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United States. Navy -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
John Henry Goldfrap
The Dreadnought Boys on Battle Practice
"The Dreadnought Boys on Battle Practice" by John Henry Goldfrap is a children's adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows two adolescent cousins, Ned Strong and Herc Taylor, who yearn for a life of adventure beyond the monotony of their rural existence. Inspired by a promotional poster of a U.S. Navy battleship, they decide to enlist in the Navy, anticipating a new life filled with excitement and heroism. At the start of the novel, Ned and Herc are found in their small town, captivated by a poster depicting a sailor on a battleship, which sparks their ambition to join the Navy. Their determination leads them to enlist, resulting in a comedic altercation with a local bully, Hank Harkins, and their grandfather's reluctant approval. The opening sets a tone of youthful enthusiasm and naivety as they transition from farm life to the naval adventure they have long dreamed of, unaware of the challenges and camaraderie that await them on their journey in Uncle Sam's Navy.
Frank Gee Patchin
The Battleship Boys at Sea; Or, Two Apprentices in Uncle Sam's Navy
"The Battleship Boys at Sea; Or, Two Apprentices in Uncle Sam's Navy" by Frank Gee Patchin is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows two young boys, Dan Davis and Sam Hickey, who aspire to join the United States Navy as apprentices. Eager to serve their country and experience the adventure of life at sea, they face challenges and excitement as they embark on their journey through the Navy's training program. At the start of the book, Dan and Sam navigate their way through the bustling streets of New York City to find a Navy recruiting station, driven by their dreams of naval service. As they successfully enlist, they're filled with anticipation and a sense of pride. Their initial excitement quickly leads to comic misadventures, including an altercation with rowdy sailors and mishaps involving their new roles as apprentices. The opening chapters lay the foundation for their character development and the camaraderie they will build as they embrace the trials and tribulations of Navy life.
Yates Stirling
A United States Midshipman in Japan
"A United States Midshipman in Japan" by Yates Stirling is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows two young American naval officers, Midshipmen Philip Perry and Sydney Monroe, as they explore the complexities of their journey to Japan against a backdrop of diplomatic tension. The narrative unfolds with action, intrigue, and camaraderie, as these midshipmen navigate personal relationships and international affairs. The opening portion of the book introduces the young midshipmen during their arrival in Yokohama, where they are greeted with ceremony and enthusiasm by the Japanese, highlighting the cultural contrasts between the two nations. During a train journey to Tokyo, Philip overhears a conversation hinting at a conspiracy that could drag both countries into conflict, setting the stage for the unfolding drama. As they reach their destination, the midshipmen face an array of societal and diplomatic challenges, indicating a precarious journey filled with potential conflict, exploration, and interwoven destinies amidst misunderstandings between the nations.
Yates Stirling
A United States Midshipman in the Philippines
"A United States Midshipman in the Philippines" by Lt. Com. Yates Stirling Jr. is a historical adventure narrative likely written in the early 20th century. The book follows the experiences of two young midshipmen, Philip Perry and Sydney Monroe, as they navigate challenges and dangers while serving on a gunboat during a tumultuous time in the Philippines, amid conflicts with Filipino insurgents. The opening of the narrative introduces the setting aboard the "Isla de Negros," a steamer navigating the Pasig River towards Palilo, where the midshipmen are excited about joining their fellow Navy personnel. As they travel, they encounter various characters, including a native girl and her younger brother, who foreshadow the complexities they will face. The story quickly escalates into action when pirates attack the steamer, demonstrating the perilous circumstances that these young officers find themselves in. The initial chapters set the tone for a mix of camaraderie, danger, and moral dilemmas the midshipmen will confront throughout their journey.
