What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hardy Boys #48
The Hardy Boys: The Arctic Patrol Mystery
Private investigator Fenton Hardy enlists the aid of his teenage detective sons in a search for a missing man being sought by an insurance company. All leads to the sailor's whereabouts have petered out and the boys fly to Iceland, the man's native land, hoping to find a new clue. From the moment Frank and Joe arrive in Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland, they are in constant danger. In the spine-chilling pursuit that follows, Frank and Joe uncover a diabolical espionage plot that threatens the life of a U.S. astronaut and NASA'S moon project.
Paperback
Published January 1, 1979
81 people are currently reading
778 people want to read
About the author
Franklin W. Dixon
734 books991 followersFranklin W. Dixon is the pen name used by a variety of different authors who were part of a team that wrote The Hardy Boys novels for the Stratemeyer Syndicate (now owned by Simon & Schuster). Dixon was also the writer attributed for the Ted Scott Flying Stories series, published by Grosset & Dunlap.
Canadian author Leslie McFarlane is believed to have written the first sixteen Hardy Boys books, but worked to a detailed plot and character outline for each story. The outlines are believed to have originated with Edward Stratemeyer, with later books outlined by his daughters Edna C. Squier and Harriet Stratemeyer Adams. Edward and Harriet also edited all books in the series through the mid-1960s. Other writers of the original books include MacFarlane's wife Amy, John Button, Andrew E. Svenson, and Adams herself; most of the outlines were done by Adams and Svenson. A number of other writers and editors were recruited to revise the outlines and update the texts in line with a more modern sensibility, starting in the late 1950s.
The principal author for the Ted Scott books was John W. Duffield.
Canadian author Leslie McFarlane is believed to have written the first sixteen Hardy Boys books, but worked to a detailed plot and character outline for each story. The outlines are believed to have originated with Edward Stratemeyer, with later books outlined by his daughters Edna C. Squier and Harriet Stratemeyer Adams. Edward and Harriet also edited all books in the series through the mid-1960s. Other writers of the original books include MacFarlane's wife Amy, John Button, Andrew E. Svenson, and Adams herself; most of the outlines were done by Adams and Svenson. A number of other writers and editors were recruited to revise the outlines and update the texts in line with a more modern sensibility, starting in the late 1950s.
The principal author for the Ted Scott books was John W. Duffield.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
October 9, 2017
I'm short on time yet again, so, I'll just say: This was yet another fun episode in this series.
Read
June 18, 2019When you just need a quick nostalgia read ❤️
September 8, 2021
“How would you boys like to fly to Iceland?” Fenton Hardy asked his two sons, Frank and Joe.
Reviewer’s Note: This, in my opinion, has to be one of the all time best Hardy Boys story openers.
“Iceland? Up near the Arctic Circle?” Joe asks.
Mr. Hardy confirmed that this was correct with a nod. This caused the brothers to look to one another, then back at their famous detective father, both saying the same thing, in near unison,
“Of course, dad!”
Fenton was about to explain the reason for the trip when his enthusiastic sons started in with the questions,
“What’s the pitch? Another mystery…”
The senior Hardy eased back into his high-backed swivel chair, considering how to sum things up for his sons. Finally, he leveled a stare towards both of them saying,
“As mysteries go, it’s mild compared with some of the others you’ve handled,” he paused, then added, “But then again, it might prove to be quite dangerous…”
“In what way might it be dangerous?” Frank asked.
Fenton smiled, “Well, let’s start with a basic explanation of the job itself. You are to find a man named Rex Hallbjornsson, an Icelander that a certain insurance company wishes to pay a sum of fifty thousand dollars to.”
Frank grinned, “That’s not hard to take, who left him this tidy little fortune?”
“A person whose life he saved at sea,” Mr. Hardy replied matter-of-factly. He then went on to explain that Hallbjornsson’s last known address was a London steamship company and that this ship was later sunk off the coast of France when it collided with a drifting mine. The man was thought lost, but then there were reports that he was staying with a family in Brittany, but by the time European detectives looked into it, Hallbjornsson was long gone.
“That’s not much to go on,” Joe mused, still mesmerized by the incredible tale.
“There’s more,” Fenton Hardy added, “He did leave a clue behind with the family in Brittany, it was just a scrap of paper bearing one word, ‘Island.’”
“Just Island?” Frank asked, “A one word clue?”
Mr. Hardy looked to his son with a small smile, “Yes, but it’s a rather important word,” he explained. “Island is the Icelandic word for Iceland. This causes me to believe that the clue means that Hallbjornsson, now in his sixties, might be returning to his native land.”
The boys sat there in silence, considering the enormity of their mission when Mr. Hardy added,
“Your job is to track him down. There’s a direct flight from New York to Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland.”
“And the danger part, dad?” Joe asked, not forgetting what his father mentioned earlier.
That’s when Mr. Hardy left the room and returned with a small device that looked like a transistor radio.
“What’s that?” Frank asked.
“It’s the latest in decoders,” Mr. Hardy replied, “It works on a decibel principle.”
He then explained that the high peaks of sound in any conversation were the keys to the code, and once these are established, the message can be decoded by using this special book.”
