Lost on the Moon; Or, in Quest of the Field of Diamonds

"Lost on the Moon; Or, in Quest of the Field of Diamonds" by Roy Rockwood is a science fiction adventure that follows two young boys, Jack Darrow and Mark Sampson, driven by the lure of Martian news about diamonds on the moon, known as "Reonaris." With the help of their mentor, Professor Henderson, the boys dream of building a spacecraft and traveling to the moon to find the valuable claim. The story kicks off with Jack and Mark passionately debating the truth of the news and confirming with their professor, they excitedly begin charting their space voyage. Unexpectedly, Mark vanishes while investigating a strange nearby house, which creates considerable worry for Jack. The beginning of the story sets the stage for a great expedition, the spirit of discovery, while also hinting at looming dangers that the group is set to encounter.