The Academy Boys in Camp

"The Academy Boys in Camp" by S. F. Keene is an adventure story about a group of boys from Massillon Academy who go on a camping trip to Whaleback, an island with nobody living on it. The story is mostly about Joe Chester and his friends as they learn about being friends, being brave, and growing up. At the start, the boys are getting ready for their camping trip and joking around, but something happens with some schoolbooks that makes trouble. Joe has to decide whether to keep a secret, which shows how hard it can be to be honest and do the right thing. As they get ready for their adventure, they gather their things and talk about how excited they are, which hints at exciting times and hard things ahead. The beginning of the story makes you feel like you are there with Joe and his friends as they get ready for an exciting adventure outside.