Bicycle Mystery

The Boxcar Children #15

by Gertrude Chandler Warner, David Cunningham (Illustrator)

Four brave siblings were searching for a home – and found a life of adventure! Join the Boxcar Children as they investigate the mystery of an abandoned farmhouse in this illustrated chapter book series beloved by generations of readers.

The Boxcar Children go on an overnight bicycle trip to Aunt Jane's! But when a rainstorm hits, they are forced to take shelter in an abandoned farmhouse. As the children wait out the storm, a most unusual mystery finds them!

What started as a single story about the Alden Children has delighted readers for generations and sold more than 80 million books worldwide. Featuring timeless adventures, mystery, and suspense, The Boxcar Children® series continues to inspire children to learn, question, imagine, and grow.

Genres: Mystery, Childrens, Fiction, Classics, Middle Grade, Chapter Books, Juvenile

128 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1970

About the author

Gertrude Chandler Warner was born in Putnam, Connecticut, on April 16, 1890, to Edgar and Jane Warner. Her family included a sister, Frances, and a brother, John. From the age of five, she dreamed of becoming an author. She wrote stories for her Grandfather Carpenter, and each Christmas she gave him one of these stories as a gift. Today, Ms. Warner is best remembered as the author of THE BOXCAR CHILDREN MYSTERIES.

As a child, Gertrude enjoyed many of the things that girls enjoy today. She loved furnishing a dollhouse with handmade furniture and she liked to read. Her favorite book was ALICE IN WONDERLAND. Often on Sundays after church, Gertrude enjoyed trips to visit her grandparents' farm. Along the way, she and Frances would stop to pick the wildflowers they both loved. Gertrude's favorite flower was the violet.

Her family was a very musical one. They were able to have a family orchestra, and Gertrude enjoyed playing the cello. Her father had brought her one from New York ---a cello, a bow, a case and an instruction book. All together, he paid $14. Later, as an adult, she began playing the pipe organ and sometimes substituted for the church organist.

Due to ill health, Ms. Warner never finished high school. She left in the middle of her second year and studied with a tutor. Then, in 1918, when teachers were called to serve in World War I, the school board asked her to teach first grade. She had forty children in the morning and forty more in the afternoon. Ms. Warner wrote, "I was asked or begged to take this job because I taught Sunday School. But believe me, day school is nothing like Sunday School, and I sure learned by doing --- I taught in that same room for 32 years, retiring at 60 to have more time to write." Eventually, Ms. Warner attended Yale, where she took several teacher training courses.

Once when she was sick and had to stay home from teaching, she thought up the story about the Boxcar Children. It was inspired by her childhood dreams. As a child, she had spent hours watching the trains go by near her family's home. Sometimes she could look through the window of a caboose and see a small stove, a little table, cracked cups with no saucers, and a tin coffee pot boiling away on the stove. The sight had fascinated her and made her dream about how much fun it would be to live and keep house in a boxcar or caboose. She read the story to her classes and rewrote it many times so the words were easy to understand. Some of her pupils spoke other languages at home and were just learning English. THE BOXCAR CHILDREN gave them a fun story that was easy to read.

Ms. Warner once wrote for her fans, "Perhaps you know that the original BOXCAR CHILDREN. . . raised a storm of protest from librarians who thought the children were having too good a time without any parental control! That is exactly why children like it! Most of my own childhood exploits, such as living in a freight car, received very little cooperation from my parents."

Though the story of THE BOXCAR CHILDREN went through some changes after it was first written, the version that we are familiar with today was originally published in 1942 by Scott Foresman. Today, Albert Whitman & Company publishes this first classic story as well as the next eighteen Alden children adventures that were written by Ms. Warner.

Gertrude Chandler Warner died in 1979 at the age of 89 after a full life as a teacher, author, and volunteer for the American Red Cross and other charitable organizations. After her death, Albert Whitman & Company continued to receive mail from children across the country asking for more adventures about Henry, Jessie, Violet and Benny Alden. In 1991, Albert Whitman added to THE BOXCAR CHILDREN MYSTERIES so that today's children can enjoy many more adventures about this independent and caring group of children.

Books about Gertrude: https://www.goodreads.com/characters/...

