Book excerpt: The Stratemeyer syndicate used the pseudonym Victor Appleton when writing several series for boys including Tom Swift. Edward Stratemeyer did the original outlines for the series, which was published between 1910 and 1941. Tom Swift was a genius inventor. He specialized in technology especially related to transportation. Later the series was followed by the Tom Swift Jr. series. Tom Swift and His Electric Runabout: or, The Speediest Car on the Road was published in 1910. Tom enters a race with his prototype of an electric car. Days before the race Tom discovers a plot that would bankrupt not only his family, but also everyone else that relies on the local bank. Tom must solve the mystery before he can compete in the 200 mile race against some of the best cars in the United States.