He then handed Frank a small black codebook and a miniature tape recorder,
“The recorder can be attached to a telephone or radio,” he concluded.
The elder Hardy then went over the principles of the decibel machine, and when they were finished the season detective said,
“Boys, you must guard this machine and code book carefully, it’s vital to another case I’m currently handling.”
“Connected with Iceland?” Joe asked.
“Very possibly,” his father replied, “And now that you have the device, I want you to leave on tonight’s Loftleider flight to Reykjavik.”
“This must be a very important device,” Frank mused as he held the decoder.
“Very important indeed,” Mr. Hardy replied, “It cannot fall into the wrong hands,” he added gravely.
“Thus, the danger,” the boys said at the same time.
Okay, what a beginning! A mission to Iceland, along with top secret decoder technology...I couldn’t wait to read on. And by the end I was thrilled with all the intrigue and adventure of this story, a few of my favorites being:
The mysterious and very knowledgeable flight attendant Steina, a missing astronaut, the ghost people of Iceland who wear brightly colored clothing, a daring light craft landing on the knife edged Vatnajokull Glacier, potential peril averted by a small object no larger than a nickel, the amazing Icelandic ponies, a good natured ship captain who saved the life of one of the Hardy boys, and a gang’s ingeniously hidden radio sending and receiving spy station.
It was one amazing moment after another!
Reviewer’s Note: This, in my opinion, has to be one of the all time best Hardy Boys story openers.
“Iceland? Up near the Arctic Circle?” Joe asks.
Mr. Hardy confirmed that this was correct with a nod. This caused the brothers to look to one another, then back at their famous detective father, both saying the same thing, in near unison,
“Of course, dad!”
Fenton was about to explain the reason for the trip when his enthusiastic sons started in with the questions,
“What’s the pitch? Another mystery…”
The senior Hardy eased back into his high-backed swivel chair, considering how to sum things up for his sons. Finally, he leveled a stare towards both of them saying,
“As mysteries go, it’s mild compared with some of the others you’ve handled,” he paused, then added, “But then again, it might prove to be quite dangerous…”
“In what way might it be dangerous?” Frank asked.
Fenton smiled, “Well, let’s start with a basic explanation of the job itself. You are to find a man named Rex Hallbjornsson, an Icelander that a certain insurance company wishes to pay a sum of fifty thousand dollars to.”
Frank grinned, “That’s not hard to take, who left him this tidy little fortune?”
“A person whose life he saved at sea,” Mr. Hardy replied matter-of-factly. He then went on to explain that Hallbjornsson’s last known address was a London steamship company and that this ship was later sunk off the coast of France when it collided with a drifting mine. The man was thought lost, but then there were reports that he was staying with a family in Brittany, but by the time European detectives looked into it, Hallbjornsson was long gone.
“That’s not much to go on,” Joe mused, still mesmerized by the incredible tale.
“There’s more,” Fenton Hardy added, “He did leave a clue behind with the family in Brittany, it was just a scrap of paper bearing one word, ‘Island.’”
“Just Island?” Frank asked, “A one word clue?”
Mr. Hardy looked to his son with a small smile, “Yes, but it’s a rather important word,” he explained. “Island is the Icelandic word for Iceland. This causes me to believe that the clue means that Hallbjornsson, now in his sixties, might be returning to his native land.”
The boys sat there in silence, considering the enormity of their mission when Mr. Hardy added,
“Your job is to track him down. There’s a direct flight from New York to Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland.”
“And the danger part, dad?” Joe asked, not forgetting what his father mentioned earlier.
That’s when Mr. Hardy left the room and returned with a small device that looked like a transistor radio.
“What’s that?” Frank asked.
“It’s the latest in decoders,” Mr. Hardy replied, “It works on a decibel principle.”
He then explained that the high peaks of sound in any conversation were the keys to the code, and once these are established, the message can be decoded by using this special book.”
He then handed Frank a small black codebook and a miniature tape recorder,
“The recorder can be attached to a telephone or radio,” he concluded.
The elder Hardy then went over the principles of the decibel machine, and when they were finished the season detective said,
“Boys, you must guard this machine and code book carefully, it’s vital to another case I’m currently handling.”
“Connected with Iceland?” Joe asked.
“Very possibly,” his father replied, “And now that you have the device, I want you to leave on tonight’s Loftleider flight to Reykjavik.”
“This must be a very important device,” Frank mused as he held the decoder.
“Very important indeed,” Mr. Hardy replied, “It cannot fall into the wrong hands,” he added gravely.
“Thus, the danger,” the boys said at the same time.
Okay, what a beginning! A mission to Iceland, along with top secret decoder technology...I couldn’t wait to read on. And by the end I was thrilled with all the intrigue and adventure of this story, a few of my favorites being:
The mysterious and very knowledgeable flight attendant Steina, a missing astronaut, the ghost people of Iceland who wear brightly colored clothing, a daring light craft landing on the knife edged Vatnajokull Glacier, potential peril averted by a small object no larger than a nickel, the amazing Icelandic ponies, a good natured ship captain who saved the life of one of the Hardy boys, and a gang’s ingeniously hidden radio sending and receiving spy station.
