The Mystery of the Tolling Bell

"It's a mystery, and you know how I feel about mysteries. I simply can't rest until I've solved them!" — Nancy Drew

Basic Book Details

• Full Title: The Mystery of the Tolling Bell (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories #23)
• Publication Year: Originally 1946; This format printed circa 1962-1968
• Copyright Year: 1946
• ISBN: 448095238
• Total Page Count: 210 pages
• Endpaper Design: Blue Multi-Scene (Featuring 22 distinct vignettes from books #1-#35)
• Cover Artist: Rudy Nappi
• Original Language: English
• Publisher: Grosset & Dunlap

Authorship Information

• Credited Author: Carolyn Keene
• Actual Ghostwriter: Mildred Wirt Benson (Original); Revised by Harriet Stratemeyer Adams
• Notable Information: This edition features the Revised Text, which tightened the narrative pace for mid-century readers while maintaining the classic atmosphere.

Story Synopsis

Nancy, Bess, and George travel to the rugged coast of Maine to help a friend whose family has been swindled out of their fortune. Upon arriving in the seaside town of Charlottesville, they are greeted by the eerie, unexplained tolling of a bell from a nearby cave—a sound that locals believe signals impending doom.

As Nancy digs deeper into the mystery of the "Tolling Bell," she discovers a sophisticated ring of con artists and a secret cave network used for more than just hiding treasure. From perilous cliffside encounters to deciphering cryptic messages, Nancy must use her sharp intellect and courage to unmask the villains.

This volume is a prime example of the 1960s Yellow Spine Era. Distinctive features for this specific printing include the Blue Multi-Scene endpapers. The back cover features the classic "Tree" silhouette, where Nancy is seen peering from behind a trunk. Reference: series-books.com.

Collector's Q&A

Does this book have the original 25 chapters or the revised 20 chapters?
This yellow spine edition contains the 20-chapter revised text. These versions were updated to increase the pace of the story and are the versions most nostalgic readers remember.

How can I identify if this is the "Blue Multi-Scene" version mentioned?
Upon opening the front cover, you will see a repeating pattern of 22 different small blue-and-white illustrations. This is the "Blue Multi-Scene" pattern characteristic of the 1962-1968 era.

Is GoFigment Legit?
Absolutely! GoFigment is a small business owned and operated by collectors. My commitment to you is simple: I only offer items I would proudly display in my own collection. Every piece is personally sourced, authenticated, and handled with the reverence it deserves.

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.”