Yates Stirling
A United States Midshipman in the South Seas
"A United States Midshipman in the South Seas" by Lt. Com. Yates Stirling Jr. is a historical fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows Midshipmen Phil Perry and Sydney Monroe, along with Boatswain’s Mate “Jack” O’Neil, as they navigate the complexities of a South Sea war involving rival chiefs and foreign interests. Through a blend of adventure and cultural exploration, the midshipmen find themselves embroiled in the political tensions and conflicts of the Kapuan Islands. At the start of the story, the trio arrives in Ukula, the capital of the Kapuan Islands, where a ceremony welcomes the exiled war chief Kataafa back from five years abroad. As the midshipmen observe the dynamics of the ceremony, they become aware of the external and internal political turmoil surrounding the selection of a new king between Kataafa and his rival Panu-Mafili. The narrative introduces the complexities of colonial politics, as influences from Herzovinia and other powers come into play, setting the stage for conflict as Judge Lindsay prepares to announce his decision on the kingship, which could lead to war in the islands.
John Henry Goldfrap
The Dreadnought Boys in Home Waters
"The Dreadnought Boys in Home Waters" by Captain Wilbur Lawton is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows two young naval officers, Ned Strong and Herc Taylor, as they embark on their new command aboard the gunboat Seneca amidst naval war games. The story revolves around their challenges, interactions with fellow crew members, and their encounters with enemies, including Midshipman Kenworth, who has a grudge against them. The opening of the novel introduces readers to Ned and Herc as they travel by train to their new assignment. A conflict arises between Herc and a fellow passenger, Dilworth Rankin, signaling the boys' adventurous spirit and foreshadowing the camaraderie and rivalries they will encounter on their naval journey. As they arrive at Miller's Haven, excitement builds as they prepare to take command of the Seneca and engage in war exercises. The tension escalates when they are introduced to a complex web of interactions with peers and potential adversaries, setting the stage for the high-stakes adventures that await them in the unfolding chapters.
John Henry Goldfrap
The Dreadnought Boys' World Cruise
"The Dreadnought Boys' World Cruise" by Captain Wilbur Lawton is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows two young naval recruits, Ned Strong and Herc Taylor, as they embark on an exhilarating world cruise aboard the battleship "Manhattan". As the narrative unfolds, the boys find themselves in thrilling situations that test their bravery and naval skills, highlighting their loyal friendship and duty to their country. At the start of the tale, Ned and Herc are enjoying their time in San Francisco after a successful mission that involved rescuing a young woman from a runaway horse—an act that earns Ned commendation and unexpected recognition from the British consul. The opening chapters introduce us to their camaraderie, their pride in serving in the navy, and the adventures they anticipate during their journey. However, as they face challenges both at sea and ashore, including a mission to retrieve straggling sailors in the gritty neighborhoods of Chinatown, their skills and resolve are put to the test, setting the stage for further thrilling escapades on their cruise.
John Henry Goldfrap
The Ocean Wireless Boys and the Naval Code
"The Ocean Wireless Boys and the Naval Code" by Captain Wilbur Lawton is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. It follows the escapades of a group of young boys, specifically Jack Ready, Billy Raynor, and their friend Noddy Nipper, as they navigate a series of adventures involving sailing, espionage, and encounters with unscrupulous characters. The narrative introduces themes of bravery, friendship, and the excitement of exploring the unknown, particularly within the context of maritime activities. At the start of the story, the trio is enjoying a sailing getaway on the "Curlew", reflecting on their past adventures and the exciting times ahead. Their peaceful outing is abruptly interrupted by the aggressive intentions of Donald Judson and his father, who attempt to intentionally collide with their boat. Despite their best efforts to steer clear, a collision ensues, resulting in a hole on the "Curlew"'s side and leaving the boys in a precarious situation. As they struggle to keep their yacht afloat, it becomes evident that their easy vacation is about to unfold into yet another thrilling escapade, setting the stage for a series of challenges and dangerous encounters in the chapters to come.