Reviews

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this is the last of the original Boxcar Children books we are getting from the library. (After this, we are into ghostwriter territory.) It definitely shows its age, though it's not as bad as some of these original GCW-penned stories. The four Alden children decide to visit Aunt Jane on her farm but, rather than take the station wagon, Grandfather suggests the kids ride their bicycles there, instead. The "adventures" the children have chiefly involve helping overwhelmed strangers with their chores... they help a housewife prepare the house for a dinner to impress her husband's boss (and, yes, of course Jessie and Violet help in the kitchen and Henry and Benny do the yard work--and, yes, no one thinks twice about going to a stranger's home) and later helping a farmer harvest some vegetables. They also spend a stormy night in a derelict house and soothe any concerns of trespassing because they assume the owner must not care about the house at all and wouldn't begrudge them a stay there. All this feels so impossible for today's children and I really wonder how many kids even in the 60s would have been allowed to do this, though I suppose perhaps one saving grace here is that Henry is in college so he's probably actually an adult by now and Jessie and Violet are in high school, so it's not like a bunch of little kids are going around the countryside on their own. The main mystery involves a pedigree dog that shows up at the derelict house and follows them to Aunt Jane's farm. It is so nice and well-behaved, it must belong to someone, but how will they find out who!? It was nice having a dog around again (Watch is always staying home with Grandfather these days). Do be aware children sensitive to animal peril might worry about dogs being stolen as that is a thread here, though it turns out the dog simply got lost and is reunited with his people at the end

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish we still had a society where four kids could spend a week bicycling to their aunt's house safely. :P

[Seth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read just about every one of these I could get my hands on when I was a child. In my later teens, I picked up the series again to see what it was that I liked so much about the series. The answer: realistic characters, believable storyline, and a kind of summer escapist's daydream into some things that I may never do or experience as much as the boxcar children did. The characters in particular were well crafted. The villains always had a reason for their crime that seemed reasonable from their point of view (unlike the standard evil villain cliches seen in many childrens' mysteries). The Boxcar Children themselves appeared kind at heart yet at the same time weren't snobs either. I've definitely outgrown the series in terms of reading ability and criticism, but that doesn't stop me from recognizing good writing when I see it (I don't believe that Gertrude Chandler Warner actually wrote all of these books, but whoever continued in her stead was a good writer and emulator). This a great series for boys and girls alike still in grade school--books that are wholesome, yet interesting and enjoyable as well.

[Jessica Woodring · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars from Austen even though she loved it “so, so, soooo much.” She took away a star for the “fire part” because it was scary.

Also, I thought it was very clever of Grandfather to find a way to get rid of his grandkids for an even longer period of time AND not have to drive them anywhere himself by having them just ride their bikes to Aunt Jane’s house. (Austen wanted me to say that I added this part)

[Kimberly Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars from my daughter.
This was not my favorite I'd give it 4.

[L.M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Only decreased a star because it involves a lost dog, which makes me queasy. Cute story overall.

[Jeffery Worrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this book and all of the cool things that happened with the dog.

[Jessie]

In between books while I was at the cabin I decided to read a box car children book for old time's sake. I don't think I read this specific one as a kid, but I really enjoyed the ones I did read.

[Elevetha · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Boxcar Children = most read series between the ages of 6 and 9 for me. I think of these fondly. Every child should read this series.

[Savani · Rating 3 out of 5]

***WARNING: POSSIBLE SPOILERS***
In *Bicycle Mystery*, the fifteenth installment of *The Boxcar Children* series, the four Alden children—Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny—embark on another wholesome adventure that blends the charm of rural life with a bit of mystery. Set against the backdrop of a simple biking trip to their Aunt Jane’s farm, the story once again showcases the Aldens’ resourcefulness, kindness, and problem-solving skills.

As the children begin their journey, they quickly find themselves involved in helping others, a trait fans of the series will recognize and appreciate. Their willingness to lend a hand, whether it’s helping Mrs. Randall with dinner and yard work or assisting at a vegetable stand, highlights their kindheartedness and teamwork.

The story takes a turn when the children encounter a lost dog, who they name Shadow, and make it their mission to reunite him with his owners. Along the way, they gather clues and meet various townspeople, making for a leisurely-paced but engaging mystery that young readers will enjoy following. The highlight comes when Shadow is revealed to be Smoky, a dog belonging to Mrs. Randall, whom the children had helped earlier in the story. The reunion is sweet, and the children’s commitment to solving the mystery of Shadow’s owners pays off.

True to the series, the adventure is lighthearted with mild suspense. There’s a subplot involving a suspicious couple who attempt to buy Shadow and later are revealed to be involved in dog thefts, adding just the right amount of tension for younger readers. The setting of the dog show, where Smoky earns the nickname “Bicycle Dog,” provides a heartwarming and satisfying conclusion.

