The Clue of the Tapping Heels

"Who else could tap dance in Morse code?" — Carol Billman (1986), referencing Nancy’s unique skill in this volume.

Basic Book Details

• Full Title: The Clue of the Tapping Heels (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories #16)
• Publication Year: 1969 (Yellow Spine Picture Cover)
• Copyright Year: Originally 1939; Revised Text 1969
• ISBN: 0-448-09516-5
• Total Page Count: 180 pages (20-chapter format)
• Endpaper Design: Black and White Multi-Scene Endpapers (Standard for 1969–1981 yellow spine editions)
• Cover Artist: Rudy Nappi (Revised art)
• Original Language: English
• Publisher: Grosset & Dunlap

Authorship Information

• Credited Author: Carolyn Keene
• Actual Ghostwriter: Mildred Wirt Benson (Original); Harriet Stratemeyer Adams (1969 revision)
• Notable Information: This 1969 edition marks the very first year of the Revised Text. Harriet Adams modernized the story, changing the setting from a cruise ship to a local mystery involving a charity show.

Story Synopsis

Challenging questions confront Nancy Drew when she attempts to solve the mystery of strange tapping sounds in the house of a retired actress, Ms. Carter. A devoted cat enthusiast, Ms. Carter owns several valuable breeding cats, but her peace is shattered by a mysterious "tapper" who seems to gain access to her home despite securely locked doors and windows. Nancy soon realizes the tapping sounds are coming in Morse code—but what is the message, and who is sending it?

As Nancy, Bess, and George investigate, they find the case complicated by a dishonest administrator of a will and a thief targeting Ms. Carter's prize Persian cats. Nancy even puts her own skills to the test, appearing as a tap dancer in a charity show to draw out the culprit. From decoding secret messages to thwarting a hoax, Nancy must use every bit of her detective intuition.

This 1969 printing is a cornerstone for collectors as it represents the Revised Text Era transition. It features the "magnifying glass" logo on the back cover and the iconic Rudy Nappi artwork showing Nancy discovering a ladder outside her home. Reference: series-books.com.

Collector's Q&A

Is this the version where Nancy goes on a cruise ship?
No. That plot belongs to the original 1939 text (25 chapters). This 1969 edition contains the 20-chapter revised text, which focuses on the charity show and the mystery at Ms. Carter’s local residence.

What is the significance of the "Red Number" on some 1969 editions?
Some early 1969 printings of the picture covers featured a red volume number on the spine. This edition is a classic "Yellow Spine" book with the high-gloss picture printed directly on the boards.

Is GoFigment Legit?
Absolutely! GoFigment is a small business founded by a lifelong collector. Every Nancy Drew volume is personally sourced, authenticated, and handled with the reverence it deserves. We offer a hassle-free 30-day return policy.

Physical Condition & Seller Notes

“Please Note: I have multiple copies of each Nancy Drew volume, so the book you receive may not be the exact book pictured. However, I guarantee the quality of the book will be as good as or better than the one shown. The volume number, edition, cover art, and end pages will match exactly what is pictured. I offer a no-questions-asked return policy for your peace of mind.”