Edith Van Dyne
Writing as "Edith Van Dyne," The Wonderful Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum brings remarkable depth and sensitivity to this novel intended for younger readers. Forward-thinking couple Arthur and Louise Weldon hire a Mexican nanny to care for their beloved baby Jane. However, this move causes tension in the family, as clashing views about race come to the forefront.
Under the pen name "Edith Van Dyne," Wizard of Oz author L. Frank Baum created the memorable character Mary Louise, a spirited teenager with a knack for solving mysteries and righting injustices. In Mary Louise and the Liberty Girls, the heroine and her chums contribute to the war effort.
"Edith Van Dyne" is the pseudonym under which L. Frank Baum penned a popular series of novels for younger audiences. In this tale, indefatigable heroine Mary Louise finds out that her beloved grandfather has been accused of treason and works tirelessly to clear his name and restore his reputation.
Part of the "Aunt Jane's Nieces" series written by Wizard of Oz creator L. Frank Baum (who used the pen name "Edith Van Dyne"), this novel has the girls visiting California and getting a crash course in the ins and outs of movie-making and the pleasures and pitfalls of celebrity.
After months of travels and adventures that were recounted in previous books in the Aunt Jane's Nieces series, the girls settle down for what they think will be a restful summer in a quaint rural village. But soon after their arrival, a number of unusual events transpire, and the girls soon find themselves embroiled in a confounding mystery.
This is the second book in a series of novels for younger audiences penned under a pseudonym by L. Frank Baum. Mary Louise in the Country takes up the issue of home rule for Ireland and features a co-starring role from the street-smart Josie O'Gorman.