It was one amazing moment after another!
October 28, 2023
The Hardy Boys is a long-running series of mysteries aimed at boy readers, that feature action and amateur sleuthing. Beginning in 1927, they were ghost-written by several writers, under the pseudonym of Franklin W. Dixon. The Arctic Patrol Mystery is #48, originally published in 1966. It came out just after the big re-write of the older Hardy Boys books #1 through #38, so is still the original story.
In it, Frank and Joe’s father sends them to Iceland to find a missing owner of a $50,000 inheritance. But once there, they become involved in the case of the international kidnapping of a US astronaut, that their father has been investigating. They make local friends, and the author gives background on the land and people of Iceland. It is a little strange that the US government would entrust such a significant case to a private investigator and his sons, rather than trained agents – but that’s what The Hardy Boys was all about.
I did not recognize this as one of the stories I read as a boy maybe 60 years ago, and I’m pretty sure the copies I found at my grandfather’s house in those days were the older ones with original storylines. But this one was released when I was 11, and I remember the covers from the bookstores. Too bad I didn’t have money to buy my own books then, because I think I would have enjoyed it.
In it, Frank and Joe’s father sends them to Iceland to find a missing owner of a $50,000 inheritance. But once there, they become involved in the case of the international kidnapping of a US astronaut, that their father has been investigating. They make local friends, and the author gives background on the land and people of Iceland. It is a little strange that the US government would entrust such a significant case to a private investigator and his sons, rather than trained agents – but that’s what The Hardy Boys was all about.
I did not recognize this as one of the stories I read as a boy maybe 60 years ago, and I’m pretty sure the copies I found at my grandfather’s house in those days were the older ones with original storylines. But this one was released when I was 11, and I remember the covers from the bookstores. Too bad I didn’t have money to buy my own books then, because I think I would have enjoyed it.
July 6, 2017
The Arctic Patrol Mystery (1969) by Franklin W. Dixon is the 48th book in the Hardy Boys series. This time Frank and Joe are off to Iceland to help their father track down a missing seaman who is the beneficiary in an insurance case. The man is believed to be a native of Iceland and so far there have been no leads to his whereabouts. The boys are encouraged to take their friend Chet Mortan along to provide some muscle as well as cover--a sight-seeing vacation. Fenton Hardy also has a second line of investigation on tap--a top-secret case that puts him in touch with the White House. Then Biff Hooper is dispatched to Iceland to bring the boys some much needed equipment. As Frank and Joe and their chums begin the search for Rex Hallbjonsson, they make friends with an Icelandic teenager by the name of Gudmunder Bergsson ("Gummi" to his friends). They also manage, unknowingly, to make enemies of some very dangerous men who think the boys are on their track. Fenton Hardy's case--which involves American astronauts and the space program--and the insurance case become intertwined and soon the Hardys are in a desperate race to rescue a missing astronaut as well as Chet and Biff who have disappeared....
This installment of the Hardy Boys was much more action-packed and dangerous than most of the stories I remember reading when I was young. I mean, after all, Chet & Biff are nearly blown up in cave by the bad guys! If it hadn't been for perfect timing on the part of Frank and Joe, their buddies would be history. Overall, a suspenseful and fun read--with some interesting background information on Iceland thrown in for good measure. The Hardy Boys stand up pretty well after nearly forty years.
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting. Thanks.
This installment of the Hardy Boys was much more action-packed and dangerous than most of the stories I remember reading when I was young. I mean, after all, Chet & Biff are nearly blown up in cave by the bad guys! If it hadn't been for perfect timing on the part of Frank and Joe, their buddies would be history. Overall, a suspenseful and fun read--with some interesting background information on Iceland thrown in for good measure. The Hardy Boys stand up pretty well after nearly forty years.
First posted on my blog My Reader's Block. Please request permission before reposting. Thanks.
January 2, 2021
These stories are always a nice quick read, even if they are completely unbelievable.
May 9, 2014
Abby says: This was really exciting because they were in Iceland and their friends were kidnapped. The boys also found another person who'd been kidnapped and my favourite part was when a bomb exploded in a cave. This was one of my favourite Hardy Boy bookslll so far!
July 26, 2023
This is the first Hardy Boys book I’ve ever read although I have seen some episodes of the TV series. It was a fun read but totally unbelievable given the boys are teenagers but all the adults do as they say. The Three Investigator books are still my favourite.
July 31, 2024
This was not my favorite of The Hardy Boys' series. I don't expect realism with these, but this one was just a bit too unrealistic. Everything seems to work out just a little bit too well, and the whole premise for why they're in Iceland in the first place makes no sense.
May 11, 2022
Owen Riecke
Mrs. Eyre
Junior English, Period 5
12 May 2022
The Icelandic Mystery
The Hardy Boys Patrol Mystery by Franklin W. Dixon is a story about a private investigator named Fenton Hardy who enlists his two sons Joe and Frank Hardy and their friends Chet Morton and Biff Hooper to travel to Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. They travel to Iceland to find a missing tailor who is being sought out by an insurance company and run into danger that leads to many clues being uncovered. This book is geared for kids ages 8-12 but in my opinion it is geared for all ages. I liked this book because it has realistic events that would happen in a real mystery and the details given can give you chills.