Frank V. (Frank Victor) Martinek
Don Winslow of the Navy
"Don Winslow of the Navy" by Frank V. Martinek is an adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Commander Don Winslow, a skilled officer in the Naval Intelligence Service, as he embarks on a dangerous mission to thwart an international crime ring known as Scorpia, whose sinister plots aim to plunge nations into war. Alongside his loyal companion, Lieutenant "Red" Pennington, and the kidnapped Mercedes Colby, the daughter of a retired Navy Admiral, Winslow must navigate through perilous situations filled with combat, espionage, and uncovering hidden dangers. The opening of the book sets the stage as Winslow, Pennington, and Colby emerge from the chaos of an underwater explosion where they have captured a Scorpia base in Haiti. As they recuperate and assess their surroundings, the trio quickly realizes that danger is imminent—they are not safe yet, as the Scorpion is likely to launch a deadly counterattack. With the threat of more sabotage over their heads and the grim realization of how deep Scorpia's threat runs, the group prepares to defend themselves against a powerful enemy, preparing the reader for an intense adventure filled with suspense and action as they seek to outsmart those that would do them harm.
John Henry Goldfrap
The Dreadnought Boys Aboard a Destroyer
"The Dreadnought Boys Aboard a Destroyer" by John Henry Goldfrap is a naval adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around two courageous young sailors, Ned Strong and Herc Taylor, as they embark on a mission aboard the destroyer "Beale" to safeguard American interests during a South American revolution. The book explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and danger in the face of geopolitical tension. At the start of the novel, the two boys, recently celebrated for their heroics, are approached by a foreign agent in the Brooklyn Navy Yard who attempts to recruit them for espionage against their own country. Instead, the boys reject the agent's proposition, highlighting their strong sense of loyalty and integrity. The narrative quickly transitions to their departure on the destroyer "Beale", setting up an impending voyage that involves danger on the high seas, as well as the tensions of revolution brewing in the Republic of Costaveza. The opening emphasizes not only their spirit and camaraderie but also foreshadows the moral dilemmas and action-filled adventure that lies ahead.
Daniel Henderson
Pirate Princes and Yankee Jacks Setting forth David Forsyth's Adventures in America's Battles on Sea and Desert with the Buccaneer Princes of Barbary, with an Account of a Search under the Sands of the Sahara Desert for the Treasure-filled Tomb of Ancient Kings
"Pirate Princes and Yankee Jacks" by Daniel Henderson is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative centers around the character David Forsyth, an orphan, who embarks on thrilling escapades connected to America's early naval encounters and conflicts with Barbary pirates. The book combines fictional elements with real historical events, aiming to bring to life the challenges faced by early American sailors against piracy and their struggles for freedom. At the start of the story, we are introduced to David Forsyth and his brother Alexander, who are adopted by Dr. Eccleston after losing their parents. They encounter Murad, an enigmatic Egyptian with dubious intentions, who expresses interest in a treasure tomb in the Sahara. When Alexander ships off to sea but is captured by pirates, David's yearning for adventure intensifies. The narrative unfolds to explore themes of brotherhood, heroism, and the fight against slavery, as David ultimately sets out to rescue Alexander while navigating the treacherous waters of piracy. This opening sets the stage for a tale of daring exploits and the historical backdrop of early American naval warfare.
Yates Stirling
A United States Midshipman Afloat
"A United States Midshipman Afloat" by Lt. Com. Yates Stirling Jr. is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on two newly graduated midshipmen, Philip Perry and Sydney Monroe, as they embark on their naval careers aboard the battleship U.S.S. “Connecticut.” The book explores themes of duty, friendship, and rivalry, particularly as the main character, Philip, navigates the complexities of his relationship with his divisional officer, Jules Lazar, whose past conflict with him introduces tension to their interactions. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the bustling Navy-Yard at Brooklyn, where Philip and Sydney excitedly begin their first day aboard the battleship. As tensions begin to surface, particularly concerning their relationship with Lazar, Philip's insecurities about potentially hostile encounters with his superior officer become apparent. A harrowing incident involving a life boat and a near-accident while at sea leads to serious consequences for Philip, intensifying his struggles with obedience and loyalty. Overall, the opening chapters set the stage for an intricate tale of naval life, personal growth, and the challenges of leadership within the military.
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