The Hydrofoil Mystery facts for kids
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| Author | Eric Walters |
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| Country | Canada |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Young adult novel |
| Publisher | Viking Press |
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Publication date
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1999 |
| Media type | Print (Hardback & Paperback) |
| Pages | 224 pp |
| ISBN | 978-0-670-88186-4 |
| OCLC | 39868657 |
The Hydrofoil Mystery is an exciting adventure novel written in 1999 by Canadian author Eric Walters. It tells the story of Billy McCracken, a teenage boy who expects a boring summer. His mother arranges for him to work with the famous inventor of the telephone, Alexander Graham Bell. But with German U-boats threatening the coast, Billy's summer turns into a thrilling adventure involving Bell's amazing new invention, the hydrofoil.
Contents
What is The Hydrofoil Mystery About?
This book follows Billy McCracken during the summer of 1917. He is sent to work with Alexander Graham Bell, hoping for a quiet time. Instead, he finds himself in the middle of a secret mission. German U-boats, which are submarines, are causing trouble near the coast. Billy and Bell must work together to use Bell's new hydrofoil to help protect the area.
Meet the Characters
- Billy McCracken: A teenage boy who thought his summer would be dull. He quickly learns that working with a genius like Bell is anything but boring.
- Alexander Graham Bell: The famous inventor known for the telephone. In this story, he is working on a new type of boat called a hydrofoil.
- German U-boats: These are enemy submarines from Germany. They are a big threat during the time the story takes place.
The Amazing Hydrofoil
A hydrofoil is a special kind of boat that can lift itself out of the water. It uses wing-like structures called foils under its hull. As the boat speeds up, these foils create lift, just like an airplane wing. This lifts the main part of the boat out of the water.
How a Hydrofoil Works
When a hydrofoil boat moves fast enough, its hull lifts above the water's surface. This reduces drag, which is the resistance from the water. With less drag, the boat can go much faster and use less fuel. Alexander Graham Bell was a real inventor who worked on hydrofoils during World War I.
Setting the Scene: World War I
The story takes place during the first World War, also known as World War I. This was a huge global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918. Many countries around the world were involved in fighting.
Canada's Role in the War
Even though the book is fiction, it helps us learn about real history. Canada played an important part in World War I. Many brave Canadians served overseas. The war affected life back home in Canada too. This book helps readers understand what it might have been like during that time.
Alexander Graham Bell's Contributions
Alexander Graham Bell was not just an inventor of the telephone. He was always curious and worked on many different projects. During World War I, he used his scientific skills to help his country. His work on hydrofoils was one way he tried to contribute to the war effort.
Why Read This Book?
The Hydrofoil Mystery is a great book for young readers. It combines adventure and history in an exciting way. Teachers in Ontario, Canada often use it in their classrooms. It's a fun way to learn about Canadian history and the science behind inventions like the hydrofoil.