Many books do not go too far to make the story realistic, but this one does. In the book, morse code is used to communicate between the lead detective, Fenton Hardy and his sons Joe and Frank Hardy who are teen detectives. On page 40 it states, ¨They were rewarded at midnight when they received a coded broadcast from Mr. Hardy.¨ Morse code is important in detective work because it is a way to communicate to people without the enemy actually knowing what you are saying. Another form of detective work is getting evidence and examining it. Later in the book on page 96 it says, ¨ The research did not take long. First they examined the outside leather. Each glove proved to be the same general quality. ¨ Finding evidence and analyzing it makes the mystery way more realistics because it leads the detectives to solve the case. Without these elements the book would not be as realistic and the structure of the story may not be as good as well.
In order for me to be hooked on a book, I have to read a book that keeps me on my toes and makes me want to keep reading with thrilling details. On page 45 of the book it states, ¨Not to mention ghosts! Frank said… Chet shuddered a little bit and looked about the eerie valley. Suddenly he leaned forward and gripped Gummi´s shoulder.¨ When I read this quote I really wanted to know if they ran into or spotted a ghost and what would happen to them if they did run into a ghost. While looking for Joe Hardy after he went missing on page 72 it states, ¨A black leather glove lay close to the edge of the bubbling sulfur. Footprints were nearby. A chill ran down Frank´s spine as he looked from the glove to his friends. Gummi suddenly caught on. His face took on a look of terror… Where was Joe? Had he fallen into the pit?¨ This quote made chills run through my body. I really want to know if Joe had really fallen into the pit of bubbling sulfur which makes me want to read more.
The Hardy Boys Patrol Mystery is one of if not my favorite Hardy Boys book in the series. The story being realistic to an actual mystery and the thrilling details make the book a really fun read. Someone may disagree with me that the book is realistic because the characters get out of trouble fairly easily. This may not seem as realistic to some readers. Even so, I recommend anyone and everyone to read any book in the Hardy Boys series because it is fun and exciting for all ages.
Mrs. Eyre
Junior English, Period 5
12 May 2022
The Icelandic Mystery
The Hardy Boys Patrol Mystery by Franklin W. Dixon is a story about a private investigator named Fenton Hardy who enlists his two sons Joe and Frank Hardy and their friends Chet Morton and Biff Hooper to travel to Reykjavik, the capital city of Iceland. They travel to Iceland to find a missing tailor who is being sought out by an insurance company and run into danger that leads to many clues being uncovered. This book is geared for kids ages 8-12 but in my opinion it is geared for all ages. I liked this book because it has realistic events that would happen in a real mystery and the details given can give you chills.
Many books do not go too far to make the story realistic, but this one does. In the book, morse code is used to communicate between the lead detective, Fenton Hardy and his sons Joe and Frank Hardy who are teen detectives. On page 40 it states, ¨They were rewarded at midnight when they received a coded broadcast from Mr. Hardy.¨ Morse code is important in detective work because it is a way to communicate to people without the enemy actually knowing what you are saying. Another form of detective work is getting evidence and examining it. Later in the book on page 96 it says, ¨ The research did not take long. First they examined the outside leather. Each glove proved to be the same general quality. ¨ Finding evidence and analyzing it makes the mystery way more realistics because it leads the detectives to solve the case. Without these elements the book would not be as realistic and the structure of the story may not be as good as well.
In order for me to be hooked on a book, I have to read a book that keeps me on my toes and makes me want to keep reading with thrilling details. On page 45 of the book it states, ¨Not to mention ghosts! Frank said… Chet shuddered a little bit and looked about the eerie valley. Suddenly he leaned forward and gripped Gummi´s shoulder.¨ When I read this quote I really wanted to know if they ran into or spotted a ghost and what would happen to them if they did run into a ghost. While looking for Joe Hardy after he went missing on page 72 it states, ¨A black leather glove lay close to the edge of the bubbling sulfur. Footprints were nearby. A chill ran down Frank´s spine as he looked from the glove to his friends. Gummi suddenly caught on. His face took on a look of terror… Where was Joe? Had he fallen into the pit?¨ This quote made chills run through my body. I really want to know if Joe had really fallen into the pit of bubbling sulfur which makes me want to read more.
The Hardy Boys Patrol Mystery is one of if not my favorite Hardy Boys book in the series. The story being realistic to an actual mystery and the thrilling details make the book a really fun read. Someone may disagree with me that the book is realistic because the characters get out of trouble fairly easily. This may not seem as realistic to some readers. Even so, I recommend anyone and everyone to read any book in the Hardy Boys series because it is fun and exciting for all ages.
January 6, 2010
by justin hoskins adv 206
(1) What did you think the book was about?
