The author of the Hardy Boys Mysteries was, as millions of readers know, Franklin W. Dixon. Except there never was a Franklin W. Dixon. He was the creation of Edward Stratemeyer, the savvy founder of a children's book empire that also published the Tom Swift, Bobbsey Twins, and Nancy Drew series. The Secret of the Hardy Boys: Leslie McFarlane and the Stratemeyer Syndicate recounts how a newspaper reporter with dreams of becoming a serious novelist first brought to life Joe and Frank Hardy, who became two of the most famous characters in children’s literature. Embarrassed by his secret identity as the author of the Hardy Boys books, Leslie McFarlane admitted it to no one-his son pried the truth out of him years later. Having signed away all rights to the books, McFarlane never shared in the wild financial success of the series. Far from being bitter, however, late in life McFarlane took satisfaction in having helped introduce millions of children to the joys of reading. Commenting on the longevity of the Hardy Boys series, the New York Times noted, “Mr. McFarlane breathed originality into the Stratemeyer plots, loading on playful detail.” Author Marilyn Greenwald gives us the story of McFarlane’s life and career, including for the first time a compelling account of his writing life after the Hardy Boys. A talented and versatile writer, McFarlane adapted to sweeping changes in North American markets for writers, as pulp and glossy magazines made way for films, radio, and television. It is a fascinating and inspiring story of the force of talent and personality transcending narrow limits.

Teenage detectives Frank and Joe Hardy investigate a case of counterfeiting.

The Hardy Boys series, first published in 1927, has sold more than 70 million copies! Now with a brand-new look, this is an edition that collectors won't want to miss! In The Secret of the Caves, the seventh book in the incredibly popular, long-running series, Frank and Joe Hardy discover the secret of the Honeycomb Caves while searching for a missing professor. A special treat for Hardy Boys fans and any reader who's new to the series!

"What Happened At Midnight" is an exciting mystery novel by Franklin W. Dixon. The story revolves around the adventures of the Hardy Boys, Frank and Joe, who are skilled amateur detectives always eager to take on challenging cases. The plot begins with the Hardy Boys receiving a mysterious message requesting their assistance in solving a perplexing and dangerous case. Intrigued, they set out to unravel the enigma and uncover the truth behind the strange events that occurred at midnight. As the brothers delve deeper into the investigation, they encounter a series of thrilling escapades and encounters with suspicious characters. From hidden passages to cryptic clues, the Hardy Boys use their intelligence, bravery, and quick thinking to navigate the twists and turns of the case. As the story unfolds, the brothers find themselves entangled in a complex web of deception and danger. They must rely on their detective skills and work together to decipher codes, follow leads, and uncover hidden secrets. Throughout their quest for the truth, the Hardy Boys face various challenges, including narrow escapes, daring rescues, and unexpected revelations. With every clue they uncover, the mystery deepens, and the stakes become higher. In their relentless pursuit of justice, Frank and Joe race against time to solve the puzzle before the clock strikes midnight once again. The climax of the story is filled with suspense and excitement, as the Hardy Boys finally uncover the truth behind the mysterious events that took place in the dead of night. "What Happened At Midnight" is a thrilling and engaging mystery that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish, showcasing the bravery and resourcefulness of the Hardy Boys as they solve yet another intriguing case.

Frank and Joe must solve the mysteries of a "monster" who terrorizes Bayport and a girl who runs away to join a cult, which may just be linked.

The Hardy brothers must dismantle a dangerous crime gang in this first book of a fresh approach to a classic series. Teenagers Frank and Joe Hardy are supposedly “retired” from their detective work. But there is a new mystery in Bayport that needs their investigative expertise—and fast! Starting with a bank heist, a series of alarming pranks have popped up around Bayport. Ultimately harmless, the pranks turn out to be the work of Seth Diller, an amateur filmmaker who plans to make “zillions” from his reality-horror flick, which he’ll use to help out his brother, a wounded Marine. But after the Hardy brothers put a stop to the Panic Project, there is a new outbreak of Seth-like pranks—only these have definite victims. All signs point to evidence of a crime gang in Bayport, and Frank and Joe undertake the most dangerous investigation they’ve ever encountered. It’s up to them to save their town—and themselves—before the Red Arrow gets to them first.

Strange events involve Frank and Joe Hardy in a mystery which shrouds an ancient treasure—the golden head of the Pharaoh Rhamaton IV. The owner of the million-dollar golden Pharaoh’s head claims it was aboard the freighter Katawa, which sank not far from Whalebone Island. But suspicious developments indicate that Mehmet Zufar may be trying to defraud the shipping line’s insurance company. Frank and Joe enthusiastically accept the challenge of their famous detective father to assist him in investigating the complex case for Transmarine Underwriters.