Subject
World War, 1914-1918 -- Naval operations -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
A Watch-dog of the North Sea: A Naval Story of the Great War
"A Watch-dog of the North Sea: A Naval Story of the Great War" by Percy F. Westerman is a naval fiction novel likely written during the early 20th century amidst World War I. The book centers on the adventures of the crew aboard H.M.S. "Pompey," an armoured cruiser, particularly focusing on characters like Assistant Paymaster Eric Greenwood and his friend Ronald Tressidar, while combining action, camaraderie, and the harsh realities of war at sea. The opening portion of the story introduces Eric Greenwood as he completes his duties aboard the cruiser and looks forward to receiving letters from home. As he interacts with fellow officers, the atmosphere aboard the ship is interrupted when a torpedo narrowly misses them, revealing the constant threat of enemy submarines. The narrative then shifts to the perspective of a new stoker, James Jorkler, whose ulterior motives foreshadow danger, hinting at a conspiracy against the vessel and its crew. This sets the stage for tension and intrigue as Greenwood's father, Mr. Greenwood, uncovers significant information regarding a secret petrol depot that could pose serious implications for the war effort. The stage is thus set for action-packed developments ahead.
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
With Beatty off Jutland: A Romance of the Great Sea Fight
"With Beatty off Jutland: A Romance of the Great Sea Fight" by Percy F. Westerman is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. This work immerses readers in the naval battles of World War I, focusing on the crew of the British destroyer H.M.S. "Calder," particularly Acting Sub-lieutenant Jack Sefton as they undertake risky submarine operations in the North Sea. Themes of courage, camaraderie, and the brutal realities of warfare are prominent throughout the narrative. The opening of the narrative introduces the cold, tense atmosphere aboard H.M.S. "Calder." As she and her crew engage in a high-stakes mission to locate a crucial undersea cable, Sub-lieutenant Sefton and his fellow officers navigate their responsibilities while maintaining a light-hearted camaraderie. The piece paints a picture of the daily life aboard the destroyer, filled with both mundane duties and the constant threat of enemy engagement. Tension builds as they finally hook the cable they’re after, leading into the promise of further action and conflict on the horizon. The stage is set for a thrilling tale of naval warfare and adventure on the open sea.
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
The Sea-girt Fortress: A Story of Heligoland
"The Sea-girt Fortress: A Story of Heligoland" by Percy F. Westerman is an adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows two young sailors, Sub-Lieutenant Jack Hamerton and his American friend Oswald Detroit, as they embark on a cruise to Kiel on their yacht, the "Diomeda". However, their voyage takes an unexpected turn when they accidentally enter a prohibited naval area near the fortified island of Heligoland, leading to their arrest by German authorities on suspicion of espionage. The opening of the story introduces readers to the main characters aboard their yacht, setting the stage for their adventure. As they navigate foggy waters, they rescue a sailor who has fallen overboard from a German destroyer, illustrating their bravery and quick thinking. However, their luck quickly changes as they inadvertently find themselves tangled in a web of international intrigue when they are arrested by German naval officers. The narrative hints at the escalating tension of their predicament, with a multitude of potential consequences and encounters with naval warfare that lie ahead.
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
The Submarine Hunters: A Story of the Naval Patrol Work in the Great War
"The Submarine Hunters: A Story of Naval Patrol Work in the Great War" by Percy F. Westerman is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative revolves around two young friends, Ross Trefusis and Vernon Haye, who become embroiled in naval patrol work during World War I. Set against the backdrop of the war, the story engages the readers with themes of adventure, espionage, and the challenges faced by the protagonists as they uncover a plot involving German spies and submarines. At the start of the novel, we meet the two boys who have mistakenly grounded their sailing boat on St. Mena's Island. While exploring the island, they become suspicious of a stranger who appears to be having a secret meeting in the ruins of an old chapel. As the boys attempt to eavesdrop, they overhear a conversation in German that suggests espionage activities and a plot related to submarine operations. Their investigation leads to their capture by a pair of German spies, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure on the high seas as they are taken aboard a German submarine. The opening portion combines elements of friendship, intrigue, and impending danger, immersing the reader in an engaging tale of bravery amidst the perils of war.