When I first saw the book’s cover I thought that the whole book was about them crashing a plane and being stranded in the arctic and they had to send a patrol team looking for them. I thought that because on the cover there is a picture of a plane crashing and frank and Joe hardy walking in a storm and the title is arctic patrol mystery. So I thought that there was a patrol team and there trying to find out why the plane crashed and trying to find the hardy boys. Then while I was reading the book I saw a sentence where it said that the plane was crashing so I knew that I was a bit right but a bit wrong because they crash near the middle of the book. I also knew that the book was about some big mystery because the title arctic patrol mystery. I was right for that thought.
(2) Did you feel that the book fulfilled your expectations? Were you disappointed?
After I read the book I felt fulfilled because it had mystery and action. The two things I like in a book. And I found how they put the N.A.S.A. astronaut in the book was really cool because they are really important. Also because the astronaut got abducted and that is what pretty much started the whole mystery and investigation in the book. So I found that the book was really interesting and did not disappoint me whatsoever. After reading this book it made me feels like reading the rest of the series for example “the masked monkey” or “the secret agent on flight 101”. Those were the same type of book mystery and action so they were both interesting.
(3) Did you enjoy the book? Why? Why not?
I thought the book was really interesting. The reason why I found the “arctic patrol mystery” book to be so interesting was because it contained two of the themes I like most in novels. Those two themes are mystery and action.
(4) How did the book compare to other books by the author (or other books in the same genre)?
This book compared to other hardy boys books because it wasn’t too different because its still about mysteries but there is a difference because in each book the mystery is about something else and its held in different locations. For example in the masked monkey which the location was in the jungle in this book the location is the arctic.
(5) What about the plot? Did it pull you in or did you feel like you had to force yourself to read the book?
To me the plot was really interesting because I like mystery and action movies and books. For example when the N.A.S.A astronaut got kidnapped it turned into a mystery book but when Joe got electrocuted by the safe it turned into an action book. So I did not have to force myself to read this book because it has the two themes I like the most when it comes to books. But to me it could have been better if there was a murder and that was the mystery.
(6) Were the characters realistic? Would you want to meet any of the characters? Did you like them? Hate them?
In my book the characters were pretty realistic because the way the author describes in some of the books. Also the images every few pages help me know what the characters look like. But if I had to meet any one of them it would probably be Mr. Hardy. I would choose him because he is a world famous detective and he could probably teach me some tricks. But the person I hate in the story is Chet because to me his personality is really bad and according to the hardy boys so is his fighting. Also he always comes up with these crazy ideas.
(7) Did the actions of the characters seem plausible? Why? Why not?
I think it’s possible but I don’t think it’s likely because in the book Joe gets electrocuted by a safe. And that’s the first time I ever heard of someone ever getting electrocuted by an electrified safe.
(9) How would the book have been different if it had taken place in a different time or place?
Yes the book would have been different if it took place in Florida for example it would not be so easy because the plane would not crash on an iceberg. And if it was a different time then it would not be a hi-tech plane it would be like one of the first planes ever made with an open cockpit.
(11) How are the books images symbolically significant? Do the images help to develop the plot, or help to define characters?
The books images were helpful to identify the plot because under the images it shows the sentence where the image takes place. For example if they got into a castle it would probably say as they crept into the castle or something.
(12) Did the book end the way you expected?
The book ended the way I expected. It ended the same way as the others. It ended with the hardy boys catching the bad guys and they save the day in Iceland. The same as the other books
(13) Would you recommend this book to other readers? To your close friend?
I would recommend this book to my close friend because he likes the same themes in books that I do. The themes like action, mystery and suspense. So if you like books that have action, suspense and mystery than this is a good book for you.
(14) If you were casting these characters in a movie, what actors/ actresses would play them?
If I was making a movie I would cast matt Damon as frank hardy and I would cast brad Pitt as Joe hardy. I would use those two actors because they have both been in action movies and this book has action in it. For example Matt Damon has been in shooter, the bourn identity and the bourn ultimatum. And brad Pitt is in the movie Shutter Island and inglorious bastards.
(15) What was your favorite part/scene of the book?
My favorite part of the book is the end of it because you get to know who did it and why. Also you get to read how they catch the villain. But the best part of the end is that the suspense is finally over.
(16) What was your least favorite part/scene of the book?
My least favorite part of this book was when they go into the cellar using a trap door and Joe gets electrocuted and knocked out because he touched the safe.
(18) On a scale from 1-5 what would give this book, what would have made this book better?
I would give this book a five because I really like it. I liked the themes of adventure and mystery and action. And anyone who likes those themes would like this book. And I would recommend this book to everyone I know. But I would have liked this book a bit more if it was longer.
(1) What did you think the book was about?
When I first saw the book’s cover I thought that the whole book was about them crashing a plane and being stranded in the arctic and they had to send a patrol team looking for them. I thought that because on the cover there is a picture of a plane crashing and frank and Joe hardy walking in a storm and the title is arctic patrol mystery. So I thought that there was a patrol team and there trying to find out why the plane crashed and trying to find the hardy boys. Then while I was reading the book I saw a sentence where it said that the plane was crashing so I knew that I was a bit right but a bit wrong because they crash near the middle of the book. I also knew that the book was about some big mystery because the title arctic patrol mystery. I was right for that thought.
