Book Review: '20,000 Leagues Under The Sea' by Jules Verne

Book: 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea
Author: Jules Verne
Genre: Science Fiction

Excerpt:

While I was dreaming about all this and trying to fix in my memory all the details of this grandiose landscape, Captain Nemo was leaning on a mossy slab of stone without moving, and as if petrified in mute ecstasy. Was he thinking of those generations long since dead and asking them the secret of human destiny? Was it here that this strange man came to steep himself in history and relive the life of ancient times, he who would have nothing to do with the world around him? How much I would have given to know his thoughts, to share and understand them!

--20,000 Leagues Under The Sea page 268

Synopsis:

On an adventure to rid the seas of a strange beast, three companions find themselves held prisoner aboard a scientific wonder: the Nautilus, piloted by the mysterious and embittered Captain Nemo. As they join Captain Nemo on his wanderings in the oceans of the world, the prisoners realize that this strange man is hiding something from them.

Positives:

1. I absolutely love Jules Verne's writing style. He uses such strong words and has such great skill, and yet you can see that he's also very knowledgeable in science, geography, and numbers. This is one of the books where you can enjoy it as well as learn from it.

2. The plot is very exciting, not to mention completely unique. Actually, it's a fairly simple story line, but it's also very strong.

3. The characters, especially Captain Nemo are very deep, complex, and well-developed.

Negatives:

1. There is a little bit of violence. I really was not disturbed at all, but there's a good description of a fatal wound as well as some fights with sea-creatures.

2. Although I don't remember any actual swear-words, it is mentioned that some of the characters swear vividly.

Conclusion:

If you ever make a list of 100 books to read before you die, this should be close to the top. Not only is it classic (published in 1870, I believe), but it's fascinating. Definitely read this book.

Age Suggestion:

Approximately 12+ just for the fact that the length requires a fairly long attention span and determination.

Rating:

***** (5) out of ***** (5) stars

Yours without wax,

Izori