The Motor Boys After a Fortune; or, The Hut on Snake Island

"The Motor Boys After a Fortune; or, The Hut on Snake Island" by Clarence Young is a novel written in the early 20th century. This adventure story follows a group of young characters, particularly three boys named Jerry, Ned, and Bob, as they set off on an expedition to find a rumored deposit of radium on Snake Island, located in the Grand Canyon of the Colorado. Their journey is fraught with excitement, as they not only face the natural challenges of navigating the river but also contend with a bully named Noddy Nixon, who desires to thwart their plans. The opening of the story introduces the three boys at Ned Slade's house, where they engage in a conversation with Professor Uriah Snodgrass, who enlightens them about the potential existence of valuable radium on Snake Island. Their initial discussion is abruptly interrupted by the arrival of Andy Rush, who brings alarming news of a flood caused by a broken dam. This event sets the scene for the boys' heroic rescue of Noddy Nixon, bringing an element of urgency to their adventures. As they discuss the possibility of seeking out the radium, we catch a glimpse of Noddy's antagonistic nature as he begins to plot against them, hinting at the rivalry that will evolve as the story progresses. This introductory section effectively establishes the boys' camaraderie, the impending dangers of their adventure, and the central tension with Noddy, setting the stage for the thrilling escapades ahead.