(2) Did you feel that the book fulfilled your expectations? Were you disappointed?
After I read the book I felt fulfilled because it had mystery and action. The two things I like in a book. And I found how they put the N.A.S.A. astronaut in the book was really cool because they are really important. Also because the astronaut got abducted and that is what pretty much started the whole mystery and investigation in the book. So I found that the book was really interesting and did not disappoint me whatsoever. After reading this book it made me feels like reading the rest of the series for example “the masked monkey” or “the secret agent on flight 101”. Those were the same type of book mystery and action so they were both interesting.
(3) Did you enjoy the book? Why? Why not?
I thought the book was really interesting. The reason why I found the “arctic patrol mystery” book to be so interesting was because it contained two of the themes I like most in novels. Those two themes are mystery and action.
(4) How did the book compare to other books by the author (or other books in the same genre)?
This book compared to other hardy boys books because it wasn’t too different because its still about mysteries but there is a difference because in each book the mystery is about something else and its held in different locations. For example in the masked monkey which the location was in the jungle in this book the location is the arctic.
(5) What about the plot? Did it pull you in or did you feel like you had to force yourself to read the book?
To me the plot was really interesting because I like mystery and action movies and books. For example when the N.A.S.A astronaut got kidnapped it turned into a mystery book but when Joe got electrocuted by the safe it turned into an action book. So I did not have to force myself to read this book because it has the two themes I like the most when it comes to books. But to me it could have been better if there was a murder and that was the mystery.
(6) Were the characters realistic? Would you want to meet any of the characters? Did you like them? Hate them?
In my book the characters were pretty realistic because the way the author describes in some of the books. Also the images every few pages help me know what the characters look like. But if I had to meet any one of them it would probably be Mr. Hardy. I would choose him because he is a world famous detective and he could probably teach me some tricks. But the person I hate in the story is Chet because to me his personality is really bad and according to the hardy boys so is his fighting. Also he always comes up with these crazy ideas.
(7) Did the actions of the characters seem plausible? Why? Why not?
I think it’s possible but I don’t think it’s likely because in the book Joe gets electrocuted by a safe. And that’s the first time I ever heard of someone ever getting electrocuted by an electrified safe.
(9) How would the book have been different if it had taken place in a different time or place?
Yes the book would have been different if it took place in Florida for example it would not be so easy because the plane would not crash on an iceberg. And if it was a different time then it would not be a hi-tech plane it would be like one of the first planes ever made with an open cockpit.
(11) How are the books images symbolically significant? Do the images help to develop the plot, or help to define characters?
The books images were helpful to identify the plot because under the images it shows the sentence where the image takes place. For example if they got into a castle it would probably say as they crept into the castle or something.
(12) Did the book end the way you expected?
The book ended the way I expected. It ended the same way as the others. It ended with the hardy boys catching the bad guys and they save the day in Iceland. The same as the other books
(13) Would you recommend this book to other readers? To your close friend?
I would recommend this book to my close friend because he likes the same themes in books that I do. The themes like action, mystery and suspense. So if you like books that have action, suspense and mystery than this is a good book for you.
(14) If you were casting these characters in a movie, what actors/ actresses would play them?
If I was making a movie I would cast matt Damon as frank hardy and I would cast brad Pitt as Joe hardy. I would use those two actors because they have both been in action movies and this book has action in it. For example Matt Damon has been in shooter, the bourn identity and the bourn ultimatum. And brad Pitt is in the movie Shutter Island and inglorious bastards.
(15) What was your favorite part/scene of the book?
My favorite part of the book is the end of it because you get to know who did it and why. Also you get to read how they catch the villain. But the best part of the end is that the suspense is finally over.
(16) What was your least favorite part/scene of the book?
My least favorite part of this book was when they go into the cellar using a trap door and Joe gets electrocuted and knocked out because he touched the safe.
(18) On a scale from 1-5 what would give this book, what would have made this book better?
I would give this book a five because I really like it. I liked the themes of adventure and mystery and action. And anyone who likes those themes would like this book. And I would recommend this book to everyone I know. But I would have liked this book a bit more if it was longer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2017
The Arctic Patrol Mystery
(Hardy boys book 48)
The Arctic Patrol Mystery is one of the 58 Hardy Boys books and Franklin W. Dixon does a fantastic job at setting the scene and researching the scene, he had multiple cities and words that were spoken in the Icelandic language. Franklin also does a good job at making the characters round, meaning the reader knows a lot about the character.
I have read 11 of the Hardy boys books and I would have to say that the Arctic Patrol Mystery was my least favorite. It just didn’t run smoothly, It was one scene to the next to the next in only 1 chapter. My brain was very confused about the story, the beginning made sense but I thought it was just too much for my brain to handle at the end. I don’t think the way Franklin had the two boys in two different places was a good idea, He was trying to tell two stories in one book and I think he could have done a better job.
I still would recommend it to people about 13-14 because it was still a good book, it just was not for me. If you are reading it go into it with an open mind. My favorite part about the book was the ending when they ended the case. I think Franklin W. Dixon is great at writing action packed books, I just think this one had a little too much action.
