Subject
United States. Army -- Military life -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Ruby Lorraine Radford
Nancy Dale, Army Nurse
"Nancy Dale, Army Nurse" by Ruby Lorraine Radford is a historical novel written in the mid-20th century. The story follows Nancy Dale, a young nurse who has just joined the Army Nurse Corps during World War II, as she embarks on an exciting and challenging journey into military service. The narrative is set against the backdrop of the war, exploring themes of courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie among women in uniform. At the start of the novel, Nancy bids farewell to her parents as she boards a train headed for her new life in the Army Nurse Corps. Filled with excitement and trepidation, she reflects on her upcoming journey, wishing to be stationed in the South Pacific to reunite with her brother. However, the journey quickly turns perilous when Nancy becomes suspicious of two passengers speaking in German and eventually witnesses a train wreck. As she aids the injured, Nancy demonstrates her skills and resolve, leading to her first glimpse of the chaotic demands of wartime nursing and foreshadowing the trials that lie ahead. The opening sets the stage for a gripping tale of personal and collective bravery amidst the challenges of war.
Roy J. (Roy Judson) Snell
Norma Kent of the WACS
"Norma Kent of the WACS" by Roy J. Snell is a novel written in the early 1940s. The story centers around Norma Kent, a recent college graduate who eagerly joins the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during World War II. As she embarks on her new adventure at Fort Des Moines, she navigates the challenges of basic training while grappling with suspicions of espionage among her fellow recruits. At the start of the book, Norma Kent lies in a barrack full of other WAC recruits, reflecting on her decision to join the Army and the excitement and trepidation that accompanies this new chapter of her life. The opening scenes focus on her interactions with other girls, including a little Italian named Rosa and a tall girl named Lena, who present different dynamics within the group. As Norma adapts to military life, she becomes increasingly aware of her surroundings, including the odd behaviors of some recruits that lead her to suspect spy activity. This mixture of camaraderie, personal growth, and an unfolding mystery sets the stage for her journey in the WAC and the broader challenges faced during the war.
Charles King
Trumpeter Fred: A Story of the Plains
"Trumpeter Fred: A Story of the Plains" by Captain Charles King is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is centered around a young boy named Fred Waller, who aspires to follow in his father's footsteps as a soldier while navigating the challenges of military life during a time of conflict with Native American tribes. The book captures the spirit of adventure and the harsh realities of frontier life in the American West. At the start of the narrative, Fred is introduced as a trumpeter in "B" Troop, stationed at the Niobrara River along with a young and inexperienced lieutenant, Blunt. The troop is thrust into a perilous situation after Fred mysteriously vanishes, apparently having deserted, alongside a significant sum of money that has gone missing. As the unfolding story reveals through the eyes of the soldiers and the old sergeant, Waller, Fred's father, there are hints of deeper treachery intertwined with the dangers they face from the surrounding tribes. The opening sets up a tension-filled adventure, with Fred's character shown to be both brave and determined, leading to questions about loyalty, honor, and the implications of choice amid the chaos of war.
Charles King
From School to Battle-field: A Story of the War Days
"From School to Battle-field: A Story of the War Days" by Captain Charles King is a historical fiction novel written in the late 19th century. The story likely revolves around the experiences of schoolboys in New York City as they transition from their mundane school lives into the thrilling chaos of war, touching on themes of camaraderie and courage. The primary characters introduced are two boys, nicknamed Snipe and Shorty, who seem to embody the spirit of youthful adventure against the backdrop of an impending conflict. At the start of the narrative, Snipe and Shorty are depicted as friends grappling with the disappointment of a rainy Saturday that ruins their plans for a baseball game. Through their banter and playful grievances about their school life, the reader gets a glimpse of their characterization, as well as a nostalgic view of boyhood in a historical context. Their day turns unexpectedly exciting as they witness the commotion of the volunteer fire department responding to a blaze, highlighting both their youthful exuberance and the gritty reality of their environment. As the opening unfolds, it hints at the underlying tension and transformations their lives will undergo as the war looms on the horizon.
Edward Stratemeyer
Boys of The Fort; Or, A Young Captain's Pluck
"Boys of The Fort; Or, A Young Captain's Pluck" by Edward Stratemeyer is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. This story encapsulates the journey and experiences of two young cousins, Joe Moore and Darry Germain, as they travel to Fort Carson in the American West to visit Joe's brother, Captain Moore. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and adventures, including the threat of desperadoes, natural dangers, and encounters with wildlife, all while highlighting the camaraderie of military life. The opening portion of the novel introduces Joe and Darry as they ride through the Rocky Mountains with their guide, the old scout Sam Benson. Their journey is filled with anticipation of reaching the fort, but they are soon caught in a storm, leading them to take refuge in a cave. The atmosphere quickly shifts as Joe overhears a conversation between a gang of outlaws planning to attack the fort, creating tension and danger right from the start. Their adventure escalates as they navigate the wilderness while trying to avoid these menaces and ultimately shift towards thrilling encounters, including bears and other perils as they aim to reach safety and their destination.
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