The Purple Flame: A Mystery Story for Girls, written by Roy J. Snell in the early 20th century, follows Marian Norton, a young girl herding reindeer in the Arctic wilderness of Alaska. The narrative begins with Marian encountering a mysterious purple flame from an abandoned dredging scow, sparking her curiosity and sense of adventure. As she manages her reindeer herd while her father recuperates in the States, she prepares for her cousin Patsy's arrival and navigates the challenges of life in the harsh northern terrain. This novel combines elements of mystery, adventure, and the complexities of familial relationships in a unique setting.