(Hardy boys book 48)
The Arctic Patrol Mystery is one of the 58 Hardy Boys books and Franklin W. Dixon does a fantastic job at setting the scene and researching the scene, he had multiple cities and words that were spoken in the Icelandic language. Franklin also does a good job at making the characters round, meaning the reader knows a lot about the character.
I have read 11 of the Hardy boys books and I would have to say that the Arctic Patrol Mystery was my least favorite. It just didn’t run smoothly, It was one scene to the next to the next in only 1 chapter. My brain was very confused about the story, the beginning made sense but I thought it was just too much for my brain to handle at the end. I don’t think the way Franklin had the two boys in two different places was a good idea, He was trying to tell two stories in one book and I think he could have done a better job.
I still would recommend it to people about 13-14 because it was still a good book, it just was not for me. If you are reading it go into it with an open mind. My favorite part about the book was the ending when they ended the case. I think Franklin W. Dixon is great at writing action packed books, I just think this one had a little too much action.
September 14, 2021
I suppose I read this as a kid but just recently picked up a reprint at a Little Free Library. The Hardy Boys don't hold up for me very well when rereading the books as an adult. I don't like how easily everything comes to them. They have their own boat, access to an airplane, they're the most popular boys in school, going out with the prettiest girls, etc. I see the appeal for some readers, especially the nostalgia factor, but for me, the Three Investigators, at least the first 25 or so entries, is a far superior series. The Hardys aren't particularly smart, and even given all of their other advantages, the "solutions" to their mysteries often come about through pure dumb luck or coincidence. Their friend Chet Morton is far more interesting as a character, though he's often relegated to the role of comic relief. Now having said all of that, I found this more enjoyable than I'd expected. Though it wasn't at all believable, it was a fun read, with plenty of action and some interesting information on Icelandic culture and geography. I'd have undoubtedly and absolutely loved this book as a kid.
July 7, 2022
This one's set mostly in Iceland, and it's one of the better ones. It was published in 1969, hence the inclusion of astronauts training for the moon landing among the plot points.
So with this one, I'm all done reading through the thirty or so Hardy boy books I collected more than fifty years ago. What are the takeaways? (1) Back in the day, I started writing the date I finished a book on the flyleaf -- I read a ton of these in the summer of 1971. (2) Frank and Joe can do anything. (3) The original versions of the early ones were condensed and revised in the 1960s, thank goodness -- the older versions featured a lot of racist stereotypes. (4) Even the later ones do not show an enlightened view of gender roles. Female characters are either pretty (Callie, Iola, the very dull Mrs. Hardy), tart-tongued (Aunt Gertrude), or grandmotherly (various one-and-done characters). It is very much a guy's world. (5) The early stories are set in and around Bayport, but then the boys started to travel for their adventures, mostly around North America. This is actually the best feature of the books, and I wonder how much my own wanderlust has been shaped by reading about the Hardies.
So with this one, I'm all done reading through the thirty or so Hardy boy books I collected more than fifty years ago. What are the takeaways? (1) Back in the day, I started writing the date I finished a book on the flyleaf -- I read a ton of these in the summer of 1971. (2) Frank and Joe can do anything. (3) The original versions of the early ones were condensed and revised in the 1960s, thank goodness -- the older versions featured a lot of racist stereotypes. (4) Even the later ones do not show an enlightened view of gender roles. Female characters are either pretty (Callie, Iola, the very dull Mrs. Hardy), tart-tongued (Aunt Gertrude), or grandmotherly (various one-and-done characters). It is very much a guy's world. (5) The early stories are set in and around Bayport, but then the boys started to travel for their adventures, mostly around North America. This is actually the best feature of the books, and I wonder how much my own wanderlust has been shaped by reading about the Hardies.
March 19, 2024
One of the best entries in the Hardy Boys series. Maybe the best tale that takes place outside the U.S.
Frank and Joe are asked by their father, Fenton, to track down a man in Iceland that is the beneficiary of a large insurance policy. By the time they land in Iceland, however, the brothers (along with Chet Morton) are mixed up with their Dad's other case. That may be typical, but this investigation was initiated by NASA. Not a usual client, even for the world-renowned Fenton Hardy.
Due to a packing error by Chet, Biff Hooper shows up the next day to help. The four friends met up with an Icelandic youth named Gummi and then the adventure begins!
Multiple kidnappings, false identities, and a polar bear attack are only a few of the highlights in this adventure. Unlike a few of the other stories, the resolution to this tale goes almost to the final page. Chet even gets to be a hero in this one.
A must-read for fans of the series and a good introduction to new readers.
Find it! Buy it! READ IT!
Frank and Joe are asked by their father, Fenton, to track down a man in Iceland that is the beneficiary of a large insurance policy. By the time they land in Iceland, however, the brothers (along with Chet Morton) are mixed up with their Dad's other case. That may be typical, but this investigation was initiated by NASA. Not a usual client, even for the world-renowned Fenton Hardy.
Due to a packing error by Chet, Biff Hooper shows up the next day to help. The four friends met up with an Icelandic youth named Gummi and then the adventure begins!