While the book doesn’t offer a complex plot, it sticks to the reliable formula of previous *Boxcar Children* books: the Aldens solve a puzzle, make new friends, and show a remarkable sense of independence. The illustrations by David Cunningham complement the narrative well, offering engaging visuals for young readers.

Overall, *Bicycle Mystery* is a delightful, easy-to-read adventure perfect for children who enjoy simple mysteries and tales of friendship. It’s another solid entry in *The Boxcar Children* series, full of charm and wholesome values.

[JP · Rating 5 out of 5]

Only a few weeks left in the summer, so the Boxcar Children are going on (another) adventure closer to home! This time, they're going to ride their bikes to Aunt Jane's and of course find a several mysteries (and a dog!) along the way. It's really quite strange how close together everything is. They keep going by previous locations, such as Second Landing and Aunt Jane's. New England I guess?

It's a cute story and, given their current ages, seems entirely appropriate. Although just how old is Benny supposed to be to plan to ride up to 50 miles a day several days in a row? I don't know if it's something that would really make sense where we live in the midwest, but everything in New England is a bit more compact.

Random weird thoughts:

"No, just for today I serve lunch for you. Look in there."

The foreign man who takes a liking to the Aldens and won't take food from them. And this isn't the only time. There are entirely too many points making a big deal about 'your money is no good here' / who's going to pay / how much for variou things.

Also, this amused me greatly:
"Good," the policeman said. "We found them with two stolen poodles and a Scottie that didn't belong to them. That man and woman will go back where they came from, but they will pay a great big fine!"

"They deserve it!" Benny said. "I hope they won't do it again."

"They won't," promised the man. He laughed. "They have policemen on the West Coast, too, you know."


Perhaps I'm projecting, but man that makes them all sound snooty about the West Coasters. Old Money New Englanders looking down on New Money Californians?

Probably just me. :)

And this:

"I'm sorry myself," said Grandfather. "But there was a reason. And don't forget, Ben, somebody always has to come in second."

And this was something Benny Alden never forgot.

So long as they have money or you can buy them, right? I'm not really being fair, Grandfather does seem to generally be a good person. He just also tends to solve all of his problems with money.

I'm curious if that sticks for Benny though.

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The children go to visit Aunt Jane, but instead of going in the car, they are riding their bikes. Grandfather stays home with the dog. While heading towards a motel to spend the night, they get caught in a downpour, and end up sleeping in an abandoned house. Later they are awakened by a wet dog whining outside and trying to get in through a broken window. Of course they rescue him and name him Shadow. When they set off again the next day, he insists on following them. Anywhere they can, they ask about his owner, but have no luck. At one town, they stop and help the store owner, and later help a man at a vegetable stand They also meet two strangers who want to buy Shadow from them, but they resist. When they reach the motel, the manager allows them to sneak Shadow in as long as he is quiet. So when he starts barking instead of just whining, they get up and discover there is a fire in the dining room. They alert the owner, who is very grateful. After a brief visit at Jane's ranch, they head home, with Shadow still following. They meet the two strangers again, who claim they stole the dog and want to take him; but they are rescued when another driver stops and intervenes. When they reach the store where they helped, the dog runs to a house, which turns out to be where he belongs. Now they have to solve another mystery - how did Shadow get from the parking lot where he ran away, to the abandoned house? They arrive home, but later go back to Shadow's town to visit a dog show, where they learn more about Shadow and finally solve the last puzzle.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Aldens decide to go on a trip to visit a relative by bicycle. Along the way they meet a dog. There’s no sign of who he belongs to or where he came from, but he’s good company along the way. They work together (and with all the friendly people they meet on their trip) to solve the mystery of where he came from and get him back to his owners.

I read this one with one of the book clubs in my fourth grade classroom. This was my lowest group and I think they really enjoyed this book. I picked a boxcar children mystery because there are SO MANY of them that I figured if they like this one, it opens the door to tons more books for them. It was a simple but nice story. A bit outdated of course, but overall it was enjoyable for me and the kids.

[Octavia Cade · Rating 2 out of 5]

Grandfather boots the kids out of the house for another trip, sending them on a cycling holiday to their aunt's house. On the way they find a lost dog, and the rest of the trip is dedicated to finding the dog's owner and returning him to them. Of course they succeed, but I enjoyed that for once - criminal lurkings in the background aside - in this case the dog really was lost, which is a very mild mystery but also an understandable one. Far more mysterious is four children volunteering to do a stranger's housework, which I suspect is meant to come across as kindness and goodwill to all, but which skirts the line of mildly disturbing. (Next stop Stepford, perhaps?)

[Adam Carman · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Boxcar Children is an underrated series of books. The original author was a schoolteacher interested in getting children to read by writing books where kids were the main characters. This volume serves as a kind of flashback episode of the original series as the Aldens bike to their aunt's house and pass by many of the places they visited in previous books. The overall point is that as the Aldens put themselves at the service of the various people they meet, they build confidence in them so that when they are falsely accused of stealing a dog, the people they've helped step into defend them. It's a very feel-good story.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

So this is our third Boxcar children audiobook and what makes this one great is the narrator. She is very pleasant to listen to and does all the different voices really well. A surprising thing on this one was the sound effects throughout-really enjoyed that addition.

The story line is a cute one, simple but interesting. You find yourself smiling, laughing, and trying to figure out the mystery right along with the Aldens.

[Kara Kuehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great, as always though not as exciting as some others.

I really like how helpful the Aldens are! They’re selfless and willing to work hard - something that is seemingly lost in society today.

Things to be aware of in “Bicycle Mystery”

Additional Notes:
- Mentions of stealing dogs
- A mention of “a big giant of a man”
- Mentions of ghosts, but, “they all laughed, for they knew there were no ghosts.”

[Stephen]

The Aldens do a little family visit/bike touring and meet, as usual, a mystery: a strange dog, a mysteriously sad woman, and a creepy man following them in a car. I don't know if I read this one when I was a kid (probably, I had most of them), but I enjoyed revisiting these old friends. Read this one because it had bicycles in it.

[Joseph D. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Aldens cannot even take a bike journey without ​finding adventure. This was a good read for the reading level. But this one was not in my top 10. It was a fun adventure and there was plenty of action to keep the reader involved. It would be a good choice to pick up.

Joseph McKnight
http://www.josephmcknight.com

[Trisha Arrowsmith · Rating 4 out of 5]

The lost dog happens to be a show dog. The kids manage to find a dog show to see if they can get any information on the dog. There are people who are wanting the dog because of how rare it is and they can sell for a lot of money. The kids find the owner, a boy and the dog's trainer, his uncle. A bike ride sounds fun. Only if people in my family were old enough to do a trip on it.

[Maximilian Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book wasn't that good because it had several mysteries but the conclusions were all mixed up. I liked the part when the Alden's met Smoky the Skye terrier. I think the dog was very cute. (according to google)

[Wesley and Fernie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think that the general concept behind this story relies more on the fact that the kids are on a bicycling trip than the actual mystery itself. It really helps with getting engaged with the setting and puts you in that kind of traveling mindset.

[Monica · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was a little boring. I think my daughter is growing out of this series... Maybe it's mostly for 1st graders and by the time yiu get to 2nd grade it just drags? Dunno... maybe it was just this book.

[Chloe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who is your favorite character and why?
Benny because he is funny and hungry a lot.
What surprised you most?
About the dog how it was rare.
Would you change the ending? Why/why not?
I wouldn't change the ending because I like how they go to the dog show.

[Cherish Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

(4☆ Would recommend)
I loved these books as a kid & I'm really enjoying reading through the series again. This was a good mystery. I liked how persistent they were with finding the dog's owner. I enjoyed how everything worked out in the end & how everything was explained.

[AllyP Reads Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book to listen to while on the elliptical. It must have been so nice to be a kid that was actually allowed to venture from one's home without their parent getting arrested for it. Not sure about renting a hotel room though. That seemed strange.

[Heidi Eastman Turner · Rating 3 out of 5]

This checked a box. It had a bike in it. I have a 9 year old who's obsessed with bikes and we were going on a short trip and so this filled the need. You could tell it was old but it had a bike and a little bit of an adventure, it kept him happy.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun adventure with the Alden children. I really like how they age throughout the series, so we get to see some character development. I also learn something about the world around me each book. This time I learned about dog breeds!

[Abby · Rating 3 out of 5]

The kids ride their bikes to their Aunt Jane's house then stay for like 10 minutes. Along the way, they are good samaratins to all the plebs and get very offended when the bad guys insinuate that they might have stolen a dog. 2.5/5

[Megan Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was fun to reread a boxcar children book to my students. I had forgotten how fun they are!