Halsey Davidson
Navy boys to the rescue : $b or, Answering the wireless call for help
"Navy Boys to the Rescue: Answering the Wireless Call for Help" by Halsey Davidson is a fictional adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a group of young sailors from the United States Navy, known as the Navy Boys, as they encounter various challenges and enemies during World War I while on patrol duty. The main characters include Phil Morgan, also known as Whistler, and his friends Alfred Torrance, Michael Donahue, and Ikey Rosenmeyer, as they navigate their adventures on the destroyer "Colodia". The opening of the story introduces the Navy Boys on shore leave in England, enjoying their time away from the ship and engaging in lively banter. However, their peaceful outing is interrupted when they come across a British sailor in a precarious situation with an American lad, George Belding, who is being held against his will by the intoxicated sailor. The Navy Boys quickly decide to intervene and attempt to rescue Belding, setting the stage for the excitement and action that follows. The narrative hints at an overarching theme of camaraderie and bravery that the boys will need to display as they face further trials, particularly with the arrival of a German Zeppelin overhead.
Clair W. (Clair Wallace) Hayes
The Boy Allies with Uncle Sam's Cruisers
"The Boy Allies with Uncle Sam's Cruisers" by Clair W. Hayes is a historical adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century, during the time of World War I. The story follows two young protagonists, Jack Templeton and Frank Chadwick, who find themselves caught up in naval missions as they embark on various daring exploits, guided by the British nobleman Lord Hastings, involving British and American efforts against German forces at sea. The opening portion of the book introduces Jack and Frank in London right before they set sail on a new mission, with Jack returning from a previous naval adventure. They learn about the imminent engagement of American troops in the European theater and express their eagerness to support the efforts against Germany. The narrative swiftly builds tension by showcasing Jack’s experience aboard a British destroyer and the dangers faced when dealing with German mines, illustrating themes of bravery, camaraderie, and youthful daring as they prepare for the unfolding conflict. The chapter sets a vivid atmosphere of anticipation and excitement, beckoning readers into a world of military excitement and youthful heroism.
Clair W. (Clair Wallace) Hayes
The Boy Allies under Two Flags
"The Boy Allies under Two Flags" by Clair W. Hayes is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story focuses on the adventures of two young boys, Jack Templeton and Frank Chadwick, who are navigating the tumultuous waters of World War I while serving on the British scout cruiser, H.M.S. Sylph. As they face enemy attacks and participate in naval battles, the boys find themselves deeply entrenched in the war’s excitement and dangers. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to H.M.S. Sylph and its commander, Lord Hastings, as they engage in battle against German cruisers in the Mediterranean Sea. The opening chapters depict a fierce naval skirmish, showcasing the bravery and quick-thinking of Jack and Frank as they work alongside the crew during the conflict. After successfully wounding the enemy, the Sylph is forced to turn back upon realizing their adversaries are too formidable. This encounter sets the scene for character development, highlighting the boys' camaraderie and shared ambition for action and adventure, while also introducing the historical context of the naval battles of World War I that will shape their journey ahead.
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
The Mystery Ship: A Story of the 'Q' Ships During the Great War
"The Mystery Ship: A Story of the 'Q' Ships During the Great War" by Percy F. Westerman is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows the experiences of sub-lieutenants Kenneth Meredith and Jock McIntosh, who serve aboard a British motor launch during World War I, particularly focusing on the dire encounters of naval warfare involving Q ships and submarines. The book delves into the challenges and dangers faced by naval officers as they patrol the foggy Northern Seas while seeking out enemy vessels such as U-boats. The opening of the novel sets the scene aboard H.M. Motor Launch 1071, where sub-lieutenant Kenneth Meredith is interrupted while writing a letter home. Shortly after, he interacts with his fellow officer, McIntosh, and they discuss the whereabouts of their absent colleague, Wakefield. As the two prepare for a night patrol amidst thickening fog, they express their frustrations and hopes of encountering enemy submarines, revealing their personalities and camaraderie. The narrative portrays the realities of maritime patrol work during wartime, emphasizing the blend of uncertainty and duty that governs their lives. This engaging beginning lays the groundwork for a tense exploration of naval engagements and the intricacies of wartime camaraderie.
Sherman Crockett
Two American Boys with the Dardanelles Battle Fleet
"Two American Boys with the Dardanelles Battle Fleet" by Major Sherman Crockett is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows two young American cousins, Amos Turner and Jack Maxfield, as they embark on a perilous journey through the Dardanelles during World War I, seeking to find Amos's missing brother, Frank, who is an aviator serving with the Allies. The opening of the novel introduces the boys aboard a Greek powerboat as they navigate the tumultuous waters of the Ægean Sea. They are well aware of the historical significance of their location, laden with tales of ancient conflicts and contemporary battles between Allied forces and the Turks. As they approach their destination, the boys encounter suspicions about the crew's intentions, leading them to uncover that they are transporting ammunition and weapons to the Turks, prompting plans for a daring intervention. This sets the stage for their adventure, steeped in danger and the urgency of their quest.
Percy F. (Percy Francis) Westerman
Rounding up the Raider: A Naval Story of the Great War
"Rounding up the Raider: A Naval Story of the Great War" by Percy F. Westerman is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around three young naval officers—Frank Denbigh, Charlie Stirling, and Pat O'Hara—who find themselves aboard the Japanese liner "Nichi Maru" while returning to England after serving in a remote area affected by warfare. Their journey takes a thrilling turn when the ship is captured by a disguised German raider, the "Pelikan", prompting an intense struggle for survival and escape. The opening of the story sets a vivid scene on the "Nichi Maru" as Denbigh and his friends express excitement about returning to England, briefly enjoying the routine of their voyage. However, their casual conversation shifts to tension as they spot a mysterious vessel in the distance, foreshadowing impending danger. When the German raider reveals itself and takes control of the liner, the officers quickly change into their naval uniforms, signaling their readiness to face adversity. The narrative quickly establishes the stakes involved, as the three chums are marked as prisoners by the German forces, leading to an uncertain fate aboard the captured ship.
Clair W. (Clair Wallace) Hayes
The Boy Allies in the Baltic; Or, Through Fields of Ice to Aid the Czar
"The Boy Allies in the Baltic; Or, Through Fields of Ice to Aid the Czar" by Ensign Robert L. Drake is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The story features young British officers, Jack Templeton and Frank Chadwick, who are involved in dangerous espionage missions during World War I, specifically focusing on their strategic actions in the Baltic Sea against German forces. The plot illuminates their encounters with various obstacles, including enemy forces and treachery, as they seek to gather intelligence and assist the Russian Czar. The opening of the book introduces readers to the D-17 submarine and its crew led by Lord Hastings, setting the stage for a perilous mission targeting the fortified German base of Heligoland. As the D-17 navigates treacherous waters, Jack and Frank, veterans of previous adventures, engage in strategic discussions and prepare for the challenges ahead. Tension builds as they devise plans to infiltrate enemy territory while dealing with potential threats from German naval strength. This initial chapter hooks readers into the fast-paced, action-driven narrative that promises excitement and intrigue throughout their mission.
Kenneth Ward
The Boy Volunteers with the Submarine Fleet
"The Boy Volunteers with the Submarine Fleet" by Kenneth Ward is a fictional adventure novel likely written in the early 20th century, around the time of World War I. The story centers on two young American boys, Ralph and Alfred, who find themselves embroiled in the tumultuous events of the Great War while traveling in Europe. The narrative is poised to explore their thrilling experiences, particularly as they take on dangerous missions involving submarines amidst the backdrop of naval warfare. At the start of the book, Ralph and Alfred are aboard a ship that comes under attack from enemy submarines, creating a palpable sense of tension and urgency. They witness the crew's frantic attempts to evade torpedoes and are subsequently drawn into the chaos, showing their quick wit and bravery. Their past experiences in various military roles have prepared them to assist during the crisis. As the ship faces the prospect of sinking, the boys' character and resourcefulness are highlighted, setting the stage for their ensuing adventures, including encounters with submarines and their captors.
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