Dave Dashaway was a series of juvenile aviation novels written for the Stratemeyer Syndicate by Weldon J. Cobb, using the pseudonym of Roy Rockwood.Fred Erisman, Boys’ Books, Boys' Dreams, and the Mystique of Flight, pages 55 - 58, Texas Christian University Press, 2006 The series was published by Cupples & Leon from 1913 to 1915.University of Missouri-Kansas City WorldCat Holdings The hardback books had a picture printed onto the front cover, plus a black and white frontispiece illustration.Diane McClure Jones & Rosemary Jones, Boys' & Girls' Book Series, page 61, Collector Books, 2002
Advertising shows that the series was being sold until at least 1935.Book Ad, Idaho Evening Times, December 5, 1935, page 16
Series preparation In May 1912 Edward Stratemeyer wrote to Weldon J. Cobb and sent him outlines of the first two volumes of a new book series. Stratemeyer stated "We want bright, up to date stories, but free from sensationalism. I would like you to give some information about flying machines in general, monoplanes, biplanes, etc., but not mention any particular makes, no manufacturers, no aviators, as we do not care to advertise anybody." He also advised the writer to buy Aircraft and Fly magazines, as well as “some practical book on flying machines and flying."
Series synopsis Dave is the orphaned son of a famous balloonist, and the lad was forced to live with a cruel guardian.Dave Dashaway the Young Aviator, pages 1 - 5, Cupples & Leon Co., 1913 He runs away from his guardian, finds work as an airport handyman, studies flying with famed aviator Robert King, and is hired as a pilot for Interstate Aero Company. Dave befriends Hiram Hobbs, who becomes his assistant, and the series "obligatory sidekick."
Series titles The aviation series contains the following titles:
Dave Dashaway, the Young Aviator: or, In the Clouds For Fame and Fortune - 1913 Dave Dashaway, and His Hydroplane; or, Daring Adventures Over the Great Lakes - 1913 Dave Dashaway, and His Giant Airship; or, A Marvellious Trip Across the Atlantic - 1913 Dave Dashaway, Around the World; or, A Young Yankee Aviator Among Many Nations - 1913 Dave Dashaway, Air Champion; or, Wizard Work In the Clouds - 1915
References
External links Project Gutenberg Dave Dashaway books The Dave Dashaway Page