Multiple kidnappings, false identities, and a polar bear attack are only a few of the highlights in this adventure. Unlike a few of the other stories, the resolution to this tale goes almost to the final page. Chet even gets to be a hero in this one.
A must-read for fans of the series and a good introduction to new readers.
Find it! Buy it! READ IT!
October 12, 2021
The Hardy Boys get to go to such exotic, COOL places. This time it's Iceland and they bring Chet along! Helping there father with a mystery they are sent to find a seaman who has inherited money. They enlist the help of a local called Gummie who is able to show them around and drive them places. The boys have a kidnapper following them so they must be careful. When a necessary device is missing another friend joins them bringing the device from Bayport. With four of them finding the seaman should be easier but trouble ensues. I liked the information in the book about Iceland. You never know what you might learn when reading the Hardy Boys books.
June 20, 2022
Just like the other Hardy boys full of fun and adventure! Really enjoyed the setting of this book! Only reason I give it a 4 instead of a 5 is because the mystery in this one was not quiet as good as the other ones. It was a really simple and we really did'nt know the actual mystery until the end. But I really enjoyed this book! My favorite part was how Mar was a mystery. You really did'nt know to trust him or not. Great book!
April 16, 2024
An adventure set in Iceland! Needless to say, I'm a little biased towards the book! The research on naming system added a little spunk to the book, which was an interesting twist.
Chet coming to the Hardy's rescue in the nick of time as usual! Rex Mar was a sombre character, not entirely trustworthy till the very end!
The side plot concerning the American astronaut was a little slow, but added a much needed pzazz to the slow mystery!
Chet coming to the Hardy's rescue in the nick of time as usual! Rex Mar was a sombre character, not entirely trustworthy till the very end!
The side plot concerning the American astronaut was a little slow, but added a much needed pzazz to the slow mystery!
November 21, 2021
At least one of these stars is for nostalgia. I loved this book when I was about 10, not long after it came out. It actually started a lifelong fascination with Iceland that continues today.
The mystery itself is fairly pedestrian. Fun but not one of the best. Still I enjoyed revisiting it. And I still love how it introduces so much about Iceland.
The mystery itself is fairly pedestrian. Fun but not one of the best. Still I enjoyed revisiting it. And I still love how it introduces so much about Iceland.
December 25, 2024
Hey, I like the Hardy Boys books. I always (almost) learn something I didn't know before. In this one I learned, having missed an explanation by Fenton Hardy some chapters before, that "Fluggelag Islands" means Iceland Airlines.
Not sure what "Biff flooper" on page 438 (eBook edition) means, ha ha...
Also, having trouble visualizing a "large tray of red-hot pizza."
Not sure what "Biff flooper" on page 438 (eBook edition) means, ha ha...
Also, having trouble visualizing a "large tray of red-hot pizza."
October 30, 2025
So this was actually really good for Hardy Boys! Nothing got really weird, even at the end, and it was different from a lot of the others. I really liked the Cold War/secret agent feel, that was fun.
Of course we know if it's top secret Chet will blab, and the Hardys always make stupid decisions, but at least they didn't jump to any crazy conclusions this time. 😜
Of course we know if it's top secret Chet will blab, and the Hardys always make stupid decisions, but at least they didn't jump to any crazy conclusions this time. 😜
March 1, 2021
The Arctic Patrol Mystery is the first Hardy Boys book I've read. It was a bit of a slow start, but once the brothers and their friends made it to Iceland, the many end-of-the-chapter cliffhangers made it an adventurous and a page-turning read.
June 26, 2023
This installment was okay as far as the story line goes.
One thing I have noticed is that the Boys seem to get placed in a lot more near death situations, which is interesting.
Not a bad story that young adults may find interesting.
One thing I have noticed is that the Boys seem to get placed in a lot more near death situations, which is interesting.
Not a bad story that young adults may find interesting.
December 31, 2024
I really enjoyed this one. Iceland is te setting for this missing person/espionage case. Frank, Joe, Chet and Biff and their new Icelandic friend, Gummi, work to find a missing astronaut, an insurance recipient and international criminals! All in a week's work for our intrepid detectives!
September 20, 2025
The boys go to Iceland to find a man due an inheritance. While there they get involved in the search for a kidnapped US astronaut.
The boys get roughed up a lot in this book, and both Frank and Joe get a full KO. The KO Count is now up to 61!
The boys get roughed up a lot in this book, and both Frank and Joe get a full KO. The KO Count is now up to 61!
November 28, 2017
Awesome, great thrilling exciting mystery
December 14, 2017
Great book had lots of interesting plot twists
Greatly written I will always enjoy reading Hardy Boys the author always writes books hi hi hi hu hj hi
Greatly written I will always enjoy reading Hardy Boys the author always writes books hi hi hi hu hj hi
February 16, 2018
I love it. Iceland! Astronauts! NASA! Fenton! Great story, classic Hardy Boys.
March 15, 2018
Great reading! The cliffhangers at the end of each chapter made it hard for the kids to let me put it down..."One more chapter, please!!"
January 25, 2019
This book was very interesting and I think anybody that likes mystery books will like this.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews