Hardy Boys Adventures: The Battle of Bayport by Franklin W. Dixon. Franklin W. Dixon is the pen name used by a variety of different authors who were part of a team that wrote The Hardy Boys novels for the Stratemeyer Syndicate (now owned by Simon & Schuster). Dixon was also the writer attributed for the Ted Scott Flying Stories series, published by Grosset and Dunlap. Canadian author Charles Leslie McFarlane is believed to have written the first sixteen Hardy Boys books, but worked to a detailed plot and character outline for each story. The outlines are believed to originated with Edward Stratemeyer, with later books outlined by his daughters Edna C. Squier and Harriet Adams. Edward and Harriet also edited all books in the series through the mid-1960s. Other writers of the original books include MacFarlane's wife Amy, John Button, Andrew E. Svenson, as well as Adams herself; most of the outlines were done by Adams and Svenson. A number of other writers and editors were recruited to revise the outlines and update the texts in line with a more modern sensibility, starting in the late 1950s. The principal author for the Ted Scott books was John W. Duffield A reenactment battle marches into Bayport in this Hardy Boys adventure—a fresh approach to a classic series. Bayport goes back in time when a Revolutionary War-era battleship is discovered, along with a treasure trove of historic artifacts. To celebrate, the town stages a reenactment of the historic Battle of Bayport, complete with antique artillery, canons, and tricorn hats. Even Frank and Joe Hardy are decked out in full Colonial costume, fighting over freedom and taxes on opposite sides of the battle line. But things get a little too real when a stray shot leaves Bayport’s biggest benefactor, Don Sterling, without a pulse. Wait a minute weren’t those muskets supposed to be unloaded? And even though the Hardy Boys have technically retired from solving mysteries, they can’t help but get involved, especially when a favorite teacher turns out to be a prime suspect. Is someone trying to frame Mr. Lazin? And who would want Don Sterling dead? Murder by reenactment is one the Hardys haven’t seen before, but don’t think they’re not up for the challenge!