I can’t get over how well-executed this Hardy Boys illustration is, from what was one of my favorite books from the series, Hunting for Hidden Gold. (A reproduction of this image currently hangs on my living room wall.) I love the way the cave forms the irregular frame, the way we peer over Frank and Joe’s shoulders as if we are Chet or Biff or Phil or Tony or another one of the boys’ loyal chums — stuck very much in the action. The lines that halo around Joe’s flashlight indicate its revealing beam, while suggesting a bit of anxious quivering in Joe’s hand. He stables himself on his right in the foreground, but his left side remains vulnerable to the snarling wolf pack. All we see of Frank is the back of his head, but we can see from his posture that he is alert, and no doubt formulating a plan. Frank always brought the patience and thoughtfulness to counter Joe’s impetuous demeanor. I don’t recall how they got out of this particular scrape, but I am sure it was quick, daring, and the product of teamwork. Nice going, boys.
This is a great one and a great appreciation of it. I think it is only right to point out that it misrepresents wolf culture. Never Cry Wolf: it’s not just for little boys anymore.