Solve the mystery of Nancy Drew

The Mount Prospect Historical Society will soon offer a program about America's favorite fictional teen sleuth - Nancy Drew.

Join expert Susan Becker to discover the story behind Nancy Drew at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, at the society's Central School, 103 S. Maple St., Mount Prospect.

First bursting on to the scene in 1930, Nancy was an immediate success with girls yearning for a feminist role model before they even knew they wanted one. Nancy Drew Mysteries continue to be read today, more than 80 years since her creation.

"A magazine article spurred my interest in Nancy Drew several years ago," Becker said. "I was intrigued to discover the true history of Nancy and her creator."

And don't think that you are going to learn about Carolyn Keene; Nancy Drew's true creator was Edward Stratemeyer, who took the pen name of Carolyn Keene when writing his Nancy Drew stories.

Stratemeyer was the most prolific author of 20th century juvenile literature of whom you have never heard.

During his lifetime, he developed more than 125 different series, which in addition to the Nancy Drew included Tom Swift, the Bobbsey Twins and the Hardy Boys. Books and other items of interest will be on display.

Becker, who read her first Nancy Drew book at age 8, added, "I wish I hadn't given away my own collection to a younger cousin."

Tickets are $12 per person. Space is limited; note that society programs have sold out in the past. Light refreshments will be served.

For information or to reserve your spot, visit www.mtphist.org or call (847) 392-9006.

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