twists and moral dilemmas.
George Manville Fenn
Real Gold: A Story of Adventure
"Real Gold: A Story of Adventure" by George Manville Fenn is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around two boys, Cyril Norton and Perry Campion, as they embark on an adventure in South America, exploring the rich and dangerous environment of the Andes. Themes of friendship, bravery, and the lure of treasure color their journey as they navigate their youthful desires against the backdrop of perilous mountains and the mysterious legacies of the Incas. At the start of the tale, we meet Cyril and Perry fishing half a mile offshore, engaging in playful banter about their surroundings and the nature of the fish. Their conversation reveals Cyril's longing for adventure, hinting that Perry's father, Colonel Campion, is about to embark on a journey to search for hidden treasures. The boys' camaraderie and excitement build as they fantasize about the mythical riches that might lie hidden in the mountains, including those said to have belonged to the Incas. As their chat unfolds, we sense a foreboding tension surrounding treasure-seeking in the dangerous territory guarded by hostile indigenous people, setting the stage for an adventurous and potentially perilous quest.
Edward Sylvester Ellis
Up the Forked River; Or, Adventures in South America
"Up the Forked River; Or, Adventures in South America" by Seward D. Lisle is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around two main characters: Major Jack Starland and his friend, General Fernando De Bambos, as they navigate the tumultuous political landscape of South America while exploring themes of adventure, love, and loyalty. Set in a time when societal and familial connections are deeply remembered, the narrative promises engaging escapades through the wilds of South America with an emotional backstory. The opening of the book introduces us to the bonds between two older gentlemen in San Francisco, Thomas Starland and Teddy Rowland, who reminisce about their adventurous past, including their early days in California and the cherished memories of their families and companions. The focus shifts to the next generation - Jack Starland and Warrenia Rowland, who have grown up together and share a sibling-like bond. As the plot develops, Jack plans an adventurous voyage around Cape Horn with his yacht named "Warrenia," setting the stage for a potential journey fraught with unforeseen challenges. Themes of loyalty, romance, and adventure are teased, hinting at the potential complications that might arise as they embark on their journey.
Mayne Reid
Gaspar the Gaucho: A Story of the Gran Chaco
"Gaspar the Gaucho: A Story of the Gran Chaco" by Captain Mayne Reid is an adventure novel written in the Victorian era. The narrative unfolds in the Gran Chaco region of South America, centering around Ludwig Halberger, a naturalist, and his family, particularly his daughter Francesca, who become embroiled in perilous situations involving indigenous tribes and a nefarious Paraguayan adversary. The story intertwines themes of exploration, survival, and the clash between civilization and the wild. The beginning of the story sets the scene in the vast, largely uncharted territory of the Gran Chaco, highlighting its beauty and dangers. Halberger’s family finds themselves in a precarious position after they attempt to visit the local Tovas tribe, only to discover that their chief, who previously offered them protection, has died. As tensions rise due to the undercurrents of Paraguayan political intrigue, Valdez, a figure from Halberger’s past, seeks to exploit this situation for his own gain. When Francesca and her father are ambushed while exploring the deserted village of the Tovas, Francesca is captured, propelling the narrative toward themes of rescue and treachery as Gaspar the Gaucho is introduced as a key character with the skills necessary to navigate these dangers.
Recently surfaced classics