The Trippertrots are Lost

Name: The Trippertrots are Lost
Author: Howard R. Garis

The story follows the adventures of three siblings, Tommy, Johnny, and Mary Trippertrot, who live in a big city with their parents. Known for their tendency to wander off, the Trippertrot children decide to sneak out for a walk while their nursemaid, Suzette, is distracted by a phone call. As they explore the city, they encounter various sights, including a toy store where they pretend to choose toys from the window display. Their adventure takes a turn when they realize they are lost and cannot find their way home. Initially frightened, they remember their mother's advice to seek help from a policeman if they ever get lost. A kind policeman approaches them, and Mary explains their predicament. The policeman reassures them and offers to help them find their way home. The story highlights themes of curiosity, adventure, and the importance of seeking help when in trouble.

By Howard R. Garis · First published 1921 · Genre: Children's Literature, Adventure, Humor · 2,130 words

First lines

Once upon a time, not so very many years ago, there were two little boys, and a little girl, who lived with their papa and mamma in a house in a big city. One of the boys was named Tommy, and the other was called Johnny, and the little girl's name was Mary. Mary was seven years old, Tommy was six, and Johnny was the youngest of all, being only five years old. Now the children had a last name, which was the funny one of Trippertrot. They were called this because they were always tripping or trotting off somewhere or other.

One day, when Tommy and Johnny and Mary were at play in their house, the telephone bell rang, and Suzette, the nursemaid, who had charge of the children, ran to answer it.

What this Textopian page supports

The Trippertrots are Lost is listed on Textopian as a short story by Howard R. Garis, dated 1921 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Howard R. Garis
Date: 1921 CE
Language: English
Genres: Children's Literature, Adventure, Humor, Fantasy
Length: 2,130 words
Structure: 1 section, 60 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Children's Literature — The narrative is designed for young readers with simple language, playful adventures, and moral undertones.
Adventure — The plot centers on the misadventures of children as they explore and get lost, creating a sense of excitement and discovery.
Humor — The story employs a light-hearted, witty tone with whimsical situations and amusing dialogue.
Fantasy — Imaginative elements, such as make-believe scenarios in a toy store, infuse the narrative with a touch of fantasy.