The Stratemeyer syndicate used the pseudonym Victor Appleton when writing several series for boys including Tom Swift. Edward Stratemeyer did the original outlines for the series, which was published between 1910 and 1941. Tom Swift was a genius inventor. He specialized in technology especially related to transportation. Later the series was followed by the Tom Swift Jr. series. Tom Swift in the City of Gold, or Marvelous adventures underground tells how Tom, Mr. Damon, Eradicate Sampson, and Tom's father follow a map in Mexico to find an underground city made of gold. They hope to make their fortune but are lucky to escape with their lives. This 1912 book is recommended for grades 5 through adult.